The Queem gave a hearty laugh as her god daughter spoke.
"I've told you before about that nonsense," she mock scolded. "Darling, you are so formal. I know this is a party but don't you ever forget who you are."
Her eyes stared into hers, as if trying to impose on her the will to understand that, to her, she was an equal.
"You do look so lovely," she said as she stepped back to admire her. "I dare say many young men here may ask you to dance. And quite right too, for no one is more lovely than you and Avril."
The Queen gave her daughter a smile and then a sigh.
"I should not detain you," she said, returning to her seat. "The young should be enjoying themselves, not wasting time with me. You can see me anytime, and there are beau's waiting to be admired and heartbroken."
Avril blushed at this idea but the Queen seemed not to notice.
"Go on, you two," she said to encourage them. "Enjoy."
Avril gave a slight bob, then moved away to the side to await Alessandra. The last thing she wanted was to be left alone again.