Standing before the towering wrought-iron gates, I hold up my hands for quiet.

My parents, and William, and Alfie may think me a pawn, but I know the rules of this game as well as all of them. And now they’ve pushed me to play.

“Ever since I can remember, I knew I was going to be the queen one day,” I project in a steady voice. “Some people might have found the idea intimidating. Not me. I love this country, and everyone in it. Other children might dream of the chance to change the world, but I knew one day I would have that chance. I have been given the opportunities, and privilege, and tools to make a difference. When I was small, I planned my future reign the way some children might plan their future wedding.”

They have no idea what’s coming. The microphones are tilted my way, and the faces are eager but not yet stunned.

“Then I grew a little older, and my dreams were shattered. I realized that as much as I wanted to serve my country, this country would never want me to serve it as I was. At first, I tried to find a way for it to work out. I placed rules on myself. I had every faith that I could comply with those rules. But I don’t want to ignore who I am anymore. Not even for the country that I love so much.”

I open my mouth to continue, but nothing comes out. They’re waiting expectantly for the words I can’t believe I’m about to allow to leave my lips. The words that are going to change the course of everything.

Because I decide the current. I do.

“I am a lesbian,” I say, and the world falls silent. I step forward into that silence. Let me be unflinching. “That fact does not reduce my worth, or my capabilities. It is not a point of shame, and I’m certain it has no effect on my ability to serve you as I was raised to believe I someday would. If I am still afforded the opportunity, I will give myself to all of you, gladly, until the day I die. But it will be myself I give, as I am. Not a version of me I am only pretending to be. If I must be forced to lie about who I am at my core in order to be accepted, then I will not be accepted. There are others who will perform my role splendidly, and who will make you proud. If I cannot make you proud, then I will listen and abide. But I very much hope to serve you as queen one day.”