“But isn’t the ball for the public?” she questioned.
I didn’t know if I should run or slowly back into the crowd dancing behind us. I could disappear and find one of those tunnels.
I looked over my shoulder and my heart sang. Brooklyn was here.
Before I could hear another icy exchange, I bowed. “It was wonderful to meet you, Your Majesty.” I looked at Damon. “Brooklyn is here.”
“Go,” he advised. “I’ll find you in a moment.”
“Thank you, Your Grace.” I made sure to curtsy as low as I could without falling over. She may have hated me, but she was still Damon’s mother.
I made myself walk slowly instead of taking off in a full run.
Brooklyn laughed when I reached her. “This is unreal.”
I pulled her into a hug. “You have no idea.”
“You look amazing, by the way. Like an actual princess.”
“I can’t take any credit. I have a royal stylist.”
She rolled her eyes. “Of course you do.”
A server walked up to us with a tray of champagne. “It would be an honor to serve the Royal Consort.”
Brooklyn giggled. “This is crazy.”
We each took a glass.
“Thank you.”
He walked away and we skirted through the crowd to find a corner where we could talk. I had completed my official duties. I needed a few minutes with my best friend.
“I’m so glad you’re here. The queen didn’t exactly warm up to me.”
Brooklyn wrinkled her nose. “Most mothers love you, but they also aren’t forced to.”
“What do you mean?” I was glad to have the champagne. The bubbles danced in the glass.
“She doesn’t have a choice. The entire country watched while she received you. If she dissed you in front of them, she’d look like a bitch. She had to be nice to you. That probably just pissed her off.”
“The rest of them didn’t act like that.” Although, I didn’t have a good read on Dominic.
Brooklyn shrugged. “Yeah, but it’s their brother. Not their first son. My mom is ridiculous when it comes to my brother. You know that. Thomas this. Thomas that. He is the definition of the prodigal son.” She looked up. “Well, until I met these guys.”
I laughed. “Ok, good point. Thomas has always had it easy and your mother never likes the girlfriends. Valid example.”
“I’m sure once the publicity dies down, she’ll like you. How can she hold it against you that you’ve fallen for her son?”
“Brooklyn.”
“Are you saying you haven’t?”
“No, I’m not saying that.”
“Then why don’t you admit it?” she pressed.
“Because do you have any idea how scary and intimidating all of this is? Look at this place. We’re at a ball. A royal ball. And those people behind us are princes and a princess. I have a royal manager. I can’t even pick out clothes without her approval.” I was starting to breathe quickly.