CHAPTER 21

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The ball was in full swing with excited synchronised dances from guests hoping to gain favour from the distracted royals on their thrones.

Informal business meetings were being held between officials in the corners of the hall and well-wishers continued to make their way up to the table, at the bottom of the steps of the royal platform, to present their gifts to the engaged couple.

The bored prince rolled his eyes at his equally unimpressed mother as they watched endless baskets being placed on the table,

"What is that?" Queen Eleanor snarled as she observed a fruit basket being presented by a nervous guest.

Apples, pears, plums and strawberries filled the large wicker basket and Jasmine's eyes lit up for the first time that evening.

"Fruit are a symbol to promote a fruitful life together. A beautiful sentiment don't you think?" Lili posed as she nodded her thanks to the timid woman.

Eleanor scoffed at the tradition and waved her hand impatiently for the next guest to present their gift.

"Continue" one of the gift guards' ordered nervously from the right side of the table as Lili gave a sigh of weariness and nodded to the crowd in agreement.

A line quickly formed with more guests placing their presents in front of the royals and the visiting queen and prince inspected every one of them with an impassive glare.

"A basket of eggs?" The prince laughed at the offended guest.

Lili quickly interjected,

"Eggs are a sign of fertility".

"Which ones determine a male heir?" Eleanor quickly asked with a superior smirk on her face.

"It doesn't work like that. The eggs are just a sign of fertility and encourage a healthy birth. It doesn't determine the gender of the child" Lili explained dryly.

Eleanor sneered at the explained and hastily waved her hand again,

"Next!" She commanded and the shocked queen and princess gave Jack a look of despair

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"Next!" She commanded and the shocked queen and princess gave Jack a look of despair.

Jack returned a wary smile and continued to discuss future plans with King William.

Jasmine shuddered at the thought of being any closer to the prince, let alone having his child as she gave the guest a weak smile to thank her and allowed her to move back to the party to avoid any more rudeness from the visiting queen.

More gifts were presented to the awkward couple with baskets of eggs, coins and fruit adorning the long wooden table.

"So, we have fruit, eggs, a few coins, what else should I expect? A magical elephant?" The prince asked sarcastically.

Lili rolled her eyes at the spoilt prince and continued to distract his abrupt mother from upsetting any more of the generous guests.

Jasmine observed her fiancé with loathing and gritted her teeth,

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