Miss Bridgertons Prince • 𝑩𝒓𝒊𝒅𝒈𝒆𝒓𝒕𝒐𝒏

The Queens Order

Bridgerton

SEASON FOUR
CHAPTER FIVE

'The Queens Order'

The attendant approached, bowing slightly. "Prince Theodore, Miss Bridgerton, Her Majesty requests your presence in the throne room once more."

Without a word, Theodore and Elodie followed the attendant back through the palace corridors, the weight of their unresolved conflict pressing heavily on them. The grandeur of Buckingham Palace, with its opulent decorations and regal atmosphere, did little to soothe their seething emotions.

As they re-entered the throne room, Queen Charlotte observed them with keen interest. "I trust your walk in the gardens was... enlightening."

Elodie and Theodore exchanged a brief, hostile glance before turning their attention to the Queen. "Your Majesty," they said in unison, their voices strained.

The Queen's eyes flickered between them, her expression thoughtful. "It seems there is much unresolved between you. But let us not dwell on that now. I have a task that requires both of your cooperation."

Elodie stiffened, her mind racing with the implications. Forced proximity with Theodore was the last thing she wanted. Theodore, on the other hand, seemed equally displeased, his jaw clenched tightly.

Queen Charlotte continued, "You will be my representatives at the upcoming royal ball. It is imperative that you present a united front, regardless of your personal feelings."

Elodie bit back a retort, forcing a polite smile. "Of course, Your Majesty. We will do our best."

Theodore nodded stiffly. "We will not disappoint you, Your Majesty."

The Queen's gaze lingered on them for a moment longer before she dismissed them. "Very well. You are excused."

As they left the throne room, the tension between them was palpable. Elodie could feel Theodore's presence beside her like a dark cloud, their mutual hatred simmering just below the surface.

Theodore broke the silence first, his voice tight with frustration. "I suppose we have no choice but to endure each other's company for the sake of the Queen."

Elodie shot him a cold look. "Endure is the right word, Your Highness. Let's make one thing clear: this cooperation is purely for appearances. Do not mistake it for anything more."

Theodore's eyes flashed with anger. "Believe me, Miss Bridgerton, the last thing I want is to spend any more time with you than absolutely necessary."

Elodie felt her temper flare. "The feeling is mutual, Theodore. I cannot wait for this charade to be over."

They walked in silence, each step heavy with their shared animosity. As they neared the exit of the palace, Elodie couldn't resist one last jab. "Perhaps you should work on controlling your tongue, Your Highness. It might save you from future embarrassments."

Theodore stopped abruptly, turning to face her. "And perhaps you should work on not being so quick to judge, Elodie. Not everything is as black and white as you seem to think."

Elodie stepped closer, her eyes blazing. "I judge based on what I see and hear, Theodore. And what I have seen and heard from you is nothing but arrogance and disdain."

Theodore's expression hardened. "Then perhaps you should open your eyes a little wider. You might be surprised by what you find."

They stood there, locked in a silent battle of wills, their hatred for each other burning brightly. It was clear that any attempt at reconciliation was futile. For now, they would have to put on a facade of cooperation for the Queen's sake, but their true feelings remained unchanged.