After the ceremony, the royal couple appeared at city hall in Venus Square, facing the public. This was their first public appearance together since the scandal and Annabel’s assassination incident.
Though the doors to the grand balcony were still closed, cheers from the square faintly filtered through. In the restroom, makeup artists were making final adjustments to the couple’s appearance.
When Queen Wilhelmina declined coffee offered by a female attendant, Prince Albert remarked, “My dear, you seem to have stopped liking coffee recently.” Wilhelmina exchanged a playful glance with Cynthia.
“What’s wrong?” Albert asked, confused. “Is there something I don’t know?”
Cynthia lowered her head and laughed as she walked away. Wilhelmina continued adjusting Albert’s tie.
“Nothing, dear. On a day like this, I don’t need coffee to stay alert.”
“Indeed,” Albert said tenderly, whispering, “I love you like this, my love. I always wonder, can we be even happier?”
Wilhelmina smoothed Albert’s tie.
“I’m pregnant,” she announced, her azure eyes sparkling with happiness.
Albert stood in shock for five seconds before gasping, “Oh God!”
Those who already knew were laughing, while others looked on in confusion.
“Thank God! Is this true? Willy, is this true?” The Prince excitedly grabbed the Queen’s hand.
Wilhelmina nodded, smiling silently.
“This means that I will—” Albert began.
“You will be a father,” she completed.
Cheers erupted as those who understood applauded, while the Archbishop recited blessings and made the sign of the cross.
Albert laughed heartily, his scholarly demeanor forgotten.
“I’m going to be a father! Did you hear that? I’m going to have a child!”
He cupped Wilhelmina’s face and kissed her deeply, mindful of her condition. Wilhelmina laughed, satisfied to see her husband’s jubilance.
Attendants and officials offered congratulations, thrilled to witness this historic moment, while the court photographer captured the scene.
“Thank you, Willy,” Albert embraced her carefully, his voice trembling with joy. “Thank you! You are an incomparable wife. How fortunate I am to have you.”
You have given me the most beautiful things in the world!”
“I thank you too, Albert,” Wilhelmina whispered, “Thank you for your support. No matter what the future holds, you will always be my husband. I love you.”
“I love you too.”
The scheduled time arrived. The guards slowly pulled open the heavy doors facing the balcony.
