Page 30 of Don’t Look Down

We pause for a moment to allow them to get their shot. After all, that is what tonight is about, as my mother reminded me when she came over for tea this morning. Tonight is where rumors will begin to spread about our relationship. The foundation to be set and buzz to be created. Lock starts forward again, and by the small tap he gives my hand, I know I did well.

That familiar need to please, and the praise that comes with it, floods through me and restores my confidence.

Lock leads me inside through the main doors. Waiters bustle around with trays full of champagne, wine, and the gimlet, the King’s favorite drink. Others carry trays of hors d’oeuvres, most of which sit untouched by guests.

The hallway to the grand ballroom is well decorated. Drapes and banners in various shades of gold and silver lead the way. Florals are practically bursting on every available surface, and music from live performers drifts into the space.

“This is amazing,” I say, taking everything in with wide eyes. “It must’ve taken days to decorate.”

“I heard they’ve been here since Tuesday,” Lock says, barely glancing around. His focus is straight ahead as we approach the ballroom.

And within a few steps, I realize why.

His Majesty King Harold and Her Majesty Queen Hilda stand to the left, just beyond the large, arching entrance. The King is dressed in his military uniform, the red jacket off-setting the white of his hair. Meanwhile, the Queen is dazzling in a gown so pale blue it’s almost white, but the rhinestones glimmer with every minute movement. Her long blonde and gray hair is swept back in an elegant up-do.

When she spots her eldest son and I approaching, her entire face lights up.

“There’s our boy!” She extends her arms, waiting for Lock to give her a hug. I drop my hand to allow him to do so, before he inclines his head to his father.

“Happy birthday, Father. I’m pleased I was able to make it.”

His Majesty claps a hand on his shoulder, the corner of his mouth turning up ever so slightly into what I think he means to be a smile. “As I am, Son.” He then turns his attention to me.

I’ve met the King more times than I can count over the years, but I’ve never grown used to the weight of his stare. His eyes are intense, probing, like he can see right through you and down to your core. They’re not unkind, but they’re not friendly either.

They’re actually a similar shade of blue as Beau’s.

I wipe him out of memory, worried the King will be able to see that I’m thinking about one son while standing here with another.

I curtsy deeply. When Mrs. Kleine fit my dress, we ensured I’d be able to move freely enough in it to do so. “Thank you for inviting me to your birthday celebration, Your Majesty. It’s a wonderful gathering.” I then do the same to the Queen, and add, “You look beautiful, Your Majesty. My mother will love your dress.”

“Thank you for joining my son,” he says. When I straighten, he looks between the two of us. “I know he was disappointed I’ve been keeping him busy, and therefore away from the efforts you are doing with Caulfield-Penner.”

“I hope Beauford hasn’t been giving you too much trouble.” The Queen grins conspiratorially, and I do my best to keep a neutral face.

“It’s been going very well,” I tell them. “Juliette’s team has been amazing the entire way.”

“Pleased to hear.”

“Did everything go to plan today in your meeting with Lorkin Global?” the King asks Lock.

He raises his chin a notch higher. “Yes, I think you’ll be pleased with the outcome. I asked Edwin for a few minutes with you next week to discuss it.”

I hear the unspoken words.

It’s not for us to discuss here, in front of me.

Or maybe not just me, but Hilda too.

Another couple approaches behind us, waiting to greet the King and Queen. Lock takes notice and grabs my hand. Not even the heir can take more time than others in the receiving line. “We’ll talk more later.”

We both bow, but before we can step away, Hilda says, “Briar, dear?”

“Yes, Ma’am?”

She gestures at me from head to toe. “You look radiant. My son is very lucky to have you on his arm this evening.”

I blush and incline my head. “Thank you.”