“I’m sorry…” the queen choked, whispering in his ear.
Albert felt his wife’s burning tears drip onto his neck. He reached out with his uninjured hand and embraced Wilhelmina’s trembling body.
“I’m sorry, darling.”
I’m fine, I’m sorry for worrying you…”
Prince Albert was taken to the palace medical room for treatment. His left shoulder was dislocated, and his left foot was fractured, which would inconvenience him for some time.
The earlier argument had dissipated. Wilhelmina sat by her husband’s bed, holding his hand tightly during the doctor’s treatment. Though silent, their connection spoke volumes.
The palace’s orange alert was lifted, guards returned to their posts, and ministers sighed in relief before heading home.
Cynthia, carrying ginger tea, saw Hans Borg smoking in the corner. His handsome face looked lonely and sad in the misty smoke, with a large wedding portrait of Queen Wilhelmina and her consort hanging on the opposite wall.
Feeling nosy, Cynthia approached him.
“Would you like some ginger tea, Mr. Hans Borg?”
Hans Borg turned his head slowly, responding, “They are truly a perfect couple, aren’t they?”
Cynthia glanced at the portrait, which depicted the happy newlyweds—noble, powerful, and envied.
“Smoking too much isn’t good for your health,” Cynthia said. “I hope I haven’t offended you. And thank you for your help today.”
His Majesty needed your comfort.”
“Always happy to serve,” Hans Borg said, extinguishing his cigarette. “I should take my leave. Please convey my regards to His Majesty and the Prince.”
“Of course. Good night, Mr. Hans Borg.” Cynthia curtsied.
She stood at the staircase, watching the young prime minister disappear into the night. For a moment, she almost felt he would never return.
Albert blinked and woke from his sleep.
Gone was the cold, damp grassland, replaced by a warm, dry bed. Someone was sleeping beside him, breathing softly. Her golden hair covered most of her face, with the tip of her slightly reddened nose showing, as if she had just been crying.
This scene was so familiar. He lay injured in bed, and she watched over him anxiously.
Albert leaned over and kissed his wife’s nose tip.
Wilhelmina woke up, saw him, then relaxed, moving closer to his side, resting her head on his chest.
“I’m sorry…” Albert said.
