Cynthia quickly familiarized herself with the court’s inner workings and the backgrounds of various nobles. Whenever Wilhelmina couldn’t recall a guest’s name or title, Cynthia was able to remind her promptly, often providing useful gossip.
So when the Schneider couple arrived at the venue, Wilhelmina asked joyfully, “I heard that your granddaughter gave birth to a boy the day before yesterday? Congratulations to the distinguished couple on becoming great-grandparents.”
“Thank you, Your Majesty!” Schneider replied happily. “As we grow old, it is inseparable from the joy of new life. We also look forward to hearing good news from you.”
Wilhelmina glanced sideways at Albert, who was talking to Angela, with a slight blush.
“By the way, Mr. Schneider, why don’t I see Lord Hans Borg? I thought he would come with you.”
“Oh, unfortunately, he seems to be held up by an urgent matter,” Schneider explained. “Young people are smart and capable, so I give him a bit more work than I should. The issue is that regarding the disarmament of the Democratic Party, it seems someone has hidden a batch of weapons for personal interests. Hans Borg has gone to handle this. Please don’t worry, Your Majesty, it is a very safe task, and I believe he will be able to come over after finishing.”
“I hope he can arrive before the ball begins,” Wilhelmina forced a smile. “Thank you and your wife. I hope you enjoy today.”
As the Schneider couple left, Wilhelmina’s smile became somewhat dejected.
“Are you alright, Your Majesty?” Cynthia asked in a low voice.
Wilhelmina gave a bitter smile. “You heard everything.”
“I think perhaps Lord Hans Borg has something important to handle.”
“Probably,” she said helplessly.
“What about your first dance?”
“Wait a bit,” she murmured, smoothing her dress. “Just wait a bit more…”
“Your Majesty?”
“It’s nothing.” Wilhelmina gathered herself and smiled enthusiastically at the next guest.
By the time all guests had arrived, she still had not seen the figure she was hoping for. Unable to leave, she kept the master of ceremonies and maids anxious.
Receiving Cynthia’s pleading look, Albert approached Wilhelmina. “Perhaps he is on his way. Let’s go to the dining room and wait for him while eating.”
Realizing her impropriety, Wilhelmina smiled self-deprecatingly and placed her hand on her fiancé’s arm.
