by Alex Tryst

Dedication & Author's Note: See Chapter 1.

Feedback: Drop me a line if you’d like at alextryst@e-scribblers.com.

Copyright © June, 2008 by Alex Tryst. All Rights Reserved.

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Over the course of the next several weeks Lauren and Alexa were inseparable. Every spare moment they had, they spent it together. Most of the time was spent exploring the new aspects of their relationship, but on many occasions they also discussed Lauren’s future career plans. At the pilot’s urging she had started searching for possible positions in the DC area, not knowing that the princess had already been doing research of her own on the topic.

A week before Alexa’s birthday the two were having dinner at the librarian’s house. “I really cannot believe I have had such good response to my resume,” the redhead mentioned. “I thought for sure it was going to be more difficult than this to job hunt from so far away, but so far things are going well. I have several interviews lined up for while we are in DC next week.”

“I am glad to hear that. I am so pleased you agreed to come to my birthday party as well. It would not be the same without you, darling.”

“Well, I admit that I am still concerned about it. I mean after all, it will be mostly royals from all over the world.”

“True but I have invited my entire flight school classmates, except for Hollywood that is, and all of them are coming. It would be boring without them and you. You will know enough people to have fun. I promise.”

“I believe you. I still wish you had not bought me that dress, though, without consulting me first,” she mentioned, wagging her finger at her lover.

“Why not? Do you not like it?”

“You know I love it. That is not the point.”

“I know. I just did not want you to be able to use that as an excuse.”

“Still I do not like other people making my decisions for me.”

“I had to just this once. I could not make it through that evening without you.”

“And what of your mother?”

“Do not think on her. You are a charming beautiful woman, and everyone will adore you as much as I do.”

Lauren shook her head. “I highly doubt that with all the trash people write about me these days. Popular press believes I am pure evil.”

“Well, I do not, and I believe my opinion is the only one that matters,” Alexa stated. Reaching to her lover’s hand, she caressed it gently. “I love you, Lauren, and that is all that should matter.”

The older woman nodded her head, but in the back of her mind, she knew there was the possibility of not being greeted warmly at the party. Even though she had grown accustomed to seeing her face in the papers whenever she was around the princess, it still hurt to see that the world thought negatively about her simply for following her heart. Furthermore, she knew she was the other woman in the heir’s life. She couldn’t bring herself to accept the fact that in public Alexa belonged to someone else, even though you would hardly know that by the aviator’s lack of interest in her girlfriend Meredith.

Deciding to change the subject, Lauren asked, “Are we still leaving on Thursday?”

“Yes. You, George, and I are flying back on Thursday evening, and the others are joining us Friday. All of you are staying at the same hotel near the palace and are free to do whatever you choose for the evening. The party is on Saturday night, and then everyone flies back Sunday except the three of us who return to Florida Monday afternoon. That leaves you two whole days to interview. Do you think that is enough time?”

“If it is not, I can always fly back by myself later in the week. I really am hoping that one of these positions will work out, though. From the phone interviews I have had, they would be perfect.”

“Well, I know any place would be lucky to have you. You would add something to any organization.”

Smiling at the princess, Lauren replied, “Thanks. That means a lot coming from you.”

The following Thursday the two royals and Lauren boarded the royal jet to head to DC. However, instead of returning to the palace like she was supposed to, Alexa decided to stay the night at the hotel with Lauren. She knew she was in for a fight with her mother as soon as she saw her and wanted to delay it in favor of intimate time with the woman she loved. As Friday morning dawned, though, and the librarian prepared for her interviews, Alexa knew the time was at hand. Standing at the door of the hotel, she looked down into blue eyes that she adored and sighed.

“You are going to be fabulous today. Just remember you have the skills and the experience. They would be lucky to have you. Do not accept anything less than of what you are worthy.”

“I will remember. Thank you, Lex. Will I see you tonight?”

The princess nodded. “I could not stay away. I will call you this evening.”

Heading home Alexa knew a fight awaited her, so she mentally tried to prepare herself for what might happen with her mother. As soon as she arrived, Matthew greeted her at the entrance and stated, “The queen has requested your presence immediately upon your arrival. I am to escort you to her office.”

“No need. I know the way.”

“I know that, your highness. She asked me to bring you, so you do not stray on your way there.”

The princess sighed but walked with her secretary to her mother’s office. She knocked and then opened the door at her mother’s request. Entering the room, she closed the door and then stood at attention in front of the queen.

“Well, you finally decided to show your face at home,” she grumbled. “I expected you last night.”

“I had business to attend, Mother. It could not be avoided.”

Queen Faith threw the first section of the newspaper at her, and it landed at her feet. “I can see that for myself! Yet again you find yourself in the company of this woman, Lauren Fulton! She is here? She has traveled with you on the royal jet to DC?”

“Yes. She will be attending my birthday party tomorrow evening with the rest of my friends from the base.”

“And just how do you intend to explain that to Meredith? How will you explain that to the press?”

“Lauren is my friend. Is it so wrong to have friends, Mother?”

“She is no friend! Do not think me naive, Alexa! According to the papers, you spend every available moment of your leave with this woman! On more than one occasion, you have been seen kissing this woman intimately! Do not deny your behavior to your own mother! I know you better than the media even does! I strongly advise you to rethink your actions of inviting her to the palace!”

“Mother, I cannot retract my invitation. That would be rude and inappropriate behavior for a person of my status.”

“I would think you of all people would want to spare your friend any pain that might be associated with such an evening!”

“Why? It is just a birthday party.”

The queen shook her head as she stood from the chair behind her desk. She moved to her daughter and paused a few feet from her. She gave Alexa a serious gaze. “It is no longer just a birthday party, Alexa. It is now an engagement party. I have planned it myself. I will be announcing your engagement to Lady Adams tomorrow night at the ball.”

“You will not!” the princess yelled. “You promised me I would have the rest of the summer!”

“Yes but that was before you decided to pursue this other woman! This will put an end to the rumors for good! I will salvage what is left of our family name before you run us into the ground with your debauchery! Now there is a ring in your safe! You will take it to Meredith and propose to her before tomorrow evening, or I will do it for you in front of the whole world tomorrow night! Are we clear on that, Alexa?”

“Mother, I do not wish to do such a thing!”

“I do not care what you wish! You have no say any longer because of your actions these last several weeks! As your queen I demand your conformance since I cannot get it from you as your mother!”

There was a pause as the princess contemplated her options. Knowing there were none, she nodded in concession of her defeat. “Very well, your majesty. It shall be done.”

“Good. I promise you, Alexa, once you are married, you will be glad I made you do this. This is the right thing. You will come to see that in time.”

Alexa didn’t comment on the statement. She simply nodded her head and mumbled, “Good day, Mother.” Going to her own office, she found Matthew sitting there waiting for her. She ignored him for the moment, though and went to her safe to pull out the ring. She sat at her desk and regarded it for long minutes, imagining for just a moment that the ring in her hand found its way onto the finger of another woman instead of the one for which it was intended. The thought gave Alexa great happiness, but she knew it was not to be and frowned.

Turning to her secretary, who was obviously waiting for instructions from her, she said, “Matthew, I need you to do something for me. I want you to find me a set of diamond earrings and necklace. I want something classic and glamorous, and I need it here by tomorrow night.”

“Certainly, Lex. I will get right on that.”

“Also, I need to meet with Lady Adams. Set up a time for us to meet at her apartment this morning or early afternoon. Impress upon her the importance of an immediate meeting if you must.”

“It will be done.”

“Thank you. I will be in my quarters if you need me.”

Once in her room, Alexa picked up the phone and called the hotel where Lauren was staying. She knew she was not in, which made it a bit easier for her to leave the message that she would be unavailable to see her that evening but would stop by in the morning. Then she waited for her fate to unfold.

Afternoon found her at Meredith’s apartment. The butler had let her in even though the brunette had not arrived yet. It gave Alexa a moment to try to figure out what she was to say to the woman she was about to ask for her hand. However, nothing came to mind as she paced the study. Figuring it would come to her when she saw Lady Adams, she simply decided to wing it. A few minutes later the door opened and in floated the younger woman. During her absence, Alexa had forgotten how enchanting Meredith could be, and that attractive smile and adoring eyes brought her back to the Kentucky Derby for a moment when they were standing alone in the grove of trees. Her thoughts were interrupted as arms came around her neck.

“It is so good to see you, Lex,” she greeted, pulling Alexa’s head down for a scorching kiss. “I have missed you so much.”

“And I have missed you,” the princess replied.

Once their initial greeting was over, they both sat on the sofa. Meredith cuddled into her girlfriend’s frame as she mentioned, “Matthew said you wanted to see me. May I inquire why?”

Alexa gave a tentative smile as she extracted herself. Meeting eyes with her girlfriend, she answered, “Certainly. This is why I asked to see you.” She pulled the ring box from her pant’s pocket. Unceremoniously she pulled the ring from its resting place and looked into her girlfriend’s dark eyes. “As you know, Mere, tomorrow the country celebrates my twenty-sixth birthday. Tomorrow night there will be a ball at the palace, and at that time an announcement will be made that I have chosen a bride as a way to honor the country that has given me so much. You know as well as I do there could only be one choice for such a lady. So today I come before you to ask for your hand. Please honor the country and me by saying yes. Lady Meredith Adams, will you marry me?” she slowly inquired. She saw her answer in dark eyes before Meredith said anything. Tears streamed down the teenager’s face as she pulled Alexa into a tight hug.

“Oh, yes, I will marry you, Lex. I thought this moment might never come. It has been my greatest desire to be your wife.”

“Then let us make it official,” the princess said, slipping the ring onto Meredith’s left hand. She then kissed it as she said, “To our happiness, my future princess.”

That evening when Lauren arrived back at the hotel after a long day of interviews, she was surprised and disappointed to receive Alexa’s message. Furthermore, she could tell just by her lover’s voice that something was the matter. Knowing she would not be able to find out what until the next day, though, she decided to treat herself to a lavish dinner and a soak in her hot tub as she thought over all her meetings that day.

Her interviews had gone better than expected, and she felt sure she would get an offer from at least one library. She contemplated what that might mean for her. Her dream of leaving her childhood behind was closer to coming to fruition, and she was happy for the first time in her life that she could remember. She knew a large part of it was because of the woman with whom she had fallen in love. The love she felt from Alexa was by far the best thing that had ever happened to her. However, it was at a moment like this, sitting in a hotel otherwise out of reach to anyone other than the wealthiest in the country, that Lauren realized with whom she was dealing. The woman who had her heart was the hope of the nation. She was the future queen, and being that was her position in life, she had responsibilities that might one day conflict with their blossoming love. In fact, even though she would never dare admit it to anyone, she knew there would be a time not in the distance future when the love of her life would be taken from her by duty. Lauren desperately tried not to dwell on such thoughts, but she knew they were always there lurking in the back of her mind. For the moment, though, she tried to keep the pain at bay by focusing on the love she knew existed between them.

On Saturday morning Alexa arrived at the hotel early. She had hardly slept the night before with what was weighing on her mind. She knew what she had to tell her lover was going to hurt her, and it pained her to know she had to inflict such torment on the one she loved so much. Nevertheless, it was her responsibility to her country to sacrifice herself, much in the same manner her grandmother had sacrificed. Except instead of dying a physical death for her love, Alexa only had to suffer the infliction of pain on herself and her beloved Lauren.

Entering the suite with her key, she noted that the redhead was not yet awake. She went to the bedroom to find her beautiful blue eyes still closed and the rhythm of her slumber peaceful. Alexa gently lay down next to her lover on the bed and placed an arm around her waist. Her name fell from Lauren’s lips in her sleep as the librarian turned toward the source of heat next to her. Several minutes passed before blue eyes sleepily opened, and Alexa received a pretty smile.

“You are back. I missed you.”

“I missed you too, Lauren. I am sorry I could not come sooner.”

“Happy birthday, Lex.”

“Thank you,” she whispered, stroking red hair gently. She kissed Lauren’s forehead sweetly.

Sensing something was still amiss, Lauren inquired, “What seems to be troubling you?”

“I need to talk to you about something serious, and I am not sure how.”

“Just tell me. That is the best way.”

“I will, but I think we should have breakfast first. Allow me to order us something. You freshen up and meet me in the dining room.”

Lauren did as requested. She could tell whatever it was truly was weighing heavily on her lover, though. By the time she came into the dining room from taking a quick shower, breakfast was already there. The two women sat quietly eating, but both of them really just pushed the food around their plates instead of consuming it.

Finally when she could take no more, the librarian asked, “Will you please just tell me what is wrong? It will make you feel better.”

The princess nodded her head as she put down her fork. “The queen asked me yesterday if you would be attending the ball this evening. I told her you were. She asked me to get you to reconsider.”

“You mean she does not wish me to come?”

“She is indifferent to your attendance, Lauren. However, something is going to happen tonight, something I have dreaded for months. It will be difficult for me, and I fear it will be worse for you, and I do not wish to ever cause you pain.”

“What is supposed to happen tonight?”

Alexa paused and took a deep breath. She did not want to do this, but she knew she had no choice. “My mother is supposed to announce my engagement... to Lady Meredith Adams.”

In that moment Lauren felt her heart shatter. She never knew such pain existed or that it could be delivered in such a decisive manner. She sat there for several moments saying nothing. Just then she had no words. Finally she whispered, “I do not know how to respond.”

“I am not sure what protocol would demand either. Lauren, I want you to know that this in no way reflects what I feel for you. You own my heart. I love you more than I have ever loved anyone else in this entire world. If I could marry you, I would, but the queen would not allow it. It does not change the way I feel, though. I must marry Meredith for the sake of my country, not my happiness. I am a servant of the people, and I must serve the people’s best interest. This is how my queen has asked me to serve.”

The librarian nodded her head. It made perfect sense in her mind, even though her heart ached. Quietly she said, “I understand what you must do, your highness. The dreams of a common woman must not stand in the way of your destiny.”

A few minutes passed before Alexa said, “If you do not wish to come this evening, I will understand. Although I would love to have you there.”

“I do not know if I will attend or not. I have to think about it.”

“I understand. You will still have a driver at your disposal should you choose to attend. I must take leave of you now. I am needed back at the palace. If I do not see you this evening, I would like to see you tomorrow morning. Please remember, Lauren, that I love you. Nothing can change that.”

Lauren nodded her head but didn’t respond further. Once the princess was gone, tears began to fall like a waterfall down her face. She didn’t even know how she could cry so much over someone she had only for a few weeks, but then again she had never given her heart to anyone before, and the pain of love was greater than she ever had imagined.

When the evening hour of the ball arrived, Alexa was standing in her bedroom looking at herself in the mirror. The day had been the second most miserable of her life just behind the day her beloved grandmother had passed away. She always thought birthdays were meant for happiness, but this day found her painfully sorrowful. She had hurt the woman she loved more deeply than she could have imagined, and she was being forced to marry someone who could never own her heart. A knock on the door broke her from the mirror where she was regarding her outfit. Answering it she found Meredith standing there in an elegant evening gown.

“You look lovely this evening, Mere,” she complimented.

“And you, my sexy princess, look simply ravishing,” she commented. “I so love suits on you, but this tuxedo might be my new favorite. You look so charming.” Leaning up to her fiancée’s lips, she gave her a peck on the mouth.

“Shall we go?” Alexa asked, extending her arm to her lady.

All the guests had already arrived for the evening when the royal family was set to process into the ballroom. As was custom, the guests lined up on either side of the doorway to pay their respects to the family as they came in. Alexa usually processed alone, but that night found her bride-to-be on her arm as she waited for her turn.

Matthew opened the doors for the family and began his duty of calling out their names. The long lists of aunts, uncles, and cousins came first, followed by her brother. “His Royal Highness Prince George and Her Royal Highness Princess Kelly.” Alexa watched as her brother and his wife took the slow entrance walk down to the head table. Taking a deep breath, she cast a look at Meredith, who looked more excited than nervous at her first formal event as a family member. “Her Royal Highness Princess Alexa and Lady Meredith Adams,” Matthew called, signaling their turn. Alexa put on the smile she knew was mandatory and began their walk. She took little note of the heads as they bowed to her until she noticed the top of a familiar red head. For a moment her heart stopped, for she couldn’t believe it to be true. Nonetheless, as soon as the woman raised her head, blue eyes met brown ones, and Alexa felt as if she might faint. There was Lauren looking more beautiful than the princess had ever seen her. For a brief moment the air around them seemed nonexistent, and Alexa found it difficult to breathe. Knowing what she was supposed to do, the princess forced herself to look forward once again in an effort not to let on who Lauren was in the crowd. She knew she had not been successful, though, when she felt a glare come from Meredith once they were at the table. Neither had time to discuss it, though, as Matthew announced, “Her Majesty Queen Faith and His Royal Highness Prince Thomas.” Watching her mother process, Alexa hoped she would not see Lauren amongst the crowd, but she knew the redhead had been spotted with a barely discernable flutter of her mother’s eyes in Lauren’s direction.

Throughout the meal Alexa could hardly concentrate on the royal families from other countries. Her mind and gaze continually sought Lauren out in the crowd. She was at a table with the other pilots from the Top Gun competition, seeming to enjoy herself. Once dinner was finished, the dance floor opened with her parents taking the first spin around the floor. Knowing her duty, she took Meredith to the floor for several songs as well until the gathering was all dancing. After filling that obligation, she made her rounds to socialize, leaving Meredith to do the same. Finally reaching the table where Lauren was supposed to be, she was disappointed when one of her friends informed her she was off dancing. Looking to the floor, it took her by surprise to find the redhead in the arms of her brother, the prince.

“So, Lauren, I must say, I am surprised at your presence this evening,” George commented.

“That makes two of us. I was not sure I was going to come after what has happened.”

“Lex told you what our mother had made her do.”

“She told me.”

“I would hope you know that it does not mean she loves you any less. She loves you like I have never seen her love anyone. You make her happy, Lauren. She just is obligated to live her life for her country.”

“I know all that. I do not doubt her love for me, but that does not make it any less painful.”

He nodded. “I am sure you are correct. I would never wish to be in your place.” Pausing for a moment, he continued, “I know I cannot tell you what to do in regards to this situation, but I do hope that you will continue your relationship with my sister. She needs you, Lauren. You make her happy. I know you two may never have a conventional love affair, but she deserves happiness, and you provide her that.”

“And I should just forfeit my own dreams of marriage and children, George? I do not believe I have it in me to sacrifice my life, my dreams, my world just to be the mistress of the most powerful princess in the world. I am not sure I could live with that.”

“I do suppose that is a bit much to ask. However, you could still have your dreams and Lex. It is possible.”

“Maybe in the world in which you live, George. I just am not sure I can have that in mine. Only time will tell I suppose.”

“I guess that is the best response one could hope for at this point. May I request you give consideration to Lex during this time? She has a difficult task ahead of her, one she would rather not undertake. I implore you to remain her friend and comfort her during her time of need. Please?”

Lauren nodded her head. “I could never abandon a friend in their time of need,” she conceded.

Just then there was a tap on George’s shoulder. Alexa gave them both a smile. “Pardon me, George. May I cut in? I cannot have you monopolizing the most beautiful woman at the ball.”

George looked at Lauren who gave a nod of her acceptance, so he relinquished her into his sister’s arms. As the two women began to dance, silence ensued for a few awkward moments. To break it, though, Alexa complimented, “You look beautiful, Lauren, more so than I have ever seen you.”

“Thank you.”

Another pause before the princess said, “I am glad you are here. This night is more bearable with you in it. I know this must be difficult for you. It is for me, Lauren. When I saw you standing there as I walked in, I wanted to throw myself at your feet and beg you for forgiveness for the pain I may have caused you. It was never my intention.”

“I know, Lex. I know in my heart that you have never wanted to hurt me. But the fact remains that I am hurt.”

“Yes,” the princess sighed. “For that I am and always will be sorry.” Before the conversation could go any further, the music gently faded into nothing, signaling a shift in the evening. Looking toward the head table, Alexa saw her mother stand up with a glass of champagne in her hand. Knowing where she had to be just then, she whispered, “Excuse me.”

“If you would all take your seats, dessert will be served. At this time, I have something to say to my daughter on this special occasion, so, Alexa, please come stand next to me,” the queen requested. Alexa did as she was told, recognizing this was the moment she had feared for the last two days. “Alexa, being that today is your twenty-sixth birthday, I want to take a moment to tell you how proud I am of you as your mother and your queen. You have shown all of us here in one form or another why it is you will be the next great leader of this country, and I just want to formally announce to all of our family and friends the illustrious decision you just recently made.” She paused for a moment, shifting her gaze from her daughter to her audience. “I would like to take the opportunity to announce to you all that the princess is engaged to be married. She has chosen a wonderful woman who is a distinguished complement to her. This is a special night as we welcome a new member into our family. Please join me in embracing Lady Meredith Adams. It is these two women who hold the future of our great country in their hands.”

A roar of clapping commenced as Alexa and Meredith accepted their standing ovation. Even though no one considered the announcement a surprise, the amount of support through the noise assured Alexa that her people approved of the choice that had been made for her by the queen. She did her best to smile for the crowd and appear happy as her eyes scanned the onlookers. However, she noticed the woman she loved in the crowd trying to make her way through the sea of people to the exit. Alexa knew there was nothing she could do at that moment to retrieve her, but she cast a look at her brother who nodded in her direction. She took that as a sign that he saw it as well. She watched him move slowly over to where Matthew was standing off to the side and whisper something to him. Immediately her secretary exited the side door.

Lauren wasn’t sure where she was going, only that she needed to get as far away as she could from the commotion in the ballroom. Even though she knew what was to happen, to see it for herself was harder than she ever thought possible. The tears seemed impossible to stop as she scurried down a long hallway away from the noise. When she had turned the corner out of sight, she leaned against a wall and tried to compose herself. However, she jumped when she heard a deep clearing of a voice next to her.

“Forgive me, Ms. Fulton. I did not mean to frighten you. My name is Matthew Franks. I am Princess Alexa’s Secretary of Affairs. I was wondering if I might be of assistance to you.”

“I was just looking for a place to myself for a moment. There was too much going on, and I needed some air.”

“Of course. I understand. Perhaps I may escort you to the library. There is a veranda there if you would like some fresh air. It is just this way,” he said pointing down the corridor.

“Thank you, Mr. Franks.”

“Matthew,” he corrected with a smile. Walking her to the room, he opened the door for her and turned on the lights. “Take all the time you need, Ms. Fulton. When you are ready to return to the party, I will be right here to escort you back.”

“Thank you but that is not necessary.”

“I insist,” he said, closing the door behind her.

Lauren tried to calm herself but the tears still came. Although they began to slow as her eyes surveyed the room. The library in which she stood was filled with books floor to ceiling. Her eyes roamed the expanse, and she found herself naturally intrigued as she began to study the shelves. Coming to the first shelf, she picked up an old unlabeled book and opened it to the first page. The name Lara Washington was on the inside cover written in legible script. Curious the librarian flipped through the first few pages. It took Lauren a moment to realize she was holding not a book from the recently deceased queen mother but her private diary. For a moment she contemplated whether or not it was appropriate to read such personal thoughts of the queen mother, but she figured if it was not meant to be read, it would not have been on the shelf. Beginning with the first page, she immediately found herself immersed in the writing. The first page was of her wedding day to who was then Princess Alexa, soon to become the country’s first queen. Lauren was so lost in the pages that she didn’t know how much time had passed or hear the library door open, but she jumped at the sound of her name.

Looking up she saw her lover, the grandchild of the woman about whom she had been reading standing there with concern clearly written on her face. Quickly shutting the book, the librarian tried not to act guilty at what she had just been reading a surprising and deeply unsettling account of Queen Alexa on their honeymoon.

Intrigued by the look on Lauren’s face, Alexa forgot the reason she had come to her at first and asked, “What are you reading?”

“I am terribly sorry, Lex. Matthew allowed me to come in here, and this was just sitting on the shelf.”

The princess took it from the redhead’s hands. “My grandmother’s diary. I had wondered where these had gone. I knew she wrote in her diary everyday. I never thought to look for them here. Although it does make sense that they be amongst her favorite books. This was her personal library. She was a teacher before she married my grandmother, and she never lost her love for books. She read all the time.” Putting the diary back on the shelf, Alexa put her arms around Lauren. “I just wanted to check on you. I know that was hard.”

At the thought of what had transpired, the redhead felt her eyes start tearing once again, but this time she wept in the arms of her beloved. Alexa could feel her lover’s pain so acutely, and it tore at her soul, causing her tears as well. Together they clung to each other shedding their tears over the event that shook both their lives. It was only when there was a knock on the open door that either broke from the embrace.

“Father,” Alexa greeted in surprise, wiping at her face.

“Alexa, your absence is being noticed. I advise you to return to the ballroom or suffer your mother’s disapproval in the morning.”

“Yes, sir.” The princess gave the woman she loved one last gaze before withdrawing from her arms and leaving the room.

The prince stood there for another moment. “I do not think we have been properly introduced. I am Thomas Jefferson.”

“Lauren Fulton, your highness,” she said with a small bow.

Thomas nodded his head in her direction before saying to Matthew, who was still keeping watch at the door, “Matthew, please close the door, so I may speak to Ms. Fulton in private.”

“Certainly, your highness.”

Lauren looked nervously at the prince when they were alone. She had no idea what he wanted to say to her. “Please have a seat if you would like.” He gestured to the sofa as he took a seat in a leather chair. Tentatively the librarian took the offered seat and just waited. After a moment he began. “Ms. Fulton, I find myself in a bit of a quandary. You see, my wife, my queen has demanded that our daughter Alexa marry Meredith Adams. At first I was for this idea, thinking that it would bring maturity and discipline to my daughter’s life, which she was sorely lacking. However, I have come to realize that my only daughter is actually in love with someone else. I am as surprised by this observation as in awe of it. My Alexa in love. I thought it would never be so, but I look at you, and not only do I know it to be so, I know her love is returned. The quandary is that this love is forbidden to be more than an affair of the heart. I can assume that you are a sensible woman. Alexa would not care for you otherwise. Tell me, Ms. Fulton, what is a father to do in this situation?”

She shook her head. “There is nothing to do, your highness. The course has been set and cannot be altered.”

He nodded. “You are as judicious as I suspected. Please understand me, Ms. Fulton. I do not wish you misery nor do I wish my daughter unhappiness. It is just that the queen has had this course set for years, and I must request you not interfere. I ask for your word.”

Lauren paused for a moment as she contemplated what the prince was saying. She knew she had no choice in the matter, so she replied, “You have my word, your highness. I will not interfere.”

“Thank you for that.” He regarded her for a moment before continuing, “I must tell you, Ms. Fulton, that I have never seen my daughter display such emotion as she does in your presence. I saw you dancing with each other tonight. I know she was trying her best not to show how she felt about you, but fathers know these things. My daughter is in love with you. I have no objections to this love. In fact, I would like to encourage it to grow. Alexa needs someone to love, and if that person is you, it would be wonderful. I know my daughter’s heart. She will provide for you in ways no one else in the world could. She will love you with her entire heart if you let her. I know this must be an arduous situation in which you find yourself, and I cannot tell you what to do. However, I would like to ask that you consider allowing this relationship to continue. This marriage is a political move, nothing more. You have her heart, and in the end that is all that should truly matter.” Not knowing what else to say, the librarian simply nodded her head. “May I escort you back to the ball now?”

“No thank you. I think I should retire for the evening. This party only serves as a reminder to my heart the difficulty in which I find myself.”

“I understand. I will escort you to your car then.” Getting up from his chair, he went to the door. “Matthew, please have Ms. Fulton’s car pulled around front. She is retiring for the evening.”

“Yes, your highness.”

Turning to the redhead, he extended his arm. “Allow me?”

Taking the prince’s arm, Lauren allowed herself to be taken to the front of the palace where a car was waiting on her. “Thank you for walking me.”

“It was my pleasure. Please consider what I have said.”

“I will, your highness.”

“Good. Have a pleasant evening, Ms. Fulton.”

“You too, your highness. Thank you again.”

The next day Alexa headed to breakfast not knowing what to expect from her mother. She had done as she was told, but she sensed some displeasure at her behavior at the ball. Going into the dining room, she found the queen was the only person present. She looked up when the princess entered.

“Well, Alexa, you are up early today.”

“Yes, I had an early appointment.”

“To see that lovely fiancée of yours I hope.”

“No, Mother. I was not planning on seeing Meredith this morning.”

“Then I can only assume it is to see your mistress. You would not rise so early on your own accord.” Alexa said nothing. “I saw her at the ball last night, Alexa. I saw you dancing with her at one point.”

“Yes, Lauren and I were dancing. There is nothing prohibiting me from dancing with my friends.”

“Except I know better than to believe your relationship is platonic.”

The princess shook her head. “I will not deny it, Mother. My feelings for Lauren run deeply. In fact, this may surprise you, but I am in love with her. Seeing as you have engaged me to another woman, friendship is the only appropriate course with my beloved at this point. It pains me to think of the anguish I have inflicted on such a caring woman, but as a servant to my sovereign I was left with no choice other than to heed your direction. However, I will never forget this has happened. I will never forget that my own mother denied me my happiness.”

The queen sighed. “You are young, Alexa, and you know not of what you speak. You are not in love, merely blinded by sexual interest. Time will prove that she means nothing to you. I know once you and Meredith are wed, you will have all you need in your life. You will have the perfect wife who is amiable to catering to your desires. You will be happy with Meredith, and Lauren Fulton will just be a faint memory of the wild royal oats you once had sown. Now I wish to bring closure to this subject. We shall talk of something else. Tell me. How is flight school?”

Enduring her breakfast, the princess made her escape as soon as she was able to go to the hotel where Lauren was staying. Once again she let herself into the room, but that morning found the redhead already awake and partaking in her own breakfast. “Alexa, I did not expect to see you,” she mentioned quietly.

“I had to come. I could not stay away.”

“Why are you in a tuxedo?” the redhead questioned as she gestured to a chair next to her at the table.

“Because I want to relive last night, except instead of it turning out so poorly I wanted to give you the night you deserved, even if it is early in the morning. Please oblige me in my pursuit. Will you do me the honor and put on your ball gown from last night?”

Lauren shook her head tiredly. “I really do not feel like it, Lex.”

“Please. There was something I wanted to give you, but the gift only makes sense with the dress.”

She sighed. “Oh very well. I will return shortly.”

While her lover was gone, Alexa moved into the living room area and turned on the stereo. She found the station she was looking for and then waited, standing by the window with her hands in her pants pockets. Her heart was already fluttering at the thought of seeing Lauren in that beautiful dress once again. Minutes later she got her wish. The librarian came from the bedroom wearing her dress sans shoes. Her red hair had been freshly brushed and hung loose around her shoulders. The princess crossed the room to her, her eyes never leaving the blue ones.

“You are too beautiful for words, darling. My heart feels as if will pound out of my chest at the sight of you. You are the most incredible thing I have ever seen.”

Even though Lauren’s mind knew she shouldn’t respond to the comment, her heart refused not to. She could clearly see it in Alexa’s eyes the truth of the words. The princess belonged to her through her emotions. The prince’s words ran through her head. She had Alexa’s heart, and that was all that should matter. With a blush at the compliment, she replied, “Thank you. You look so alluring dressed this way. You are the sexiest woman I have ever had the pleasure of loving,” she confessed.

“That is a great honor. You have my heart, Lauren. Nothing will ever change that. Now let me bestow you on what I desperately wished to last night. Close your eyes and hold up your hair.” Lauren did as requested even though she was curious. She could hear a click like something was being opened, and then she felt a mouth against her left ear. “This is because you are the most stunning woman in the world,” the princess whispered. She could feel an earring being slipped into her ear. The heir’s lips moved to the right ear and kissed it. “This is because you have been so generous with granting me the favor of your time.” Another earring was eased into her other ear. Lauren was immensely curious but continued to stay in the position Alexa had requested. Her exhaled unevenly and gave a tiny whimper when she felt hot breath along her neck followed by an open mouth sucking her pulse and hands trailing up her clothed breasts. As soon as they touched her bare collarbones, she realized they were holding something as it ran across her skin. “And this, my darling, is because I love you, and I want to spend the rest of my life loving you,” Alexa avowed in a hush. Lauren felt hands go around her neck and clasp something.

Unable to resist the mouth so close to her own, the redhead dropped her hair and embraced the princess around the neck. With eyes still tightly shut, she found the mouth she craved and ravenously partook in the sweet lips. “Alexa, take me to bed,” she solicited.

“Do you not wish to see your gifts first?”

Blue eyes opening and meeting brown ones, the librarian answered, “You are truly the only gift I need.”

“Then I would be honored to please you, my lady, in whatever way you desired.”

Hours later the couple remained in bed. Clothes were in a pile on the floor, but the jewelry remained on Lauren. The two women cuddled together, allowing skin to met skin as they simply rested. Nuzzling red hair and kissing the woman she loved on top of the head, Alexa mentioned, “With all that has happened, I forgot to ask how your interviews went. Did you think any libraries were worthy of your abilities?”

“They all had potential. I am going back on Monday with all of them for another round of interviews.”

“I am certainly glad to hear that. It means your dreams are that much closer to being a reality. Of course I am also pleased this means you and I will be living in the same city once my tour at the base is complete. I was not sure how I was going to survive without seeing you, but now it seems as if I will not have to suffer that way. I do hope you will take one of these positions.”

“I most likely will. My dreams of the future include you now, so I want to be close to you.”

“I am glad to know we feel the same way. I was not sure you would ever want to see me again.”

Lauren nodded her head as she sighed. “Honestly, Lex, I was not sure I ever did want to see you again after last night, but your father said something to me that made me think otherwise.”

“What did he say?”

“He said I had your heart and that was all that should matter. Your brother told me the same thing. I do not know what our future may hold, Lex, but I trust my heart will know what to do when the time comes. Right now my heart wants to be with you no matter what. I cannot have it any other way.”

“Neither can I. Thank you for giving me your love, Lauren. It is the greatest gift I have ever received, and I cherish it. I know rough times lie ahead for us, but I just want you to know that my love for you will never fade. My heart is yours now and always.”

The librarian leaned up and kissed her beloved’s mouth sweetly before asking, “What are you doing the rest of the weekend?”

“Hopefully I will be spending as much of it as possible right here with you. I know I have some obligations at the palace that I must tend to over the weekend, but they will not take up all my time. I cannot go out in public with you after last night’s announcement. If you’d like to see the city, I am sure I can get a driver to take you, but the press would surely speculate if we were seen in each other’s company right now.”

“I understand. I think I would like to see some of the city in which I am contemplating living. However, it is not necessary for me to have an escort. After all, I am just a common woman who nobody knows. No one will even notice me. I will do that while you tend to your duties. What do you have on your agenda today?”

“A press conference this afternoon and interviews. It should take up all afternoon and into the evening. I will be able to come back tonight, though. Tomorrow I must attend church and have a luncheon but then am free after that.”

“Well, I will be happy to send any time you can afford me then.” Looking at the clock next to the bed, she said, “It is almost 11:00. When is your conference?”

“At 1:00. I should probably be getting back to the palace,” she mentioned, tossing back the covers. However, she didn’t move further as her eyes roamed over the woman she had in her arms. The nakedness of her lover mesmerized her. Lauren’s fair skin and the delicate contours of her body were inviting to the touch. Alexa sighed as her hand trailed lightly over Lauren’s hip. “You are such a beautiful temptress, darling. There is nowhere else I would rather be than right here. I cannot wait to return to your arms.”

“Neither can I. For now you must go. The world awaits your greatness.”

Continued in Chapter 5

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