This is a question that Victoria had endured for many years, finally gathering the courage to ask.
Leisen lowered her eyes, just about to reply.
But at that moment, there was a faint yet very formal sound of footsteps halting outside the study.
Immediately after, a deep and steady announcement sounded at the doorway: "Your Majesty, Sir Arthur Hastings has arrived."
Leisen raised her eyes, seeing the Queen's fingertips tremble slightly, she immediately understood and softly asked, "Your Majesty, if you prefer, you could ask Sir Arthur to wait a moment."
Victoria's lips moved slightly.
She was almost about to utter the words "wait a moment," but soon, she recalled Arthur's sacrifice. Ultimately, she merely closed her eyes, "No need, talk after Sir Arthur leaves."
Victoria lifted her head, instructing towards the door outside, "Let him in."
...
From the slightly cool corridor of Buckingham Palace, Arthur stepped in, instantly spotting the overly bright afternoon sunlight.
