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~ {Later that night}
Arthur, Elena, and Isabella found themselves at a crowded concert hall. The grand ballet was one of the events of the season, and the lobby of the venue was filled with excited patrons dressed in their finest evening attire. The mood was alive with anticipation as the Bennets made their way through the crowd, politely greeting those around them. The hum of conversation and laughter filled the air, making it difficult to hear one another. Despite the noise, the three of them remained focused, eager to take their seats and experience the artistry on stage.
Isabella scanned the large crowd before spotting Eloise with her family from afar, waving at her. Isabella turned towards her siblings. "Sister, may I go see Eloise?"
Elena followed her vision and saw the Bridgerton girl, meaning other members of her family were there as well. Her heart pace started going faster but she ignored it. "Yes you can, but I want you to come find us when the show begins."
Isabella nodded and made her way towards Eloise as Arthur and Elena started walking around the lobby, arm in arm.
A few minutes later, Arthur noticed a few of the Queen's servants walking towards the siblings. Elena followed her brother's gaze and frowned as they arrived in front of them.
Brimsley suddenly spoke up. "Her majesty requests Miss Bennet's presence and only HER presence." He said, looking at both Elena and Arthur.
She gave her brother an uneasy look before following the servants into the Queen's box that was covered by curtains. Shivered were sent down her spine as she entered, seeing that judgmental and intimidating look she hated so.
"Your majesty." Elena gracefully curtsied when she arrived in front of the queen.
"It should be quite apparent to you, Miss Bennet, why I have requested your presence here." The queen said.
Elena regained her posture and looked up at the woman. "I'm afraid that you are incorrect, your majesty. I am at loss to understand why I have received such an honor."
"I thought you were aware that I am not to be trifled with, Miss Bennet." The queen replied as Elena's anxiety started to grow. "I've heard word that you rejected Lord Hawthorn's proposal and do not intend on finding another husband this season but instead prefer to go on a field trip with your eldest brother, am I wrong?"
"No, ma'am." Elena replied, hiding her hands behind her back as she fiddled with her fingers. "It is true, I do not plan on marrying this year for my own personal reasons. I'm terribly sorry to disappoint you."
Queen Charlotte stayed quiet, glaring at the young woman before her as Elena nervously waited for her to say something. "Yes... you did. But for some reason I find you more intriguing now."
At those words, Elena lifted her eyes up to the queen, only to see her waving her off. She was escorted out of the her majesty's box and left alone in a crowded concert hall.
