Page 14 of The Crown

She raised both eyebrows and turned to him. “And the kiss?”

“Photo shopped.” The candid truth in his eyes told her all she needed to know. She let out a huge sigh of relief. “She’d do that?”

“Well, now I don’t think she did it.”

Jo snorted. “You don’t?”

He hesitated, but then continued. “No, it is likely part of this campaign to discredit our relationship, or to create news where there isn’t.”

Jo still suspected Monique to be the mastermind of the whole situation. Or else why lead him away at just the right moment. Although a feather of suspicion remained, she tucked it away. The convenience of the photo shop explanation bothered her, as well as the whole set up nature of their separation that night. But she said no more.

“But why would anyone do that? Why do they care?”

“They just want to sell news.”

“And where are your credible presses?”

He tapped her hand. “And that is exactly the correct question to be asking. We’ve invited them to the event today. And we are going to block all the others.” A fire of determination in his eyes told her he was not as carefree about the events of last night as he let on.

She sat forward, wanting to get moving so she could plan for everything to be perfect. “So, you are not secretly still in love with Monique? Your parents don’t hate me? And no one is ready to ship me back to America?” Her sheepish expression hopefully hid her true concern. She watched his face.

He pulled her closer so that his eyes were inches from her own. “All of that is true, yes, and one other thing I stayed up all last night thinking.”

Reassurance filled her. “And what’s that?” She twisted in place and leaned one arm across his body.

He pulled her into his arms, cradling her across his lap. “I could never ever do any of this without you. I don’t even know why I tried all those years. I love you, Jo.”

She thrilled inside. And then their lips met and everything inside her ignited. He loved her. He wanted her. His parents loved her. And most of all, she belonged. His lips continued exploring and she became lost to their sweetness.

Then his lips mumbled against hers. “I just have one question.”

Surprised, she pulled away. His face looked dazed, that wonderful sleepy well-kissed look, and she grinned at him. “What is your question?”

“What did Henry say that was so funny? He’s usually pretty dull around me…” A hint of insecurity flickered in the corner of his eye.

“He told me stories of you. I’m guessing the picture was taken while I heard of the time you fell into the Mediterranean in a tuxedo, came up, held up your glass, and asked for a refill?”

Such relief filled his face, she almost kissed him all over again. “So, you were talking about me?”

She laughed. “Almost the whole time. We talked a bit about him as well, as I’m sure you can imagine.”

“That was funny, that bit about the drink.” He paused, studying her. “I never drink with you. I don’t want to dull my senses.’ He toyed with her fingers. “I’m afraid I might miss something.”

“Well, from what I can tell, we don’t need to drink. We have too much fun perfectly sober.”

He nodded. “And no headaches in the morning.” He paused. “Theoretically.” He rubbed his head. “I think we are giving my father plenty, or rather I am. Trane looked too self-satisfied. I wanted to pound him.”

Jo grinned. “Ok, I must get ready. Out with you. Promise you will fill me in on the way about the bomb?”

Nico frowned. “Yes I will. Also, I was supposed to tell you, father has upped security at all levels.”

Jo was grateful. Being a part of this family felt more like home every day. “Oh, and does my father know?” She cringed, dreading the answer.

“No. Staff checked on him and Nurse June, and they were both blissfully unaware.”

Relief filled her. She had been so happy her father was safe and entertained, learning and relaxed here in the palace. It was such a relief not to have to worry about him.

As Nico moved towards the door, he turned. “I think you should know.” He cleared his throat. “Monique will be there.”

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