A Royal Season

The dance of the hearts

As the night wore on, the grand ballroom buzzed with excitement, the glittering chandeliers casting a soft, golden glow over the assembled guests. Princess Nora stood beside Benedict, her heart still fluttering from their earlier conversation. She turned to him, her voice soft yet filled with a quiet confidence.

"Benedict, would you accompany me to pay my respects to Queen Charlotte?" she asked, her eyes shining with warmth.

Benedict smiled, offering her his arm. "It would be my honor, Princess."

Together, they made their way through the crowd, weaving between groups of nobility and gentry until they reached the raised platform where Queen Charlotte sat, regal and composed. As they approached, they both bowed deeply, showing the utmost respect to the monarch who presided over this grand event.

"Your Majesty," Princess Nora began, her voice steady yet filled with reverence, "I am deeply honored to attend your magnificent ball. It is a splendid evening, and I hope to prove myself worthy of being the diamond of this season."

Queen Charlotte's discerning gaze softened slightly as she regarded the young princess. "It is indeed a wonderful night, Princess Nora. You have graced us with your presence, and we are pleased to have you here."

Nora felt a wave of relief wash over her, but before she could say more, the Queen's attention shifted to Benedict.

"Lord Benedict," Queen Charlotte said, her tone commanding yet kind, "might I ask you to allow the princess and me a moment alone?"

Benedict nodded graciously, understanding the subtle request. "Of course, Your Majesty." He turned to Nora, gently taking her hand and lifting it to his lips. The soft brush of his kiss sent a shiver through her, and for a moment, the world seemed to pause. "Until later, Princess."

With a final, warm glance, Benedict stepped away, leaving Nora in the presence of the Queen. Once he had gone, Queen Charlotte turned her full attention to the princess, her expression thoughtful.

"Tell me, Princess Nora," Queen Charlotte began, her voice carrying a note of curiosity, "what do you think of Lord Benedict Bridgerton?"

Nora felt her cheeks flush at the question. She had been prepared for many things tonight, but discussing her feelings so openly with the Queen was not one of them. Still, there was something about Queen Charlotte's demeanor that made her feel safe to share her true thoughts.

"Your Majesty," Nora began, her voice tinged with a mix of honesty and shyness, "I must confess, it was love at first sight. Although I have known of him through Eloise, meeting him in person tonight... it was like being struck by something beyond my control. He captivated me from the moment I saw him."

Queen Charlotte's eyes sparkled with amusement, a small smile playing on her lips. "Love at first sight, you say? That is not something to be taken lightly, my dear. Do you think you would wish to marry him?"

Nora's breath caught slightly at the boldness of the question. "I... I am not certain yet, Your Majesty," she admitted, her voice softening. "But perhaps, in the near future, I could see myself considering it. He is unlike anyone I have ever met."

Queen Charlotte nodded, clearly pleased with Nora's candor. "You are wise to be cautious, but also to acknowledge what you feel. Trust your heart, Princess Nora. It will guide you well. I wish you good luck in whatever path you choose."