Chapter 0201
Chapter 0201
Ella POV
The castle was even more incredible than I had imagined. Alexander and I arrived early Saturday morning, just as planned. Though it was only a twenty–minute drive from his office in the capital, it felt like we had been transported to another world.
Surrounded by dense forest and perfectly manicured gardens, the castle looked like something out of a storybook. It was majestic, with towering spires and intricate stonework that seemed to whisper secrets of a long ago time.
I stared up at the high windows, my mouth hanging open in unabashed awe. I couldn’t help it–seeing the castle in person was breathtaking.
“It is impressive,” Alexander admitted, though there was a begrudging tone in his voice. “And it’s certainly going to impress at our wedding.”
“I think it might influence my dress choice,” I said, my gaze fixed on the tallest spire. “I might need to go for a princess dress this time.”
Alexander’s lips curled into a faint smirk. “I have to admit, it’s hard to picture you in something like that.”
I laughed, shaking my head. “Not so long ago, I wore nothing but frills and sparkles. It’s funny to think you can’t imagine it now–it’s a good reminder of how much I’ve changed.”
His expression softened as he regarded me, but he didn’t comment further. Instead, he extended his arm toward the grand entrance ahead. “Shall we?”
Taking a steadying breath, I said, “Lead the way,” and we started down the cobblestone path toward the towering front doors.
We didn’t even get a chance to knock before the doors swung open, revealing Christopher Slater in yet another exquisitely tailored suit. His grin was as wide and charming as ever.
“Punctual as always,” he said to Alexander before turning to me. He extended his hand, but when I reached to shake it, he bent down and kissed my knuckles instead.
I was slightly amused–it only confirmed Alexander’s earlier warning about how today would go. “It’s nice to see you again,” I said graciously. “Thank you so much for opening your home to us.”
“Yes, of course,” Christopher replied. “Now, come in, come in. There’s so much to show you.”
He stepped aside, allowing us to enter, and closed the doors behind us. The entranceway was vast and echoing, with a vaulted ceiling that seemed to stretch endlessly upward.
“So, this is where your guests will arrive,” Christopher said, gesturing grandly. “From here, they’ll be led into the main hall. I can set up a coat check here since it will be cold. Your guests will need a place for their outerwear, and I’m sure you won’t want bulky jackets cluttering up the photos of the ceremony.”
“I’ll make sure to bring staff to handle that,” Alexander said smoothly.
“There’s storage here that’s currently unused,” Christopher continued, pointing to a side door. “I can have some clothing racks and hangers brought down.”
“Perfect,” I said, smiling.
Christopher returned my smile warmly before stepping ahead to open a pair of tall oak double doors with a theatrical flourish. “Once they’ve checked their coats, your guests will enter this area,” he said, gesturing inside.
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Chapter 0201
+25 BONUS
The room was breathtaking–large and elegant, with walls adorned by stunning paintings and a glittering crystal chandelier hanging overhead.
“I think this will be ideal for a cocktail hour,” Christopher explained. “People can mingle, enjoy a drink, and have some hors d’oeuvres while they wait for the ceremony to begin.”
“You’ve put a lot of thought into this,” I said, genuinely impressed.
“Yes,” Alexander agreed. “Considering you don’t typically host events here, it’s interesting how thoroughly you’ve accounted for the details.”
Christopher gave a self–assured smile. “We’ve filmed several movies here, and many of those films included elaborate party scenes. I know what looks good on camera.”
“That’s an interesting insight,” I said, intrigued.
“This will really be your chance to feel like a movie star,” Christopher said with a warm smile directed at me. “I must say, you certainly look the part. And I’m sure whatever you do with your hair and makeup will only add to that.”
“That’s kind of you to say,” I replied politely, feeling a little self–conscious under his gaze.
“Have you chosen a dress yet?” he asked, his tone curious. I’d love a little insight into what to expect.”
Chapter 0202
Chapter 0202
