“Palace officials suggest we hold a ball at City Hall’s Golden Hall,” Wilhelmina said. “Although it might seem a bit showy, this is the first time in history. Seeing the Queen and Prime Minister getting along will help pacify the conservative and radical reformists who are still discontented. What do you think?”
“I think it’s a good idea. Will it be a grand ball?”
“Oh no, certainly not.” Wilhelmina led him out of the audience chamber. “You provide your invitation list, and the royal list is already prepared. It was quite a challenge to cross out irrelevant people!”
Hans Borg smiled. “So it will be an elite ball.”
“I like how you put it,” Wilhelmina nodded. “That’s exactly right. The palace ministry officials will contact your secretary. And, Owen, it’s time to fulfill the promise I made to you years ago.”
Seven years ago, she had declared that one day, she would open the ball with her secretary. Seven years of gathering and separation had brought them to this moment. The secretary had finally become a person of importance, able to publicly hold the queen’s hand on the dance floor.
Hans Borg bowed, cupped the queen’s hand, and respectfully kissed it. “Thank you for this honor. May God bless you, Your Majesty.”
After seeing off Hans Borg, Wilhelmina Minna called Cynthia and asked, “Where is Prince Albert?”
“Your Majesty, he just went to the study. He received a phone call,” Cynthia replied.
Wilhelmina Minna took a deep breath and walked towards the study.
The study door opened, and Albert rushed out, almost colliding with her.
“Albert? What happened?”
“It’s my father!” Albert said anxiously, “He’s had a heart attack.”
“What?” Wilhelmina Minna was shocked. “What now?”
“They’ve taken him to the hospital for emergency treatment. My mother is with him. I can’t let her be alone; I must go with her.”
“Of course!” Wilhelmina Minna nodded urgently. “I’ll go with you!”
“Your Majesty,” Sir Wolf interjected, “The Alfaht envoy couple has already arrived…”
Wilhelmina Minna hesitated.
Albert turned back, put his arm around her shoulder, and kissed her forehead. “Take care of your work first, dear. I’ll be fine.”
Watching her husband’s departing back, Wilhelmina Minna instructed the prince’s attendant, “Neil, take care of the prince and stay in constant contact with me.”
