Ch. 18th Birthday 70 18th Birthday 70

Chapter 70 

(Lily’s POV) 

Today was the day we’ve all been waiting for; our graduation. 

After all the pressure, pain, and chaos of the past months, we made it. We were done with school, and tonight wasn’t just about celebrating that… It was about something even bigger. 

Zion and I had decided that we would finally let the world know about us. 

My heart fluttered at the thought. 

The graduation hall sparkled with golden chandeliers and silver streamers hanging from the ceiling. The sound of cheerful chatter and bursts of laughter floated through the air as different parents and nobles arrived in sleek cars, dressed in luxury and importance. 

But when the King and Queen’s entourage pulled up, silence fell. 

The doors parted as their guards stepped in first. Then came the King and Queen, dressed in full royal attire. The Queen wore a deep maroon gown with intricate gold detailing that caught the light with every step, while the King’s robe carried the kingdom’s crest on his chest. People stood immediately, bowing low in reverence. Their presence filled the room; quiet, and commanding. 

They were guided to the seats at the very front, surrounded by royal guards. 

I stood with Aria, Dev, and Tobe near the backstage entrance. We were all buzzing with excitement. 

Aria kept adjusting the bow in her hair. She wore an emerald gown that hugged her body and flowed at the bottom. Tobe wore a sleek black suit, and Dev; a tailored navy–blue suit with crisp white shirt. 

I wore a red velvet gown that shimmered slightly under the lights. It was soft, off–shoulder, and flowed down to my ankles. Zion told me I looked like his Queen. 

Zion. 

My mate was pacing a little behind us, his hand gripping the folded paper containing his speech. His graduation robe sat neatly over his dark suit, his hair slicked back. He looked… matured, confident and breathtaking. 

He noticed me looking and smiled before resuming his quiet rehearsal. 

The school band started playing a soft melody. 

“That’s our cue,” Dev whispered. 

We lined up in a single file, filing into the grand hall. A wave of cheers and applause rose as our families stood to welcome us. I spotted Aunt Lamia, beaming with pride, and the King and Queen clapping gently. 

We took our seats, when Principal Thamior walked up to the podium. 

“Good evening, everyone,” he began firmly. “What an honor it is to stand before such greatness; our students, their families, and our esteemed guests. This academy was built on legacy, and growth, and tonight, we celebrate that…” 

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Chapter 70 

He went on, weaving the school’s story into his welcome speech. When he finished, he nodded toward the royal seats. 

“It’s with great pride that I invite His Majesty to say a few words.” 

The King rose to a wave of applause. He stepped forward, taking the microphone, and said, “Congratulations to the new graduates. I commend your resilience and dedication in achieving this feat. On behalf of all parents, we are proud of every one of you.” The room buzzed excitedly as he returned to his seat. 

Principal Thamior returned with a smile. “And now, the moment we’ve all been waiting for. This year’s valedictorian, best in class for both grades and leadership–Prince Zion!” 

Students burst into cheers. I clapped, my heart racing… His parents clapped the loudest, even Zelda was smiling brightly. 

Zion walked up the steps slowly, bowed to the crowd, and began his speech. 

“Before I begin, I’d like to confess something… I thought being a prince meant I’d get out of exams. Apparently, even royalty isn’t spared multiple–choice questions.” 

The room burst into laughter, easing the tension as he continued. 

“Graduation isn’t just an ending, it’s a beginning. We walked into this academy as children, unsure of ourselves. We leave as leaders. Not because we were perfect, but because we grew together…” 

His voice deepened slightly. “We’ve fought battles in books and battles in life. We’ve lost, we’ve gained, we’ve loved, and we’ve changed. And now, as we step out into the world, we carry not only what we’ve learned but who we’ve become.” He paused, letting his words settle in our hearts. “So here’s to every long night, every broken heart; every risk, and every triumph. Here’s to us… the class that rose.” 

The room was silent for a moment before thunderous applause erupted. 

And then he paused. 

“I have something important to share with you all,” he began. “It’s about my true mate…” 

But before he could continue, the sound of heels echoed on the stage. A second microphone was already in Celeste’s hand. 

She was already saying “How about I share it instead?” she asked, smiling widely, “But first I want to take this moment to honor His Majesty, Her Majesty, Principal Thamior, my wonderful parents and my teachers…” 

The room went still. 

She walked across the stage and stood beside Zion, then slowly reached out and brushed her hand along his jaw. 

“I’m pregnant for the crowned Prince,” she smiled. 

The words slammed into me like a whip. 

Zion blinked. “What-” 

But the cheers were deafening. Everyone leapt to their feet, whistling. Applause thundered. 

“Celestine is carrying an heir to the throne!” someone shouted. 

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Chapter 70 

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“She’s definitely going to be Queen,” another whispered. 

Then Celestine added sweetly, “And since Zion and I will be getting married soon. I already know who I want my chief bridesmaid to be…” 

She turned with a fake smile “Lily, because after all, she’s his adoptive sister.” 

My heart shattered. 

This wasn’t what we planned. 

Zion said he wanted me to have his children, that we were going public. He said he loved me! 

I couldn’t breathe. I couldn’t think. 

I stood; my eyes burning, my chest twisting… It felt like I’d been stabbed over and over. I couldn’t help the tears that streamed down my cheeks. I broke into a run, not caring how I looked in front of everyone. 

I just needed to get away. 

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