Page 42 of Royally Scr*wed

“The feeling is mutual indeed.” I kiss my little darling’s cheek before propping her on my shoulder to burp her.

At six months old, every day is an adventure with Poppy. She’s already taught me so much about life. More than I could ever imagine.

“What would the people of Herefirth have to say if they could see their king burping his daughter?” Charlie muses.

“I choose to believe that it will make them love me even more. Much like my queen.”

Charlie rolls her eyes and scoots off the bed. “Yes, Your Majesty. You do have a way of making all of us swoon.”

She may be right, but it wasn’t easy to wineveryoneover. I’ve fought hard, for months, to showallthe people of Herefirth that I am beyond worthy of my crown.

My wife, on the other hand, had no trouble capturing the hearts of not only an entire country but an entire world.

Queen Charlie has the people of Herefirth wrapped around her fingers. The same way both Ottiline and Poppy have wrapped me around theirs.

“Did you check on Ottiline on your way past? Has she started her studies for the day?” Charlie asks as if she’s reading my mind.

“As a matter of fact, I did. She said she’s been up since sunrise enjoying the scenery and working on her latest assignment,” I can help but to beam with pride.

After everything that has been thrown her way the past few months Ottiline has far succeeded any expectations. She’s settled right in and hasn’t looked back since.

Being able to have most of her treatments here at home have worked wonders for her mental well -being as well. It’s a privilege I wish could be afforded to more children.

“I spoke with the construction crew today. Things are moving along well at Rexford Place.” No longer referred to as Rexford Palace, the former permanent residence of the monarchy is in the process of becoming a start of the art home for orphans.

Tunnels have been blocked off and destroyed. Rooms are being restored into kid friendly and age-appropriate bedrooms and community rooms rather than just letting the space sit vacant. It will take time until it’s complete but…

“And how’s that coming along?” Charlie still struggles to return to Rexford Place after all that’s happened.

“They’re running on schedule at the moment. I was able to take a look at the new indoor and outdoor pool. I think the kids are going to love it. Oscar’s already vetting lifeguards and mentors.”

“That’s great. You’ve got a true gift for turning tragedy into something positive.”

“Allow me to remind you that is in large part because of you and your support. I would be merely half a man without you.”

“Oh, you smooth talker.”

Poppy has drifted off to sleep in my arms, content and happy. “What do you say, I put this one down for a nap and we spend some time with one another before you get ready for your day?” I proposition.

“I’m having brunch with Henrietta in half an hour. We’re finalizing details for the summer fundraising gala for the orphanage. I cannot be late.”

“She’s meeting you here, correct?” I ask, gently placing Poppy in her crib that’s set up in the corner of our room, complete with its own sheer pink canopy and all the frilling things a baby girl may dream of around it.

“Jude…” Charlie warns but I already know, she’ll give in. All it takes is one touch.

“Charlotte…”

She spins on her heels, and I see that familiar fire in her eyes.

“Come here, my queen.”

“Not here. If you insist, then you’ll join me for a shower,” she tosses a saucy wink my way.

I don’t need to be told twice. I’m right behind her as she walks into the en- suite and drops her robe, exposing every inch of her bare skin to me.

An appreciative groan rumbles from my chest as I wrap my arms around her, cupping her breasts that have grown even more voluptuous now that she’s become a mother.

“Have I told you lately just how much I love every one of your curves?” I whisper, nipping at her neck.

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