The Unlikely Queens

Chapter 7

"You are what, Cecelia?" Johanna says in disbelief.

I gathered my parents and Johanna and Albert in our parlor to tell them my news

"I am moving to Lambridge Palace," I beam. "To be with the king. He wishes to court me."

"Oh, Cecelia" My mother has tears in her eyes as she wraps his arms around me, "My wonderful daughter. I am so, so happy for you. We must get you packed! When are you leaving?"

"The king is sending attendants to help me pack, Mother. And he would like me to begin moving in at the end of this week."

"So soon!" She smiles excitedly and cups my face. "We're losing you so quickly."

I look over at my father still sitting in his chair, gazing intently at the floor.

"Father? Does this please you?" I ask him.

"Of course it does, sweetheart." He stands and joins us. "This is all like a dream, Cecelia. I have always prayed for you to be this happy."

"And I am happy, Father." I smile. "Elated."

"Then I am happy too, my dear." He kisses my forehead.

"Johanna, could I speak to you in private?" I ask her. She and I go into the dining room.

"You will be coming to Lambridge with me." I beam.

"Cecelia?" She questions.

"The king has told me that I can have my own ladies in waiting. And if you'll accept my offer, I would like you to be my head lady in waiting."

"Cecelia, I would be honored." Johanna hugs me.

"Thank you. I'd hate to take you away from your husband, but I need you with me."

"Albert will understand." Johanna assures me. "And since you're the king's new favorite, perhaps Albert can secure a position at court." She says in jest.

"I will look into it." I laugh. 

"I suppose I should start packing."

~

"Leopold." I smile as I curtsy to the king.

"Cecelia," He takes my hand and kisses it, "Johanna, lovely to see you again."

"Your Grace." She curtsies before continuing to unpack my chests with some attendants.

Leopold gave me the available room near his. It's so spacious I'm not sure I'll even use the whole room. The bedspread, moldings, rugs, and chairs are all gold. It's breathtaking.

"I know you have much unpacking to do, my lady, but I would like you to meet someone."

He turns towards the door, "Dominic."

A gentleman that could be the king's brother walks in and bows to me, "My lady."

"Cecelia, this is my best friend Dominic, the Duke of Norden."

"Your Grace." I curtsy.

"The king has told me so much about you. It is an absolute pleasure to meet your acquaintance."