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My mom had impeccable manners.
Ingrid looked at Emilie. “I’m sure Emilie would love to meet her future in-laws.”
Emilie forced a smile. “Yes, of course,” she said. But I could see the discomfort in her eyes.
The next course was served, which thankfully gave us all an excuse to focus on the meal and not have to worry about making awkward conversation. I hoped they kept the food coming. Whatever it took to keep them from planning my life.
44
EMILIE
The contrast between our families couldn’t have been more apparent. While my parents had been wholly absorbed in conversations about financial stability, the crown’s reputation, and the success of our match, Theo’s parents took a different approach—one that endeared them to me more with every passing moment. I felt horrible for the Ashfords. I felt even worse for Theo. They were talking about him like he was nothing more than a commodity. I understood the feeling.
“We’ve been thinking about investing in a property in France,” my father started. “I would love to get your expert opinion. Once Theo’s changes are implemented, our other properties will give us the capital we need to expand our holdings.”
“We can discuss that,” Mr. Ashford said.
“Emilie, you look lovely in that dress,” Mrs. Ashford said. Once again, she attempted to redirect the conversation away from business. It was at least the third time she had tried to do so.
“Thank you,” I replied. “Your gown is stunning.”
“I love when we come to the Wed season functions,” she gushed. “It’s one of the few times I get to dress up. Do you like to dress up?”
“Me?” I asked with surprise.
“Emilie has a full wardrobe filled with beautiful gowns,” my mother jumped in. “She understands her duty.”
Mrs. Ashford kept her attention on me. “What do you do when you’re not worried about duty?”
My mother attempted to butt in again. “Well—”
“She enjoys whale watching,” Theo quickly answered. “Our trip was short but spectacular.”
“Oh yes,” she said, nodding with her eyes lighting up. “Theo told us about that trip. It sounded amazing.”
Mrs. Ashford asked more questions. For the first time in a long while, I was engaged in conversations that felt unfiltered, personal, and real. It had nothing to do with my duties or the future. It was just Mrs. Ashford, Dana, talking to me. Just me. Not a princess or anything else.
My parents excused themselves, leaving us to our conversation. We talked about my hobbies and aspirations.
“Tell me, what did you have planned to do this summer?” she said. “Before you were matched to Theo, what were you going to be doing?”
Theo looked at me with curiosity on his face. “I was planning to attend university and pursue a degree in marine biology.”
“Really?” His father, Philip, looked surprised as well.
“Yes,” I said, nodding. “It was a late start, but my parents felt it would be best if I waited to go to school. They wanted Nora married before I could go. I was hoping to go on a research vessel and learn in the field.”
“And then you got matched to me,” Theo said quietly.
“Yes,” I said, smiling.
“How else do you spend your time?” Dana asked.
“Well, I’m a pretty boring girl,” I said, laughing. “I like nature. I spend my time in nature as much as I can. The palace has a beautiful garden that I like to hang out in. When I can sneak away, I like to go hiking.”
“She wants to hike the Appalachian Trail,” Theo said.
“Wow!” Philip said, laughing. “That’s ambitious.”
