Throughout it all, the prince remained almost completely silent.
By the time most of the women had completed their attempts, a servant announced the name of the final contestant.
The daughter of one of the counts stepped forward.
Her name was Eleanor.
She was different from the other women. Eleanor weighed approximately 286 pounds and had a large, heavyset figure. Throughout her life, she had endured cruel remarks and ridicule because of her appearance.
The moment she appeared among the other women, several began exchanging mocking glances.
“Did she actually come here hoping to become the prince’s wife?” whispered a blonde woman wearing a silver dress.
Her friend giggled.
“Apparently. If I were her, I wouldn’t even have the courage to walk into the center of the room.”
Eleanor heard every word, but she continued walking.
When the women realized she was heading directly toward the golden sphere, their laughter grew louder.
“Wait a moment,” one contestant said mockingly. “Are we sure that thing can even support her?”
