Despite Alessandra's lingering doubt that Stephen really wanted to dance with her, she found herself pleased and a little excited about the whole thing. She looked forward to twirling on the dance floor and seeing her skirt flare around them. A pleased smile worked its way on her lips. She hoped the prince would at least loosen up when they started dancing. He had one of the most charming smile she had ever seen but it was always tinged with some sort of self consciousness. Maybe losing himself in the dance would bring that smile out. She looked up at him and saw him swallow hard.

Blinking, Alessandra looked to dance floor as they descended the last step of the stairs and realized that the music had stopped. The crowd parted, adding more to her confusion. Surely there was nothing special about her descending the stairs. She almost laughed at the idea. But she was on the arm of the second born prince. It was only natural for the people to take notice of that. They were, no doubt, stopping for him.

And then, a tall man in red and gold regalia walked towards them. Edward.

Edward approached with a dazzling smile on his face. It was strange that he was actually looking at her. And what more, here he was, telling his younger brother that SHE was his partner. He continued to explain that the Queen wanted him to dance with her. Upon hearing that, a decline immediately came to her mind. Couldn't she find someone to dance with her just because they wanted to? She saw Lambert in the corner of her eye and she immediately dismissed the thought.

It was downright impolite to decline the heir to the throne. Instead of saying anything, she smiled at him but glanced back at Stephen, half expecting him to tell his brother that she was dancing with him. But he stood frozen on the spot, staring at Edward. And Edward was already sweeping her away.

Alessandra's eyes lingered on Stephen even as Edward swept her away. When he didn't make a move, she sighed inwardly and turned her attention to the prince that was now her unexpected dance partner. She mirrored his smile. "Thank you." She replied politely. "You look handsome yourself." She complimented back as she let Edward's arms lead her to the tune and tempo of the music.