Chapter 49 - The Queen Arrives
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A month later, a fleet of black, armored SUVs pulled into the semicircular driveway of the St. Moritz. The press had been kept at a strict distance by local police, ensuring the royal family’s arrival remained dignified and private.
Sienna stood at the entrance, flanked by Victoria and Maya. The grand mahogany doors were held open by bellhops in immaculate uniforms.
The door of the lead vehicle opened, and Queen Helene stepped out. She was an older woman, exuding an aura of immense, quiet power. She wore a tailored ivory coat and carried herself with the weight of centuries of history. Monsieur Dupont hovered nervously behind her.
"Your Serene Highness," Sienna greeted, executing a flawless, subtle curtsy. "Welcome to the St. Moritz."
The Queen looked around the lobby, her sharp blue eyes taking in the restored architecture, the soft lighting, and the golden crest on the marble floor.
"Ms. Vance," the Queen spoke, her voice surprisingly soft but carrying undeniable authority. "Monsieur Dupont informed me that you were quite... inflexible regarding our standard protocols."
Dupont looked down, shifting uncomfortably. Victoria tensed slightly beside Sienna.
"I prefer the term 'deeply committed to our craft,' Your Highness," Sienna replied, meeting the Queen's gaze without hesitation. "We want to offer you an experience that cannot be replicated anywhere else in the world."
The Queen stared at Sienna for a long, heavy moment. The silence in the lobby was absolute.
Then, a slow, genuine smile spread across the Queen’s face.
"I spend my entire life surrounded by people who say 'yes' simply because I wear a crown," the Queen murmured, stepping closer to Sienna. "It is exhausting. I was deeply intrigued to meet the woman who had the courage to tell me 'no' to protect her chef's vision. Lead the way, Ms. Vance. I am suddenly quite ravenous."
Sienna let out a silent breath of relief, returning the smile.
"Right this way, Your Highness. We have prepared the penthouse, and Chef Andre is awaiting your approval."
May you like
As they walked toward the elevators, Victoria leaned in close to Sienna, whispering, "Your father would have given them the imported fish. You are a far better hotelier than he ever was."
Sienna squeezed Victoria’s hand, feeling a profound sense of triumph as the elevator doors closed.
