Apologize to me!

"She must apologize to me first!" Luciana declared. 

Everyone watched the princess consort in shock at her audacious words. Even the empress dowager, who was heartbroken about her cat, was trying to reel in her dissatisfaction at the first Princess because the emperor had spoken but she was still so bold.

Luciana realized everyone's gazes were fixed on her but held her chin high with a look of determination on her face. Nicholas came to stand behind her and his hand gently wrapped around her waist, resting on her flat belly. She had nearly protested and had almost pulled away from him, but she forced her to remain in his arms. 

It wasn't because his grip was strong, but instead, it was because he held her so gently as if she might break that even though everyone looked like they were judging her, she didn't mind. 

She loved his unbiased support and protection too much to push him away. His support was all she needed.