Before Daphne could even fully process the butterflies in her belly, her family surrounded her. Their expressions of relief, pride, and utter joy were a stark contrast to the shocked whispers of the crowd.
Lord Thomas was the first to reach her, his large arms wrapping around her in a fierce, bone-crushing hug. "My dearest Rose," he murmured, his voice thick with emotion. "I had a feeling he would do something like this. I am so proud of you."
He stepped back just as Lady Elizabeth embraced her, tears of joy streaming down her cheeks. "My daughter, my beautiful Daphne," she whispered, holding her tight. "This is everything I've ever wished for you. The Emperor's most trusted General! I knew it would be a fairytale."
Aidan clapped her on the back, a wide, relieved grin on his face. "I'm so happy for you, little sister. He's been waiting for you for a long, long time." He said whispering the waiting part.
