#lady margaret delacourt

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Some Girls

Summary:

Edward laments on the past few days he’s been with the “Duchess”. A look through of The Princess Switch but in Prince Edward’s retrospective.Canon divergence in the end. 

word count: 5416

TW: need lots of tissues

The first time Prince Edward set his sights on the duchess of Montenaro, he had the impression that she was clever, cultured, and worldly-wise. Margaret Delacourt, all powdered, prim and proper. The first time she had stepped foot into Belgravian soil, Edward had come across her as aloof and cold. 

He’d brushed it off, thinking Margaret was stuck with him out of duty. Edward let it be. 

The night before he was supposed to leave to meet with the Spanish Ambassador, he stops by Lady Margaret’s chambers. The moment Margaret’s attendant opened the doors, there was something within his fiancée that he could not wrap his finger on.

“Please do come in.” She tells Edward, inviting him in. Edward smiles at her cordially, after all, he wishes her to be comfortable with all the ruckus going on.

“Might I say you look lovely in pink…” he tells her curtly, eager to break the ice that seemed to be lodged between them.

“Oh, and you look lovely as well.” Margaret replies, a smile gracing her face. It was quite a rarity to see her smile. Or was it because Edward simply did not try to simply study her. “Not in… Not in pink.”

Well that was new. 

She blurted out nonsense, but the prince did not seem to mind. Edward was rather fascinated to see something beyond the aloof exterior of the duchess. She seemed rather carefree at the moment.“Though pink would be very becoming.” She chuckles lightly, her gaze drifting to the chaise lounge behind him.

“I’ll take that as a compliment.” Edward tells her and follows her gaze. “I trust the accommodations are to your liking?” He inquires, knowing far too well Margaret was simply a complex woman to please.

“Oh, yes, they’re top drawer!” She reassures him.

“But is there a problem with the sofa?” He inquires, seeing as she had been staring at it for quite some time.

“No. No,no, not at all.” Her brows furrowed and she attempted to thwart the attention away from the sofa. The prince raised an eyebrow, Margaret was acting strange.

“Oh,no, no, it’s very comfortable. Very comfortable indeed.” She side steps him and falls back on the sofa. Edward fought the urge to chuckle, he did not want to risk offending Margaret. “In fact, I took a nap on it. Slept like a log.”

“A log?” He asks her, apprehension seeping in his tone.

At that moment, Edward thought the Margaret in front of him seemed to be wild as that wind-blown tree.

“Yes, dear. A royal log.” 

Somehow, her giving him an endearment of “dear” sent chills upon his spine. It was not usual of Margaret to be affectionate after all. She then musters up a statement that it was an expression they have back in Montenaro.

“But, I don’t want to keep you from Spain.” 

There she goes again, shutting him out as usual. Margaret sees him off on the way out and somehow he could not comprehend how he was going to marry someone he barely even met at all. He was worried.

He was worried terribly.

She shuts the door to his face, signaling his departure. Edward sighs in exasperation, he was more than confused as ever. Women, they were so difficult to read.

——

“Well then, we will find something else.” Edward makes his presence known and Margaret chokes on her tea. Edward suppressed a groan, did she openly display her disapproval of him in front of his own parents?

Or was he simply overreacting to everything?

“Oh,yes. Just… surprised.” Margaret musters up an excuse.

“I thought you’d be happy to see me?” His tone deflates, his ego hurt. 

“Of course, I just…” Margaret trailed off. “Didn’t you leave for your meeting with Spain last night?”

His mother, Queen Caroline, answers for him. “Edward had the good sense to turn around before he boarded the plane.”

“Yes, I thought it wrong to be concerned with affairs of state with our wedding just around the corner. I’m determined to spend as much time as we can over the next few days.”

He hands her the engagement gift once they were alone in his study. Margaret stood in front of him awkwardly.

“Its- It’s very suitable.” She tells him but doubt can be heard in her voice. Edward sighed internally, pleasing Margaret was slowly becoming a difficult job. “Extremely suitable.” She smiles at him sheepishly.

However, Edward was not convinced.

There was something different with the woman in front of him that Edward cannot simply not comprehend. She slips up here and there, sometimes her ideas sound absurd. 

Sometimes, he even wondered if this was all an act. Edward could feel her reluctance, he was not daft to blindly assume she was able to get along with him. However, he could not ignore the fact that she was trying to connect with him.

She was trying. Suddenly, the one sided line of communication he instigated was now getting a response. She curtsies before him, as Margaret stepped out of his study to go change into her riding clothes. Edward sank to his seat. He was confused, more confused than ever. 

———-

Edward waited for her in the royal stables. While Margaret was gone, he’d taken the liberty of choosing the horse Margaret would be riding. The prince would admit he had been meticulous in choosing a mere horse his fiancée would ride on.

Out of dozens of horses in the stables, he ruled out the aggressive ones which were a bit harder to control. He did not want to risk his fiancée getting thrown off by an aggressive stallion. He ruled out the meek ones as well, one that would bend easily on her whim. Margaret was a competitive rider, she might be displeased if she was given a meek horse to ride on.

“This one seems to fit your standards, sire.” The head stablehand tells the prince. “He is neither too aggressive nor too soft. As wee little Goldilocks said, he is just right.” 

Margaret makes her entrance, time seems to slow down. Edward found himself to be engrossed in her. He studied every detail of her features, the proud look on her face, her lips that would slowly upturn in a smile. 

And he could never ignore how good she looked while in riding clothes.

“Shall we?” He asks her.

“We shall.” A proud smile was etched onto Margaret’s face.

Edward makes a beeline to his horse and mounts it. Once on the horse, he faintly hears Margaret muttering “Oh, dear God.”

“Is there a problem?” He asks her, concern laced in his tone. He didn’t want to disappoint her. The duchess chuckles awkwardly and tells him that the horses back in Montenaro were a bit shorter. 

He found it odd, though. Prince Edward definitely saw the duchess’s photographs of her riding standard horses. For a moment, Edward thought she was making excuses in order not to spend time with him.

As Edward puts on his riding helmet, he barely realized that the duchess had already tried to mount the horse. It was revealed to be unsuccessful,as Margaret vaulted over the horse.

The prince dismounts quickly and comes to the rescue. “Are you alright?” He asks, concern evident in his voice.

The duchess nods but Edward was not satisfied. He slowly stands her up and removes her helmet. “Are you hurt? How is your head?” he asks, his hands slowly caressing the sides of her head.

Her cheeks tinged pink and she briefly avoided his gaze. “I thought you said you were a competitive rider?”

At that moment, Edward groaned as his tongue got the best of him once more. The question seemed inappropriate now that the duchess was embarrassed. He felt bad for making her uncomfortable. However, Margaret seemed to save her face by her sense of humor.

“You know, we really don’t have to do this.” Edward began, already feeling bad of causing embarrassment to the duchess. The duchess insisted to go on riding however. It fascinates Edward that the Margaret that he was used to was spontaneous, now it seems that she wishes to stick to a schedule.

He found it odd, however, he deduced she might’ve felt hurt by the embarrassing moment earlier.

“Well, then let me give you a hand.” He offers, it was the least he can do. He helps her up. Margaret stiffened as his hand rested on the small of her back. He successfully lifts her up before mounting his own horse.

They headed out of the stables and into the snowy terrains of Belgravia. He dismounts of his horse first before helping her to get off the horse despite being told that she can dismount herself.

“You have something in your eye.” Edward says softly, while attempting to remove the snow that seemed to be stuck on her eyelash. Their eyes met, and he was lost in her eyes once again. His gaze drifts down to her lips, Edward fought the urge to kiss her on the spot. Coming to her senses, Margaret shifted the topic.

“This really is quite breathtaking.” Margaret began as they took a moment to take in the view. It was a picturesque view of the entirety of Belgravia.

“Yes, it is.” Edward agrees with her. His tone shifts into a more sentimental one.“I come here when I need to get away.”

“Do you need to get away a lot?” Margaret inquires, concern slipping in her tone. 

“Sometimes the affairs of state can be a burden.” He answers curtly.

Margaret stares at him and sighs shortly. Her tone shifts to a more softer tone. “Burdens usually aren’t so bad when you have someone to share them with.”

Edward chuckles. He appreciated her concern, and he could tell it was coming as some sort of breakthrough from the ice lodged between them. “I doubt you’d be interested in the details of foreign trade.”

“Why not?”

“You shouldn’t have to worry about that.” He quickly reassures her.

“Because I am not bright enough?” Margaret asks, her tone starting to sound albeit defensive. He kicked himself mentally as he practically ruined all the progress they made by offending her. Edward avoided her gaze. 

“No, because you have a wedding to plan.”

Margaret lets out a chuckle. “So should I stick to things like polishing my tiara?” she asks, sarcasm laced in her tone.

He felt bad instantly. “N-No, I didn’t mean it like that.”

They exchanged a few words before she hastily makes an exit. Edward could clearly tell she was offended by what he said. She mounts the horse without his help and leaves him alone. 

Edward returns to the castle. With a storm of thoughts brewing in his head, he was seen to be pacing back and forth. Unfortunately, Frank was unable to escape the prince’s whims. “Frank, how do you apologize to a lady?” he asks.

The butler in question sighs deeply. “I don’t know, Your Highness. With all the years I’ve spent serving the royal family. Do you think I still have time for love?”

The butler immediately knew that it was a matter regarding Duchess Margaret. “Just say you’re sorry, Your Highness. That will do the trick I suppose.”

Edward sighs. “Can you tell the duchess I’d like to see her in the Portrait Library?” Frank De Luca made a beeline to the Duchess’s chambers. Before he was able to get farther, the prince asks another question out of nervousness. “Should I bring flowers? Or chocolate?”

Franks groans. He wondered how he was able to put up with Prince Edward after all these years. The prince was naive in terms of love, he was like a puppy. “You do you, Your Highness. But do not blame me if the duchess gets offended further if you try to bribe her with flowers or chocolates.”

——-

Waiting for Margaret felt like an eternity.

The two engaged on a small talk regarding the Belgravian royal family’s history. Margaret however, chose to cut to the chase. She quickly shifted the topic to instigate everything that was needed to be said. “So, you wanted to see me?”

“I believe I need to apologize.” Edward admits. 

It did not help that Margaret chose to push his buttons. “You believe you need to apologize. You are not certain.” she tells him. She stared right through him and Edward avoided his gaze. 

“N-No, actually, I know I do.” He admits. “Apologies are important. The truth is when we were out there on horseback, I was a complete and utter imbecile. You’re going to be my wife. If you have an opinion on a matter of state,well, I’d like to hear what it is.” 

Edward awaited her response nervously. He avoided Margaret’s gaze. “Apology accepted.” 

And he was able to sigh in relief. From a nervous expression, his expression shifted to a little grin. “Glad to hear it. Margaret, I know how difficult this must be for you. We hardly know each other, but I want to make this marriage work. We have a… duty to make it work.”

“Precisely.” she agreed. His spirit deflated when she agreed with him. It was all for duty after all. They were stuck together and they needed to make it work.

——-

Time seems to stand still whenever he is with her. Their giggles engulfed the toy store as the duchess sank against him as they both lost their balance while playing Twister. At that moment, Edward stared at her. He seemed to be lost in her eyes, her irises as dark and as deep as the midnight sea. 

She sank in his arms, ever so warm and bold.

Somehow, Margaret seemed to be far from what he had expected her to be. As a grand duchess, he expected her to be powdered, prim, and pale. The Margaret he knew was clever, cultured, and worldly wise. But seeing the Margaret in front of him was the polar opposite of his impression. This Margaret, baking cookies and playing twister with him in the toy store. At that moment, his impression of his bride-to-be changed.

Margaret Delacourt, she sees the world through a child’s wide eyes.

“How many families do actually live in the shelter?” He remember’s Margarets asking, Edward was clearly taken aback by her question. The same could also be said with his parents, King George and Queen Caroline. 

Margaret inquires if there was a full time staff or volunteers in the shelter. His father then rebukes that royalty do not concern themselves with the details of the royal charities.

It was quite of a rarity of a noble to dream of what was just in reach. He was used to women having grand dreams. But the woman beside him was different. Margaret seemed to surprise him even further.

His gaze drifts to her hand’s gentle tremors as she sat down in front of the grand piano. Everyone’s eyes were onto his fiance, awaiting her to serenade them with a beautiful tune. Edward steps forward, offering his hand. “Stage fright?”

“Something like that…” she awkwardly tries to laugh it off. 

“How about we play a duet?” Edward offers, to ease her nerves. “The Carol of the Bells, you play the bells and I’ll play the rest.”

“I-I dont know the chords.” She tells him.

Edward was momentarily taken aback but chose to go on. “Well, they’re simple, it’s these four notes.” He gently grabs her hands and places it on the keys of the piano. His hand placed on top of her, he gently guides her to play the bells.

He found her staring at him and he held eye contact until her gaze pulled away. “Right.” 

Once she was comfortable enough, he lets go of her hand and plays the rest. After they finished playing, Edward gently takes her hand. He kisses the back of her hand, once he met her gaze. He was so certain that the look of love was visible in her eyes.

He was falling for her even more.

He had watched her interact with the children. The normally shy duchess was mingling with the children of the shelter. “Isn’t she wonderful? Reading to the children like that?” The caretaker gushes.

He spared her a glance and a smile began to form on his lips. “The duchess is very special.”

Edward was pulled out of his thoughts when he heard the children clapping. The children were eager to interact with his fiance as the idea of a princess fascinates the children. “Are you in love with him?” One asks.

The children giggled and the smile on his face never faded at all. Margaret glances at him, her eyes never breaking eye contact. “Very much…”

And somehow, Edward forgot how much of a fool he looked like with a stupid grin on his face.

As they stepped out of the shelter, Edward fell in step behind Margaret as he pondered for a moment. Each day felt like he was discovering a new side of Margaret that he had no idea that existed. There was something in her that seemed to keep him wrapped around her finger.

He could not say no to her.

They spent the afternoon wrapping presents and Margaret baking cookies. The duchess had caused quite a ruckus with the staff not used to seeing the duchess in the kitchen. The remainder of the day was spent at the shelter. It seems that the duchess of Montenaro had brought out a side of him.

It was the best of him.

You're no one else I've known, Edward thought as the duchess fell asleep on his shoulder on the way back.

Edward had woken her up gently once they arrived back at the castle. Somehow, the prince had found her cute in her half-asleep state. Frank opened the car door for them as the prince stepped out first. “You seem to be quite exhausted.” He chuckles softly as he holds out a hand to guide Margaret out of the car.

She chuckled softly but did not say anything. As they went inside, Edward signalled both Frank and Mrs. Donatelli that he’d like to be left alone with the duchess. The prince walked her back to her chambers. “I’ve learned so much about you…” he tells her.

“Like how to bake cookies and wrap presents?”

He chuckles. “Like how to understand people and how to reach out to them.”

“You have a good heart, Edward.” She tells him softly. “You are going to do just fine.”

They stop in front of her chambers. “As long as you’re here to help me.” He mumbles softly.

Margaret sighs. Somehow, he could feel the weight of her heavy sigh. “Well, I suppose its time to turn in.” She tells him as Edward notices she avoids her gaze.

“I wanted to give you something…” he tells her. The prince pulls out a box from his pocket and gently gave it to her. “Didn’t have time to wrap it, but… probably for the best.”

Margaret gently opens the box. Her gaze remained downcast as she read what was on his gift. “Veritas, Anoris, Amare.”

“Truth, honor, and… love.” Edward recites, meeting her gaze. “The family crest.”

“The one from the painting.” She gently realizes as she smiles. “It belonged to your grandmother.”

“Margaret, if I’m being truthful…” Edward trailed off. His gaze met hers. “I was worried about us, about the wedding, about not knowing who you are.” He confesses.

“But after today, I’m not worried anymore.” He declares. 

Edward could have sworn Margaret’s eyes were glassy.”You really are Prince Charming.” She tells him, leaning forward to kiss him.

His lips entwined with hers and for a moment, it was as if he did not want to let go. She pulls away abruptly as his hands snake around her waist. For a moment, he thought he did something wrong.

“I…”

“Did I do something wrong?” He asks.

“No…” she attempts to convince him. “No, you did everything right.”

Edward smiles softly, “Well, then I’ll see you in the morning.”\

He was sure he heard a small sniffle from her. “You will see your Duchess in the morning.” She tells him, her voice cracking. Margaret avoids his gaze, but Edward was so sure he saw tears glistening in her eyes before bidding farewell.

For a moment, Edward pressed his ear towards the door. He was so sure he had heard Margaret sniffling and crying. Guilt filled his system thinking he must have overstepped his boundaries. Somehow, a part of him ached to hear her cry as well.

—

The next morning, Margaret acted cold towards him.

Edward was confused, he was beyond confused to see her act that way. He was used to seeing her act casually with him. It was as if all of their development went down the drain.

She walks out and he makes a beeline to follow her outside. Edward had spent quite a while looking for her. Margaret clearly wanted to be not found. He finds her sitting down in the benches of the castle gardens.

She seems to be lost in thought while looking at the gift he had given her last night. “I’ve been looking all over for you…” he approaches her softly.

“I needed some fresh air.” She tells him.

“Oh,” he sighs as he sat down next to her. “Well, I was worried about you.” He confides in her, as he gently places his hand on top of hers.

Margaret pulls away. “Please don’t.”

“Look, Margaret, I don’t know what’s wrong. Whatever it is, if you dont want to hand out a bunch of silly ribbons, just say so. We don’t have to.” He tells her, hoping to get through the Duchess.

She shakes her head. “No, we have to go. But…” Margaret meets his concerned gaze. “There is something I need to tell you first…”

“Sounds serious.” Edward remarks, unsure of where this conversation would lead them.

“Well it is,” Margaret smiles faintly. “It’s about truth and honor. But mostly, its about love.”

Edward’s brows furrowed in skepticism. “I’m not quite sure where this conversation leads us to…”

“Edward, let me finish.” Margaret said curtly. “The truth is, I was not the person that you were with these past few days.”

Edward chuckles. “Look, Lady Margaret. I-“

“Let me finish please…” she trembles ever so slightly. “First of all, I’d apologize for deceiving you in the first place. So there’s this woman, we met while I was touring the studio in Wembley. We happened to run into one another, and I noticed how similar we looked. Scratch that, we even looked like twins after all.” 

Edward listens patiently. “I’d admit it was my idea of switching lives with her for two days. It was all on me, then she took my place while I was out and trying to get to know Belgravia withouts the confines of being a royal. The whole time you had been with ‘Margaret’ was another woman. It wasn’t me.”

The air in the castle gardens hung heavy with tension as Margaret revealed her secret. Edward's eyes widened in disbelief, struggling to grasp the unexpected twist. "But... why?" Edward stammered, his voice laced with a mix of confusion and hurt.

Margaret took a deep breath, her eyes fixated on the distant horizon. "I needed a break, Edward. A break from the expectations, the responsibilities. I just wanted to experience life as an ordinary person for a while."

Edward shook his head, still trying to reconcile the Margaret he thought he knew with the revelation before him. "You could have just told me, Margaret. 

Margaret's gaze finally met his, revealing a vulnerability that contradicted her usual composed demeanor. "I was afraid, Edward. Afraid that you'd see me differently, that you wouldn't understand. You were so overly formal that"

Silence lingered between them before Edward spoke, his tone softened. "Margaret, honesty is the foundation of any relationship. Deception only breeds confusion and pain."

She nodded, a hint of remorse in her eyes. "I know, and I'm sorry. I never meant to hurt you with all of this."

Edward sighed, running a hand through his hair. "So, where does this leave us now?"

Margaret hesitated before answering, "I wish to call off the engagement.”

——

“I wish to call off the engagement.” Edward mirrors Lady Margaret’s words in front of his father and mother.

The king and queen looked at him with a horrified expression. It was quite unusual of Edward to call off the wedding as the two monarchs knew that their son and the duchess of Montenaro get along well. King George was the first one to recover from shock. “You what?”

“I wish to call off the wedding.” He tells them curtly, not sparing them with any details. 

Queen Caroline looks at her son with an expression of disbelief. “Edward, why so sudden? You are only days away from your wedding? Are you sure you are not experiencing a case of cold feet?”

King George answers for him. “Absolutely not. You will not cancel the wedding.”Edward stood firm, his gaze unwavering as he addressed his parents.

"I've made up my mind, Father. This wedding cannot proceed."

King George's face darkened with a stern expression. "Edward, the alliance with Montenaro is crucial for our kingdom. You cannot simply call off the wedding without a valid reason."

Edward sighed, sensing the weight of responsibility but determined in his decision. He recalled what happened and filled his parents in on what transpired. Queen Caroline pulls out the envelope from her desk drawer. She pulls out the picture of a woman and Lady Margaret standing in front of one another. Edward’s eyes softened to see the other one, the woman he had fallen in love with. “Is this her?” The queen asks, her tone meek.

“I’m in love with her.” He declared.

“Nonsense.” The king brushes him off. “There is no way you could fall in love with someone whom you just know for a mere 2 days! Do not be delusional, Edward.”

“Father, please” Edward attempts to reason out. “If you do care, if you ever care at all.”

Queen Caroline studied the photograph, her eyes flickering between the two women captured in a moment of shared secrets. “Edward, this is quite a revelation. Are you absolutely certain about your feelings for this woman?”

Edward nodded, determination etched on his face. “Mother, I’ve spent these past days getting to know her, and there’s a connection that goes beyond what I had with Lady Margaret. It might sound implausible, but I can’t deny what I feel. It seems unfair for Lady Margaret if we proceed with the wedding knowing that I have fallen for someone else.”

King George remained unmoved, his skepticism evident. “Edward, you’re letting emotions cloud your judgment. For god’s sake, young man,you are not an ordinary person. You cannot just drop everything without thinking about the consequences of the titles we hold.”

Edward turns to his mother, and he attempted to sway her to his side. “Mother, please…”

“Son, you cannot change who you are, or what your duties entail.” His mother softly reminds him, as she was torn between her loyalty towards her son and her duties to the crown.

“Father.” Edward attempts to reason out once more. 

“How long do you think you’ll be playing this game?” The king scoffs. “You do not even know her name. What makes you think you fell in love with her? You did not fall in love with her as the baker from Chicago. You are just in love with her pretending as Duchess Margaret.”

“I know no game, Father. I am in love with her!” Edward tells him, his voice raised. 

“You are my son.” King George tells him. “You are the crown prince of Belgravia. You will do what must be done, no matter how you feel.”

With a desperation in his eyes, Edward pleaded, "Father, I beg you, just her name. Knowing her name won't jeopardize the kingdom. Please, let me have this small piece of truth."

King George, unmoved, maintained his firm stance. "Edward, you must understand the greater responsibility at hand. You must rid yourself of this silly infatuation, it's quite unbecoming."

Edward's voice trembled with emotion as he persisted, "I beg you, Father, it's tearing me apart not knowing who she is. I cannot go through with the wedding without at least knowing her name."

The king sighed, a moment of contemplation flickering across his face. However, he remained resolute. "I sympathize with your turmoil, Edward, but my decision stands. You will marry Duchess Margaret without knowing the identity of the woman you encountered."

Edward, frustration etched on his face, protested, “How can I let go when everything feels so wrong? I need to know her name; I need to understand who she is.”

The king’s tone grew stern. “You will not pursue this any further. The woman’s identity is of no consequence to you or the kingdom. Your duty is clear, and you will abide by it.”

Clearly desperate, Edward turned to his mother, his voice imploring, “Mother, please. I need to know her name. I can’t go through with this without at least knowing who she is.”

Queen Caroline hesitated, torn between her son’s anguish and her duty to the king. Before she could speak, King George intervened sternly, “Caroline, do not tell him. The woman’s identity is not for him to know. It would only complicate matters further.”

He sank to the ground defeated.

—-

The morning of their wedding was a somber affair.

As expected, the king forbade them to call off the engagement. Their wedding felt more like a funeral as both Edward and Margaret were forced by the duties of the crown. Margaret sat in front of the ornate vanity, her eyes reflecting a mixture of sadness and acceptance. Mrs. Donatelli, her loyal attendant, delicately dabbed at Margaret’s eyes, attempting to conceal the evidence of tears that had stained her fair complexion.

Mrs. Donatelli, her voice hushed, offered words of comfort, “Please do not cry, Your Grace. The ceremony is due to start soon.”

A soft knock echoed through the chamber, prompting Mrs. Donatelli to rise from her task. With a curious glance, she opened the door to find Edward standing there, a mixture of apprehension and determination in his eyes.

“May I speak with Lady Margaret?” Edward requested, his gaze shifting from Mrs. Donatelli to the duchess at the vanity.

Once they were left alone, silence lingered in the air. Margaret continued to sit at the vanity, her gaze fixed on the reflection in the mirror, while Edward stood, uncertain of where to begin.

Margaret’s eyes, still fixed on her reflection, revealed the truth Edward had observed. He spoke softly, “You’ve been crying.”

Her shoulders tensed imperceptibly, a subtle acknowledgment of the vulnerability that lay beneath the composed exterior. “You should be concerned about yourself.”

“If you came here to at least try to force me to tell you her name, I’m afraid I cannot.” She tells him softly. “Your father made me swear to secrecy.”

Edward fiddles with his hands. “How is she?” He chokes out.

Margaret meets his gaze through the mirror. “She’s doing good. I can’t really reveal much, Edward. Well, she left a message for me to pass along for you.”

“What is it?”

Before Margaret could speak, Mrs. Donatelli peeked from the door. “It’s time, Your Highness. You have to go back.”

Some girls you marry, 

Edward glances at his bride-to-be, knowing far too well that the Margaret he spent his time with was not the Margaret he was to be wed. Margaret Delacourt kept silent, knowing far too well her husband-to-be had fallen in love with her doppelgänger.

some you love, 

His gaze drifts to the sidelines. There she was, wearing a cap that hid her eyes. His breath hitches as their gazes met. Her eyes, the same teary ones she had when she said her goodbyes. She smiles and mouths him to go on. 

Surely, in that crowd of thousands he’d find her, and their paths would cross again.

It was a cruel twist of fate, indeed. 

[hudgenssource]

ricktropicales:  She is largely known for her role as Gabriella Montez in the High School Musical franchise 💃🏻, as Lindy Taylor in Beastly 🖤, as Stacy De Novo/Lady Margaret Delacourt in the Princess Switch Netflix film series 👸🏼. The list goes on and on but NOW… she was recently named Global Tourism Ambassador for the Philippines. 🇵🇭❤️💛💙🤍🌏 She was so poised, articulate & effervescent all at the same time. 👌🏼 I swear my 3rd/4th grade self almost collapsed in front of her. 🤣 Thank you for finally visiting the Philippines @vanessahudgens! 🥰 Thank you @publicityasia for having us! 🧡 #VanessaHudgens

[seafrost-fangirl]

So now that we have evidence* that the Netflix Christmas Cinematic Universe (NCCU) is a thing, I desperately need to know if this means we're going to get the MCU treatment of 'each facet will get a trilogy and then crossover'??? Like, we already have 3 Christmas Prince movies, so all we need is 1 more Princess Switch and then 2 more Knight Before Christmas-es! Then we can have the doppelgangers possibly explained through the magic that we know exists (ie the witch, time travel, and Santa Claus (?)). Please Netflix....do it for me....

*Evidence:

1. Reference to Aldovia in AKBC

2. Two references to Belgravia in ACP3: RB; both verbal and a map depiction

3. King Richard and Queen Amber appear at Lady Margaret Delacourt's coronation as Queen of Montenaro in APS:SA

[lstxrks]

- the princess switch 2 icons

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[haydenpanettieres]

Vanessa Hudgens as Lady Margaret Delacourt in The Princess Switch: Switched Again (2020, dir. Mike Rohl)

[toriasimmons]

2020 fictional ladies of the year

Helena Bertinelli/Huntress (Mary Elizabeth Winstead, Birds of Prey and the Fantabulous Emancipation of One Harley Quinn) Ellie Chu (Leah Lewis, The Half of It) Alice Lamb and Vera (Gemma Arterton and Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Summerland) Dawn Schafer and Mary Anne Spier (Xochitl Gomez and Malia Baker, The Baby-Sitters’ Club) Lady Fiona Pembroke, Lady Margaret Delacourt, Princess Stacy De Novo Wyndham (Vanessa Hudgens, The Princess Switch: Switched Again) Harper Caldwell and Abby Holland (Mackenzie Davis and Kristen Stewart, Happiest Season) Izzy Richardson (Megan Stott, Little Fires Everywhere) Scorpia (voiced by Lauren Ash, She-Ra and the Princesses of Power)

[aladywtlsdn]

Alguém disse: "De todas as cachorras, mortas ou vivas, uma mulher que escreve é a mais feroz." Se isso for verdade, então essa autora quer mostrar as presas. Meu nome é Lady Whistledown. Você não me conhece, e garanto que nunca conhecerá, mas esteja avisado, dearest reader, eu o conheço muito bem.

Eu sei mais sobre as pessoas do que você sabe sobre si mesmo. Eu consigo ver o que está acontecendo atrás das portas mais do que aqueles atrás delas. Não tentem comprar novas fechaduras para proteger sua privacidade, pois talvez eu já esteja dentro. E assim eu irei lentamente entrar na casa de cada um e na cabeça de cada um. Não precisa ter medo, eu serei justa.

Querido leitor, eu sei que você tem esperado por esse momento. Está na hora de deixar nossas jovens colocarem o pé fora de casa e deixar que os leões, ou melhor, suas mamas, cacem a melhor carne no mercado de lordes solteiros. Bem vindos à temporada social de 1867.

Hoje é um dia extremamente importante e, para algumas, aterrorizante, pois é o dia que as jovens de Londres em idade de se casar serão apresentadas a Sua Majestade, a Rainha. May God have mercy on their souls.

Vamos dar uma olhada nas beldades dessa primavera, shall we?

Imagine como a viscondessa de Townshend, depois de ter sido a diamante de seu debute e ter casado duas de suas filhas (e pasmem: sendo uma delas a caçula), deve estar obstinada pra enfim encontrar pretendentes menos alérgicos a flores para sua adorável Lady Tulip.

Quem também vive às sombras de antigas favoritas e hoje nobres damas é Lady Astley. Embora lhes faltassem um título, as três primeiras filhas da falecida Lady Amélia Astley tinham tudo o que precisavam em beleza e bons modos. Veremos nessa temporada se conseguiram passar seus dotes para a mais jovem e certamente mais indômita, Lady Clarissa.

Por outro lado, sei que há muitas novas aspirantes. Muitas de nossas debutantes irão tentar competir, mas com certeza ficaram em segundo plano quando a beleza exótica de Lady Annika Beamont ou até mesmo os cabelos de fogo da forasteira Lady Darya Pavlovna dominarem os olhares dos pretendentes.

E, podem até me chamar de insensível, mas toda temporada tem uma aparição decepcionante. Infelizmente, Lady Amélia Lightwood volta a debutar após o trágico falecimento do noivo. Esperamos que esse ano a sorte lhe sorria, pois a fama de amaldiçoada possivelmente afastará os lordes mais supersticiosos.

Meus queridos leitores, nós podemos ter opiniões e fazer apostas, mas aquela que tem a palavra final é de Sua Majestade. Eu vi o descaso com que recebeu muitas das jovens, poucas aquelas que chegaram a conquistar alguma reação da nossa querida Rainha Amélia e apenas uma, como de costume, trouxe um sorriso e, mais importante, uma palavra de aprovação.

Senhoras e Senhores, Lady Charlotte Sinclair é nosso diamante! A epítome da elegância e castidade como uma verdadeira dama londrina deve aspirar ser. Porém, se devemos colocar todas nossas fichas nessa encantadora jovem, só o tempo nos dirá.

Lady Donna Arboleda, em minha humilde opinião, poderia ter facilmente levado o título com sua postura impecável, graça e leveza, de uma dançarina aclamada por tantos.

Correndo o risco de soar mais pretenciosa, também tenho algumas sugestões a fazer. Se Lady Charlotte é o diamante dessa temporada, o título de cristal de vidro fica para Lady Araminta Fitzsimmons. Tentem não levar minhas palavras para caminhos duvidosos, mesmo joias falsas tem seu lugar de destaque em um belo pescoço, ou talvez nos braços de um pretendente desavisado.

Sua única competidora seria a desajeitada Lady Esther Dugmore, cuja reverência foi tão desengonçada quanto uma pata. Mesmo com minha imaginação fértil, não vejo como a senhorita em questão poderia se transformar em cisne. Veja bem, uma pata com belas feições, mas ainda uma pata. Pior seria não ser memorável, proeza que Lady Margaret Howard e Lady Mary Anne Delacourt quase conseguiram.

Eu, em minha posição de observadora, julgo válido uma breve nota sobre os lordes em busca de uma esposa. O baile abriu meus olhos. Vós digo isso: Vossa Alteza é tão transparente quanto qualquer outro homem quando está na frente de uma donzela. Entre as danças e as conversas, pude notar o que cada um está procurando, mas não se preocupem: vocês irão descobrir quando eu achar pertinente.

Yours truly,  Lady Whistledown

[onlyfreds]

The Princess of Montenaro | Part 1

A Harry Potter x Princess Switch: Switched Again crossover

Requested?: Yes/No

Summary: Gabrielle Delacourt is Lady Margaret Delacourt's sister. When Margaret is about to be crowned queen, of course her sister is their to support her. Fred, on the other hand, plans to confess his feelings for Gabrielle. But will one small change get in the way of it all?

I was spending my summer at the burrow, as usual.

"Morning!" A cheery voice greeted as I looked up from my book.

It was Fred, one of my best friends and he happened to be my crush since first year.

"Morning!" I greeted as he sat down in front of me.

"What's that you're reading?" He asked.

"A book, silly." I answered.

He rolled his eyes, "What's the title?"

"Romeo and Juliet."

Fred took a sip of his tea, "Again? How many times have you read that?"

I shrugged, "About a hundred times."

"You're always up for a love story." He said.

I smiled, "I guess you could say that."

"Then, what if I'll be your love story?" He said with a cheeky grin on his face.

I giggled as I playfully smacked him on the arm.

"Will you two please not flirt at the table?" George said, as the rest of the Weasley clan came down to the kitchen.

"Shut up!" I heard Fred mutter as his twin sat next to him.

We were eating breakfast and happily chatting with one another when we heard a small tap on the window.

We turned and saw my owl, Athena, perched on the window holding a letter in her beak. I walked over to her and took the envelope from her, petting her before she took off. I opened the letter and took out an invitation, it said: You are hereby invited to the Coronation of Lady Margaret Katherine Claire Delacourt. By the order of the Queen: This Christmas Day at the Montenaro Cathedral.

"My sister's going to be crowned queen of Montenaro." I said, looking up from the invitation. I then placed the invitation on the table and pulled out a letter. I began to read it aloud:

"Dear Gabrielle, You now know that my coronation will be held on Christmas. Now, I fully understand if you would rather spend your Christmas there with your friends. I'm not forcing you to attend. Though, if you wish too. You could bring along a companion or a friend of yours, as I would ecstatic to finally meet them. Stacy and Edward would be arriving later this afternoon.

I'm still trying to settle in. But I had your bedroom placed next to the library as I know you love reading. Things have been hard since things didn't go so well for Kevin and I. We haven't received an RSVP from him, so I'm have a feeling that he won't be coming at all.

At this point, I've stopped the staff from decorating the residence. As I am planning to cancel the holiday festivities. It doesn't feel right since Montenaro is still mourning the loss of their king.

I hope your having a wonderful time there. I'll just be sending over your present. Always remember that I'll always be here for you no matter what.

Love from, Margaret."

"So, are you going to attend?" Molly asked.

I nodded, "Of course I will. This coronation only happens once. And I'm not going to miss it for the world."

"Then who are you bringing with you?" Ginny asked.

I locked eyes with Fred, "Fred. Well, that is if he wants to and of course if Molly allows him." I said, turning to her.

Molly nodded, "Of course he could!"

I turned to Fred, "Wanna come Freddie."

He smiled, "Of course!"

"Then you two should get ready." Molly said.

I chuckled, "We don't have to leave today. We can go tomorrow."

Molly shook her head with a small smile, "Dear, don't mind us. Besides, your sister sounds like she could use a hand or two."

She then ushered Fred and I upstairs, "Now, go pack up you two!"

I chuckled as Fred went to his room and I went to Ginny's room to pack our stuff.

I then heard a knock on the door, "Come in."

Fred walked in, "How long will we be staying there?"

"We'll leave the day after the coronation." I answered.

I then turned to face him, "Look, you don't have to go if you don't want to."

[sanfcrds]

* ♡ . — VANESSA HUDGENS GIF ICONS

click right HERE to find #210 (80x80) gifs icons of VANESSA HUDGENS in her roles as both STACY DE NOVO and LADY MARGARET DELACOURT in the THE PRINCESS SWITCH (2018) movie. she was 29 years old while making this project and she has irish and filipino ethnicity so please cast her accordingly ! all these gifs were cropped, resized and slightly edited by me, however all credits go to the talented emma and her originial posts here and here. please like or reblog if you plan on using or find this helpful ! enjoy.

trigger warnings : kissing, drinking

[thirdlinedesigns]

My Review - "The Princess Switch" Movie

My Review – “The Princess Switch” Movie

To celebrate Vanessa Hudgen’s 30th birthday (which is December 14), I decide to write a review about her new movie on Netflix. In the movie “The Princess Switch“, sheplays possibly identical twin sisters Stacy DeNovo and Lady Margaret Delacourt. Although they have different personalities, they temporarily swap lives with each other in hopes of finding peace, independence, and joy. They go back…

[aellathedreamer]

in a world of boys, he’s a gentlemen

“Got lovestruck, went straight to my head. Got lovesick, all over my bed”

A look through of Stacy and Edward’s relationship right after he proposed. The royal life, a whirlwind of emotions.

Chapter 15/40

Pairing: Stacy x Edward

Link: https://archiveofourown.org/works/51843736/chapters/131078110

As Stacy entered the regal tea room, her initial confidence wavered upon encountering the intense gaze of Queen Ming. The weight of the queen's scrutiny bore down on her, creating a momentary pause in Stacy's steps. Queen Caroline, noticing Stacy's reaction, subtly gestured for her to proceed. Despite the initial falter, Stacy summoned her inner resolve and continued into the room.

Amelie, sensing Stacy's discomfort, subtly whispered, "Hold your head high, Lady Stacy. You're here representing Belgravia."

Stacy, determined to make a positive impression, straightened her posture and met Queen Ming's gaze. The atmosphere in the room carried a subtle tension, but Stacy, with a gracious smile, navigated through it. "Your Majesties," Stacy greeted, her tone steady despite the underlying nerves. She executes a well crafted curtsy much to Amelie’s relief. "I am honored to join you for tea."

Queen Ming, maintaining her composed expression, acknowledged Stacy with a nod. The intricate dance of royal interactions unfolded, and while the initial encounter held a hint of challenge, Stacy persevered, determined to find her footing in the realm of royal intricacies. Despite her attempts to maintain composure, Stacy's nerves shone through as she delicately took her seat at the tea table. The subtle tremor in her hands while reaching for the teacup didn't go unnoticed by the discerning gaze of Queen Ming.

Queen Caroline, sitting beside Stacy, observed the unfolding scene with a hint of concern. She exchanged a glance with Amelie, silently acknowledging the delicate nature of the moment.

"Princess Stacy, I trust you find our tea to your liking," Queen Ming inquired with a tone that carried both formality and a touch of scrutiny. Throughout the ordeal, Stacy picked up subtle cues that the tea served was a gift from Penglia. Queen Caroline mentioned that Penglians have a delicate palate in terms of creating tea. 

Stacy, her eyes meeting Queen Ming's intense gaze, managed a polite smile. "Yes, Your Majesty, the tea is exquisite. If I may, just Stacy will do. I am only to receive the title of Princess once married to Prince Edward."

Queen Caroline and Queen Ming exchanged glances. The Belgravian queen gave a subtle nod of approval towards Amelie. However, the vulnerability in Stacy's demeanor was palpable, and Queen Ming, perceptive as ever, saw through the carefully crafted facade. The room held a subtle tension, and Queen Caroline, sensing Stacy's unease, interjected with a gentle redirection. "Perhaps we can discuss the upcoming events and engagements, easing Princess Stacy into her new role."

As the conversation shifted, Queen Ming continued to observe Stacy with a keen eye, the unspoken recognition of the princess's vulnerabilities lingering in the air. Stacy, determined to prove herself, pushed through the nerves, navigating the intricacies of their exchange with each passing moment. Queen Ming's perceptive gaze lingered on Stacy as the conversation shifted, and she couldn't help but comment on the striking resemblance between Stacy and Duchess Margaret Delacourt, Edward's former fiancée. "Lady Stacy, pardon my observation, but you bear a remarkable resemblance to Duchess Margaret of Montenaro," Queen Ming remarked, her tone carrying a subtle hint of curiosity.

Stacy, maintaining her poise despite the probing comment, replied with a diplomatic smile, "It's not the first time I've heard that, Your Majesty. People do say that the resemblance is uncanny and we may be related through a far relative."

Queen Ming, however, pressed further. "Rumors circulated during Edward's engagement to Duchess Margaret, suggesting that the two of you may have switched identities. Is there any truth to those rumors, Queen Caroline?"

Queen Caroline, choosing her words carefully, confirmed the truth of the rumors, acknowledging the unconventional events that had transpired during Edward and Margaret's engagement. With the revelation laid bare, Queen Ming turned her attention directly to Stacy, her inquiries becoming more pointed. "Princess Stacy, did you play a role in instigating the breaking of Edward's engagement to Duchess Margaret? The rumors implied a certain level of... cunning in the matter."

Stacy, aware of the indirect insult woven into Queen Ming's words, responded with measured composure. "Your Majesty, I assure you, my intentions have always been sincere. Circumstances surrounding the engagement were complex, but I am committed to fulfilling my responsibilities as a member of the royal family."

Queen Ming, ever the discerning presence in the room, continued her subtle probing, her gaze fixed on Stacy. With a slight nod to Queen Caroline, she decided to express her observations more explicitly. "She looks exactly like Margaret, but..." Queen Ming began, her tone carrying a calculated pause that hung in the air. "Minus the poise and elegance."

The comment, delivered with a measured and deliberate cadence, cast a momentary shadow over the room. Stacy, maintaining her composure, acknowledged the implicit critique with a subtle nod, aware that every word and gesture was under scrutiny.

Queen Caroline, caught in the delicate balance of maintaining diplomacy, responded, "Princess Stacy is adapting to her new role, and I have full confidence in her abilities to represent Belgravia with grace and charm."

“This seems interesting…” Frank mutters under his breath. Observing from the sidelines, his gaze drifts to Stacy’s attache right beside him. The palace was well aware of the unspoken feud between the two. Frank, ever so mischievous, chose to annoy the attache. “You look like you could use a bottle of vodka, Elsworth.”

Amelie elbowed the butler. “Oh shut it, will you? If i had my way, i would have shipped you off to Montenaro on pronto.”

“It would be my pleasure.” Frank instigates her ire. It took Amelie Elsworth all her patience in order to not to get rid of the butler right beside him. 

—

Stacy returned to her room, a sense of frustration lingering in the air. Amelie, ever the strict figure, observed Stacy's demeanor with a discerning gaze. "Amelie, I feel like I acted like a fool in there," Stacy admitted with a sigh, her tone reflecting a mix of disappointment and self-criticism.

Amelie, maintaining her stern demeanor, responded firmly “Your Ladyship, you must learn to navigate these situations with more composure. The expectations are high, and you represent more than just yourself in these interactions."

Stacy nodded, acknowledging Amelie's strict guidance. "I know, Amelie. It's just... it's harder than I anticipated."

Amelie, unmoved, continued, "Difficulties are part of the journey. You need to rise above them. Mistakes are not afforded the luxury in this realm."

Stacy, feeling the weight of Amelie's strict expectations, took a deep breath. Though she was well aware that Frank was annoying Amelie earlier which would have caused the sour mood in her attache. "I'll do better next time, Amelie. I appreciate your guidance, even if it's stern."

Amelie's stern gaze softened slightly. "It's for your own good, Stacy. The realm demands a certain standard, and you must meet it."

Stacy, determined to improve, nodded resolutely. "I'll learn from this, Amelie. Thank you for being honest with me, even if it stings a bit."

Amelie, strict yet unwavering, offered a nod of acknowledgment. "That's what I'm here for, Princess. To guide you through the challenges of royalty. I’ll be right back…"

Amelie, recognizing Stacy's need for relaxation, decided to bring a bottle of wine to her room, hoping to ease the princess's nerves. As she entered, she found Stacy already feeling the weight of the day. "Your Highness, I thought you might appreciate a bit of relaxation," Amelie stated, offering the bottle and a pair of glasses.

Stacy, looking appreciative, accepted the gesture. "Amelie, you might be onto something there."

However, Amelie didn't anticipate Stacy's eagerness. Before she knew it, the entire bottle was empty, and Stacy, now a bit tipsy, wore a mischievous grin. Amelie, with a raised eyebrow, remarked, "Your Ladyship, I intended for a moment of relaxation, not an entire evening's entertainment."

Stacy, giggling, replied, "Well, Amelie, sometimes you just need to dive in. Let's make this royal evening an adventure!"

Amelie, faced with the unexpected turn of events, managed a subtle sigh. "Princess, perhaps it's time to slow down. We still have duties to attend to tomorrow."

Stacy, undeterred, spun in a playful twirl. "Amelie, you worry too much! Tonight, we're just two friends enjoying a royal evening. Join me!"

Amelie, torn between her strict demeanor and the undeniable humor of the situation, found herself reluctantly pouring another glass, realizing that navigating a tipsy princess might be an unexpected challenge in its own right. Their banter was interrupted as a knock on the door echoed through the room, Amelie, with a stern expression, opened the door to reveal Prince Edward bidding Stacy goodnight. His departure for an overseas meeting added a layer of formality to the encounter.

"I figured i would see you before i depart," Edward greeted, a hint of longing evident in his eyes.

Stacy, in her slightly tipsy state, responded with a playful grin. Stacy sashays towards the door and leans on the door frame. Amelie experienced an acute wave of secondhand embarrassment. "Well, hello there, royal six-pack," she grinned, obviously drunk.

Amelie facepalms in sheer embarrassment. "Oh dear lord, kill me now," Amelie muttered, caught between the cringe-worthy moment and her commitment to maintaining decorum.

“You’re drunk.” Edward points out.

“No, I’m not. I’m jhust… I’m jhust tipshy…” she slurred.

Edward, managing the situation with a touch of blush but ease, responded to Stacy's flirtatious remark. Meanwhile, Stacy, not wanting Edward to leave, became remarkably clingy, a stark contrast to her usual composure.

Amelie, witnessing the unexpected turn of events, exchanged a glance with Edward, who mouthed a silent inquiry about why she allowed Stacy to consume alcohol. Amelie, with a subtle eye roll, gestured that it wasn't entirely intentional. Stacy, oblivious to the exchange, clung to Edward, expressing her reluctance for him to depart. "Edward, don't go. The night is young, and you're my favorite company."

Edward, handling Stacy's clinginess with good-natured patience, assured her, "I'll be back before you know it, my princess. Do promise you’d take care of yourself, won’t you?”

As Edward left, Amelie found herself navigating the challenge of managing a particularly clingy and tipsy princess, realizing that the evening had taken an unexpected turn into the realm of royal escapades. In an unexpected burst of tipsy energy, Stacy sprinted after Edward into the hallway, surprising him with a playful tackle. Amelie, trailing behind, could feel a fresh wave of secondhand embarrassment washing over her as the scene unfolded.

"Lady Stacy, please!" Amelie called out in a futile attempt to contain Stacy's uncharacteristic antics.

Edward, caught between surprise and amusement, decided to play along and gently lifted Stacy onto his back. Amelie quickened her pace, realizing that guiding Stacy through this tipsy escapade had become a challenge. As Edward carried Stacy on his back towards her room, Stacy, grinning happily and inebriated, continued to shower him with playful kisses. The echoes of her laughter and his good-natured chuckles reverberated in the hallway. “I never told anyone, but… i liked your piggyback rides.” Stacy babbled.

However, the revelry took an unexpected turn as Stacy, overwhelmed by the effects of the alcohol, passed out drunk while still on Edward's back. Amelie, arriving just in time to witness this unforeseen development, sighed with a mix of amusement and exasperation, wondering how the evening had taken such an unexpected twist. Together, they navigated the challenge of guiding a tipsy princess who had succumbed to the effects of the revelry.

Edward, with a bemused yet responsible demeanor, carefully carried the now-blackout drunk Stacy to her room. Amelie, slightly exasperated but ever composed, followed closely, anticipating the challenge of dealing with a thoroughly inebriated princess.

As they entered Stacy's room, Edward gently placed her on the bed. Amelie, with a subtle sigh, began the task of making Stacy as comfortable as possible.

"Amelie, we need to ensure she's alright and let her sleep it off," Edward suggested, his practical side taking charge.

The attache, agreeing, nodded and added, "I'll stay with her for a while, just in case."

Edward, appreciating Amelie's willingness to help, acknowledged, "Thank you, Amelie. I'll check on her in the morning. I’d call once i arrived in England."

—

Stacy groaned as she woke up with a pounding headache, her surroundings slowly coming into focus. Amelie, standing nearby with a stern expression, wasted no time in addressing the events of the previous night. "Princess Stacy, do you have any idea the level of secondhand embarrassment you subjected me to last night?" Amelie began, her frustration evident.

Stacy winced at the scolding tone. "Amelie, my head feels like it's about to split open. Can we skip the lecture?"

Amelie, undeterred, continued her lecture with a mix of frustration and embarrassment. "Do you even remember what you said last night? 'Hello, royal six pack,' you declared to Prince Edward. Honestly, Princess, where did you even come up with such lines?"

Stacy, rubbing her temples, attempted to recall the hazy memories. "Did I say that? Oh, dear."

Amelie, her frustration growing, sighed deeply. "Yes, you did, and it wasn't the only thing. You tackled Prince Edward in the hallway and then proceeded to shower him with kisses. The whole castle heard your antics!"

Stacy, now fully grasping the extent of her actions, cringed. "Amelie, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to embarrass you."

Amelie, with a raised eyebrow, retorted, "Princess, you need to exercise more restraint. We're not in a tavern; we're in a royal palace!"

Stacy, still nursing her headache, muttered, "Note taken, Amelie. I'll try to keep the royal six-pack comments to myself in the future."

Amelie, shaking her head, couldn't help but mutter to herself, "I swear, dealing with the aftermath of your escapades should be an Olympic sport."

Stacy, despite the throbbing headache, couldn't help but chuckle at the mention of the "royal six pack" line. Amelie, already in the midst of whining about the embarrassing events of the night before, rolled her eyes in exasperation.

"Princess, this is not a laughing matter," Amelie complained, her frustration evident.

Stacy, still grinning, replied, "Come on, Amelie. You have to admit it's a bit funny. Royal six pack, who comes up with these things?"

Amelie, unwilling to concede to the humor, sighed deeply. "Princess Stacy, last night's antics were far from amusing. You need to realize the gravity of your actions and the image it projects to the entire kingdom."

Stacy, now more serious, nodded in understanding. "I get it, Amelie. I messed up. I'll try to be more careful in the future."

Amelie, though still visibly embarrassed, appreciated Stacy's acknowledgment. "Well, at least that's a start. Let's work on avoiding such incidents, shall we?"

“Amelie…” Stacy pouts.

“What is it this time?” Her attache asks, Amelie was also nursing a headache with Stacy’s antics. 

“I feel sick. I think i’m going to vomit.” 

—

As Stacy found herself alone in the luxurious solitude of her chambers, a sense of disenchantment settled over her. The weight of the day's encounters, the critical gaze of Queen Ming, and the echoes of tradition clashing with her evolving role as a princess weighed heavily on her shoulders.

She stood before the ornate mirror, her reflection surrounded by the opulence of the room, and couldn't help but feel a profound sense of inadequacy. The polished surface seemed to reflect not just her physical image but also the expectations and judgments of the royal world she had entered.

A sigh escaped her lips, and she sank into an intricately carved chair, her thoughts swirling with doubts and uncertainties. The grandeur of the palace, once enchanting, now felt like a gilded cage. The journey from a simple baker in Chicago to a princess in Belgravia seemed like an insurmountable leap, and Stacy couldn't shake off the feeling that she was falling short of the mark.

The vibrant spirit that had propelled her through the challenges in Chicago now faced the formidable walls of royal protocol and expectation. As she traced the delicate patterns of the chair with her fingertips, a sense of disillusionment crept in, threatening to dim the spark that had fueled her resilience.

In the midst of everything, Stacy grappled with the internal turmoil of finding her place in a world that seemed determined to define her by its own standards. The journey toward acceptance and self-discovery appeared daunting, and for a moment, the princess found herself disheartened in the midst of the regal splendor that surrounded her.

Determined to prove herself and overcome the shadows of doubt that lingered after the encounter with Queen Ming, Stacy threw herself into the next round of royal lessons with unwavering resolve. However, her determination led her to push herself to the limits, especially in the realm of royal etiquette.

Under Amelie's watchful eye, the lessons delved into the intricate dance of formalities, the correct way to address dignitaries, and the nuances of diplomatic etiquette. Stacy, fueled by a desire to excel, absorbed every detail with a fervor that bordered on obsession.

Days turned into nights as Stacy tirelessly practiced curtsies, perfected table manners, and memorized the elaborate protocols of royal gatherings. The palace halls echoed with the sound of her footsteps as she tirelessly moved from one etiquette lesson to another. Amelie, recognizing Stacy's dedication, also sensed the strain it was placing on her. The constant pressure to conform to rigid standards began to take a toll on Stacy's vibrant spirit. Dark circles formed under her eyes, and the once-lustrous energy that defined her was gradually replaced by a sense of weariness.

She also finds Stacy asleep in the library in the wee hours of the morning. Amelie sees her dedication, she’d give her that.

One evening, after an exhaustive session on the art of small talk and social pleasantries, Stacy found herself alone in her chambers. She stood before the mirror, staring at her reflection with a mix of determination and frustration. The stark contrast of Belgravian royal fashion towards her normal Chicago attire seemed to carry the weight of expectations, and for a moment, Stacy felt suffocated by the regal attire.

In that moment of solitude, Stacy confronted the reality of her journey. The quest for perfection in every gesture and word had pushed her to the brink, threatening to erode the authenticity that made her who she was. As she peeled off the layers of formality, Stacy questioned whether she could truly find harmony between the demands of royalty and the essence of her true self. The struggle for acceptance, both within the palace walls and within herself, unfolded as a complex acceptance of identity and expectation.

[heykav]

The Princess Switch

[ad_1]

About

The Princess Switchis a Netflix Christmas-themed film starring Vanessa Hudgens playing two lead roles: Stacy DeNovo, an American baker from Chicago, and Lady Margaret Delacourt, Duchess of Montenaro. The two characters, upon realizing they look identical, switch places, leading Stacy to fall in love with the Prince of Belgravia, to whom Margaret is betrothed, and Margaret to fall…

[somethingqueerisgoingonhere]

The Princess Switch

Stacy DeNovo and Lady Margaret Delacourt, Duchess of Montenaro (played by Vanessa Hudgens), they are not twins and yet are identical

[lstxrks]

- the princess switch 2 icons

⭏ like or reblog if you save

[epicmeetsfail]

Priceless Play – 15 December 2018 https://ift.tt/2QWF6V8

Is there anything quite so glorious as being right? The smug playground-satisfaction of pulling out an “I told you so,” or (even better) the long-con revenge of living well? Of course, every good thing has its price. For every instance of being right, there must exist an equal and opposite instance of being wrong. The less enjoyable forfeit of “You were right, and I was wrong. Vanessa Hudgens does play her doppelgänger, Lady Margaret Delacourt, Duchess of Montenaro in hit Netflix original film The Princess Switch, and she doesn’t have a heretofore unknown identical twin.” Sometimes it stings to be wrong. But it means you put yourself out there — and that’s commendable.

When we’re having trouble juggling responsibilities, decisions, and judgement, our good friend Video Games comes in. For some, the holidays are looming ahead. For another few, this means spending time with family. Your experiences could run the gamut! Tensions might be running high. Maybe you need to practice admitting you were wrong. Or maybe you need to practice being right. Maybe you just need a break from deciding anything at all. For whatever you need, I hope here lies the remedy. You decide.

(more…)

December 15, 2018 at 07:37AM