Chapter 46: Bridget showcases a turning point in her journey, marked by a bold step toward transformative leadership for Eldorra. After a significant meeting with Rhys, she embarks on a mission to reshape the way her kingdom is governed, moving away from the traditional reliance on fear and control. Rather than accepting the status quo, Bridget takes a radical approach, opting to challenge the norms by addressing the public directly. Three days after her conversation with Rhys, she arranges an unexpected press conference on the northern lawn of the palace, a place that is typically reserved for more formal events. The crowd that gathers includes both journalists and curious onlookers, eager to witness what the young princess has to say. Having already informed her U.S.-based allies of her intentions, she chooses to go ahead with the event alone, shielding them from the potential backlash that might follow her bold declaration.

Bridget’s speech begins with a rare moment of informal tone, a deliberate move that contrasts with the usual gravity expected of her role. She takes the opportunity to share her personal reflections on her journey thus far, discussing the challenges and responsibilities that come with being the future monarch of Eldorra. She openly acknowledges the doubts many people have about her readiness to ascend to the throne, particularly following the unexpected abdication of her brother, Prince Nikolai. Bridget attributes her initial hesitation to these doubts, revealing how they shaped her understanding of her role. Through her travels across Eldorra, she has come into direct contact with the country’s people, learning about their struggles and dreams. This experience has deepened her commitment to moving Eldorra forward while maintaining the traditions that define it, creating a vision for a monarchy that is both progressive and rooted in history.

The heart of Bridget’s address revolves around the Royal Marriages Law, a piece of legislation that she sees as outdated and restrictive. In a move that shocks the crowd, she admits her relationship with Rhys Larsen, once her bodyguard, making her personal life public for the first time. This confession sends ripples through the audience, turning the press conference into a frenzy, and amplifying her message’s significance. Bridget’s willingness to speak openly about her love for Rhys serves as a challenge to the rigid societal expectations that have long been placed on her as a royal. She invites a societal and legislative shift, urging others to reconsider laws that limit personal freedoms in favor of traditional norms. This moment of vulnerability further solidifies her role as a modern monarch, one who is unafraid to break from convention in order to create a more inclusive and just society for her people.

The press conference takes an intriguing turn when Jas, a reporter from The Daily Tea, asks a pointed question regarding the Royal Marriages Law. Bridget takes the opportunity to explain her stance on the matter, calling for a thorough reassessment of the law and advocating for a balance between personal choice and royal duty. She expresses her belief that the monarchy should evolve with the times, reflecting the values of a more modern society. Her compelling mix of logical reasoning, ethical considerations, and personal emotion resonates with those listening, as she emphasizes the importance of love and choice in a world where power and tradition have often been intertwined. Through her response, Bridget not only addresses the pressing issue of the Royal Marriages Law but also subtly invites a larger conversation about the role of the monarchy in the contemporary era. Her unyielding love for Rhys and her determination to reshape the monarchy highlight her strategic thinking and her willingness to challenge long-held beliefs in order to forge a new path for Eldorra.

The press conference marks a critical moment in Bridget’s development as a leader, one that shows both her emotional depth and her intellectual capacity. By choosing to address the public directly and openly, she takes the first step in altering the perception of what it means to be a royal in Eldorra. This chapter demonstrates her growth from a young woman unsure of her place in the world to a confident leader ready to face the challenges ahead. Bridget’s decision to speak out against the Royal Marriages Law reflects her commitment to creating a society where personal choices are valued, and where the monarchy can thrive alongside a more inclusive and progressive culture. As the chapter closes, the ripple effects of Bridget’s speech are felt across the kingdom, signaling that the winds of change are beginning to stir, and with them, the promise of a new era for Eldorra.