She scanned the jubilant crowd and unexpectedly spotted some familiar faces. In the corner opposite the dance floor, the young master of the Selberg family was chatting with a smile, while Georgiana stood nearby. Amelia and another boy often seen with Albert sat on the sofa.
As if sensing her gaze, Albert turned and politely raised his glass in greeting.
Wilhelmina nudged Cairns with her elbow, “Why are university department people here?”
“Who’s here?” Cairns looked over and saw the group. “Oh, it’s them. Seems like they had to come to the senior department to find girls.”
Angela leaned in, “Isn’t that Young Master Albert? How could the Queen allow him in a place like this? The nurses from logistics and medical school would tear him apart.”
Wilhelmina sneered, “He’s one of Anna Belle’s potential fiancé candidates, not her dog.”
“I love your venom, Vivi,” Angela giggled. “Let’s go dance.”
“You and Cairns go,” Wilhelmina replied, “I’m tired and want to have a few drinks.”
Sensing her slight mood, Angela didn’t insist and pulled the reluctant Cairns onto the dance floor.
Wilhelmina squeezed through the crowd to the bar. The bartender nodded at her and poured her a Tequila. She swirled the ice cubes and drank leisurely. Angela waved to her from the dance floor, and she raised her hand in response.
Nearby boys constantly looked at her. Even without the title of duchess, Wilhelmina was vibrant, and her hesitant demeanor attracted more male attention.
Wilhelmina, however, was feeling low-spirited. A junior from the Hansberg family had stirred memories of someone she missed.
For five years, she had corresponded with Hansberg, who had been unable to return to Odin due to Anna Belle’s suppression and challenging border missions. Two years ago, when she heard he was seriously injured, she almost rushed to see him but ultimately did not go because Anna Belle was unmarried and had no heir. Wilhelmina felt trapped in Odin, unable to leave.
She could not attend her grandmother’s seventieth birthday party or the school’s long-distance study trip. Even as a duchess, she was not free.
Just as she was about to have her third drink, a hand stopped her.
Albert stood before Wilhelmina and addressed the bartender, “Xiu, change it to juice. This lady cannot drink anymore.” The bartender, already concerned for Wilhelmina, complied and poured a glass of pineapple juice.
Wilhelmina took a sip, glancing at Albert. “Where are your friends?”
“Nick sent Georgiana and the others back. The girls found it boring.”
“Oh, that was Georgiana!” Wilhelmina sarcastically remarked. “I almost didn’t recognize her without her wig.”
Albert laughed. “Why aren’t you dancing?”
“I don’t want to be photographed with messy hair, then have ‘Empire Times’ say the R Duchess is crazy from heartbreak, while ‘Wheat Field’ claims the Queen’s cousin is taking drugs at a party.”
Albert chuckled, “You’re so interesting, Willy.”
“I’d rather you didn’t think so, Young Master Albert.” Wilhelmina’s gaze was icy. “And I hope you will address me as Your Highness.”
Albert suppressed his laughter, maintaining a gentle and elegant smile. He was now much taller than five years ago, a complete young man.
He was studying in the Political Warfare Department of Til University, in his final year. This tall, fit young man was known as a top student, particularly in shooting and air combat, maintaining the best scores. His studies served as a reserve before joining the Air Force after graduation and eventually taking the marshal’s seal from his father.
“Wheat Field” described Albert von Selberg as an excellent soldier who looked more like a lawyer. Handsome and refined, he had a warm smile that disarmed others.
Wilhelmina’s relationship with him was neutral.
Anna Bell, surrounded by numerous suitors, favored Albert, who had never proposed to her. Wilhelmina maintained her distance, knowing no one dared to pursue the man the Queen had an interest in.
William Minna looked disappointed and said, “I finally understand why those girls are so crazy about you, even with Annabel around, Young Master Albert. You can quote romance novels seriously without making it cringe-worthy. You don’t even find yourself cheesy.”
Albert couldn’t help but laugh, “Those who praise you for being obedient clearly haven’t tasted your venomous tongue.”
William Minna smiled faintly, “I don’t kiss people casually.” She leaned in close, and the scent of wine mixed with perfume filled the air. Perhaps due to the alcohol, she shed her restraint, her smile charming and eyes seductive.
Albert, taken aback, reached out to support her swaying body, but she suddenly turned and ran lightly across the street, her silver-white dress flashing in the night like a ghost.
“I’ll take you back!” Albert began to chase after her, but his shoulder was grabbed by a hand.
“No need to trouble you,” Kerns said with a drunk smile that carried a warning, “If you don’t want Annabel to give her a hard time, keep your distance.”
Albert slapped his hand away, and they stared at each other coldly for a moment.
Angela, standing nearby, shivered. “Gentlemen, either separate or kiss, but don’t block the main road.”
Kerns took a step back. “Let’s go, Angela.”
Angela walked away, looking back worriedly. The young heir of the Selleberg family stood under the streetlight, hands in his pockets, looking casual and elegant.
He looked up at the sky, a gesture that William Minna often did.
Chapter 28
May 24th was the Empire’s National Day, and the school was closed. William Minna and Kerns returned to the palace for the royal celebration.
As in previous years, the Emperor gave a public speech at the Hall of Heroes, followed by a party for social elites.
Queen Annabel appeared on the Hall’s balcony in a light pink pearl-studded dress and a crown, waving to the cheering crowd below. At almost twenty-two, five years of ruling had erased her childishness, replaced by a hard gaze and a cold smile. The media criticized her as unapproachable, while “Imperial Times” defended her nobility, mocking the “Wheat Field” people as country bumpkins.
During the queen’s speech, William Minna and Kerns stood beside her, often appearing in the corners of holographic images, providing gossip for bored listeners. Annabel’s speech of goodwill was met with loud applause, and she held her head high, smiling by the handrail.
The evening party was notable for the palace’s new chef, who made delicious roasted chicken wings. Annabel changed into a royal blue dress, holding a wine glass and chatting with guests.
She interacted only with nobles and senate members, creating a subtle atmosphere. When a Progressive Party official approached her, she offered only a cold glance.
“A real iceberg,” Kerns muttered.
“Yet so many ships are still rushing to crash into her,” William Minna laughed. “Strange, I don’t see Schneider. Did the Liberal Party change leadership?”
“The election is in the second half of the year. He’s not here.”
“Seems the rumors are true,” William Minna said, glancing at Annabel. “The ‘Wheat Field’ has been increasingly critical of her. I guess they had a conflict.”
In recent years, the relationship between Wilhelmina and Annabel had soured. They were friendly in public but rarely spoke in private, especially after Annabel prohibited Wilhelmina from visiting the injured Hans Borg two years ago.
For Wilhelmina, Annabel’s approach could only signal trouble, which she quickly confirmed.
“My dear, you’re here!” Annabel greeted her warmly. “Let me introduce you to a friend. This is the Grand Duke of Luxembourg. Your Highness, this is my cousin, the Duchess of Roxston.”
A young man standing next to Annabel bowed to Wilhelmina. She curtsied back, filled with doubts.
