A Royal Christmas Ball 2017

Leo reveals he's a prince and invites Emily to Christmas in Cordinia

During a visit in Philadelphia, Leo discloses that he is actually Prince Leopold of Cordinia. He explains his royal duties and the expectations of a future consort. He then invites Emily to join him for the Christmas holidays, and they travel together to his country.

Arrival in Cordinia and royal introduction

Emily and Leo arrive in Leopold's country for the Christmas holidays and are welcomed at the castle. She meets Queen Isadora, who immediately disapproves of the commoner in her son’s life. The royal ambiance makes Emily feel out of place, hinting at the challenging season ahead.

Queen's plan to pair Leo with Duchess Natasha

The Queen schemes to have Leo marry the duchess Natasha instead of Emily, believing Natasha is a more suitable match. She goes out of her way to make Emily feel unwelcome at the castle. The tension between Emily and the royal household grows quickly.

Emily befriends townsfolk and Poppy

While exploring with Leopold, Emily befriends Poppy, a local orphan girl, and starts to feel the warmth of ordinary life beyond palace walls. She also meets Galina, the Baroness of Newbury, who reveals she herself was once a commoner. Poppy’s presence softens the royal distance.

Galina’s support and commoner past revealed

Galina, the Baroness of Newbury, befriends Emily and reveals her own humble beginnings, offering guidance and kinship. She also quickly warms to Poppy and becomes a supportive ally for the newcomer. The bond deepens the sense that royal privilege can be navigated with kindness.

Etiquette training and the ball dress

With the help of head butler Victor, Emily is tutored in royal etiquette to prepare for a formal gathering. She secretly designs a dress for the ball using the Queen’s old gown, a bold act that signals her creative resilience. The ball becomes a flashpoint for Emily's acceptance into the royal scene.

The Christmas ball and the firing of staff

Emily makes a grand entrance at the Christmas ball, showcasing her gown and grace. The Queen, however, discovers her talking with two kitchen staff and reacts by firing them on the spot. The moment sharpens the rift between Emily and her hosts.

Leo proposes and Emily declines

Following the ball, Leo asks Emily to marry him, hoping to secure their future. Feeling she doesn't truly fit into royal life, Emily declines his proposal and decides to return to America. The heartbreak signals a temporary end to their romance.

Queen confronts her past and seeks redemption

The Queen realizes the hurt she has caused and remembers her own long-ago love for Victor, who she rejected for being a commoner. Troubled by her actions, she resolves to repair the damage. She travels with Leopold and Victor back to Philadelphia to make amends.

Second proposal and Emily’s acceptance in Philadelphia

Back in Philadelphia, Leo proposes again, and this time Emily accepts, moved by the Queen's change of heart and the prospect of building a life beyond royalty's expectations. The couple begins to lay the groundwork for a united future. Emily's decision reflects a reconciliation of love with shared values.

Wedding preparations and Poppy's presence

Leopold and Emily marry in a ceremony that includes Poppy as a guest, a symbol of Emily’s chosen family. The Baron and Baroness of Newbury are said to have adopted Poppy, bringing a new sense of belonging to the group. The wedding marks a bridge between their two worlds.