The Queen said something unexpected. I never thought this meeting was about the gift, as I thought it was just a regular introduction.
" Gift? " I said in a surprising tone.
"Yes, Did you really think we would come empty-handed for your introduction ceremony to the
world? It has already been discussed and decided among all the family members. We will be giving you your own estate as a gift." She said while others nodded to her words.
" House? is really okay? I am still young to own property; besides, If I really want one, I could buy it myself. No offense to you. " I said.
" We already know about your recent records, but I thought it would be nice for you to have one close to the heart of the city of London. Besides, the one we offer is not something you can buy with money. Something is bought with reputation. Always remember that. " She said, hinting something.
I also realized my mistake. People cannot overwrite history and gloss over the strength of an empire. You need time, dedication, and sufficient force to create a reputation and recognition. Influential people control most of the prime location anywhere in the world. People who hold extraordinary power both in government and over regular people.
I nodded, which made her smile.
" You really are a smart one. Anyway, the location is west of London in Surrey." she proceeded to tell me more about this home.
In 1997, the Queen gifted Princess Beatrice and Eugenie a £1.5million home in Surrey. Trustees acting on behalf of the Queen, purchased the Grade II-listed property named Birch Hall. Still, the princesses never actually moved in after their mother reportedly worried she could not afford the upkeep and running costs. Instead, the family continued to live at Sarah and Prince Andrew's former marital home, Sunninghill Park.
The Georgian mansion, which stands on 5 acres with vast lawns and gardens and has a tennis court and a pool, is truly fit for a princess.
Birch Hall boasts 7 bedrooms, 4 bathrooms, and 5 living spaces -- including a gorgeous "summer room." It has charm, the charm of its 1740 origins, but also modern updates for comfortable living in the country. The property has a two-bedroom cottage, making guests feel at home.
I also matched my knowledge from the source.
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It's said that the Duchess refused, claiming the upkeep would be too expensive, so the home was later sold for $2.2 million in a private sale. The money from the sale reportedly went into a fund for the Princesses, who were 9 and 10 at the time, and the family that owned it has now listed it for 3 times as much.
I can't accept such an expensive gift. There is also the matter of the princess' trust fund. Gifting the house will surely put a dent in the future funds.
"It's probably one of the best of north Surrey's village houses; not many come on the market. It's a good country house with five acres of grounds. The house itself is a lovely and imposing-looking property. Some rooms are dramatic, with high ceilings and full floor-to-ceiling sash windows. It's got a swimming pool, tennis court, and beautiful specimen trees dating from Victorian times in the garden." Philip added.
" It is too expensive of a gift. I can't accept it, and you must also consider the princess's future. This is supposed to be a gift for them." I said with honesty.
" You are humble, but you don't have to worry about the details. With your talent, you can take care of it in the future. You should accept it, or else I must use my royal privileges." She threatened with a mild tone.
" Sami, don't worry about it. Queen is not a simple character who will suffer a loss voluntarily. " Mother whispered in a low voice.
I nodded and accepted my fate.
" I accept the gift. " I replied positively to the Queen.
We spent some more time discussing the details while Zara and Mary constantly argued in the back. It was becoming a headache, so we decided to finalize the meeting and went out of the room dragging Aunt along with us.
But as soon as we left the Queen's presence, my mother pulled me aside to inform me that her father was waiting for me next. I sighed and followed her to a separate area where I could see three figures sitting comfortably with a wide array of delicacies. They had selected a few bites while waiting.
" Father, I have brought Samuel as requested, but you have to promise not to scare him. " Mother said, reminding him of their prior arrangement.
" What are you talking about? Am I that scary? Children always love me to death. I still remember you following me around every day like a puppy. " Nathaniel said, teasing.
" What? I don't remember doing such a thing. Don't make us lies to facilitate your narrative." The mother is slightly embarrassed about the whole conversation.
" It seems that I have to call your mother to confirm it. Speaking of your mother, when are you planning to tell her about this situation? You know how she is; She worries a lot. " He said.
" Hmm, I know, but I wanted to tell her in person. You know how she is; I fear that she would fly over in a heartbeat knowing the situation, But I decided to inform her tomorrow and visit her in the near future to quench her worries and further troubles. " Mother replied.
Nathaniel and mother talked about various things forgetting about the other three participants. Miles and Huldah are like sitting ducks in the mother's presence, which surprised me. They are the mother's elder brothers, which should make them show some emotion, but I could clearly see their stone-faced persona. They are entirely still forgetting about the food in front of them.
" Uncle Miles, Uncle Huldah, Is something wrong with the food? I see you have not taken a bite in a while. " I inquired.
" What? " Both exclaimed.
" It is good, it is good. How can it not be delicious? It is your birthday, right? Congratulations. " Miles said hurriedly.
" It is not bad. Not as good-- " He paused, seemingly sensing something but continued, " Happy Birthday. "
It was a weird situation, but I followed his gaze, which was on the mother. I looked at the mother, but she averted her gaze to resume her conversation with her father. It is a bizarre situation that made me perplexed. What's with this weird family dynamic? Did I miss something?
" Anyway. Samuel, I wanted to see you. I know it is late, but the situation was suddenly placed upon me. If I had known earlier, I would have prepared the gift; but now I can only promise you with words to help you if you ever find yourself in such a predicament in the future. That will be my gift to you. " Nathaniel interjected.
" It is more than enough, Mr. Morgan. I will not be hesitant to ask for your help. " I said as a courtesy.
" Please, Samuel, call me grandfather. You will see more of me in the future," he said.
" Yes, Grandfather. " I replied, which made him smile.