Alexander's eyes, striking and pale blue, glistened with unshed tears of rage as he stared down at Constance, his expression carrying none of the polished restraint typically expected from royal gatherings. "Watch your mouth, woman," he said quietly, his voice low but carrying an unmistakable, threatening weight that silenced whatever protest Constance had been preparing to offer.
Guests throughout the ballroom remained frozen, several exchanging wide-eyed glances, clearly recognizing they were witnessing something far more significant than typical royal gossip. Nobody dared move or speak, sensing the gravity of the confrontation unfolding directly before them.
King Frederick, watching from a few steps away, straightened his decorated uniform and stepped forward with calm, deliberate authority, his expression stern despite the obvious tension gripping the room. "Alexander," he said firmly, though not unkindly, "step back."
Alexander hesitated only briefly before complying, his fists still clenched tightly at his sides, his breathing heavy with barely restrained emotion. Constance remained frozen in place, her hand still pressed against her stinging cheek, her earlier confidence completely shattered by the unexpected confrontation.
"This is Royal business," Frederick continued, his voice carrying firm, unwavering authority across the silent ballroom. "It's not up for debate." His words carried a finality that left no room for further argument, though the tension lingering throughout the ballroom remained palpable, guests sensing that whatever secret had provoked this dramatic confrontation was far from fully resolved.