Page 102 of How to Date a Prince

I slump slightly. I feel wretched at the reminder. “I’m so sorry.”

She touches my cheek. “But listen. If anything, you owe me one. Try reaching out to him. That’s how you can make it up to me. By living your life.”

“I did. We messaged on the night the show aired the accident.”

“And?”

“And… all roads lead to Adam? But aside from that, Thomas was wonderful, of course. Worried, like everyone else, about me. Apparently, he was in London.”

“Very interesting. Maybe he’s still in London.” She gives me a meaningful look. “Waiting for you.”

I shake my head a bit too quickly. My brain sloshes around into some kind of Thomas-related blur. “I wouldn’t go that far. I don’t think he’s waiting for me. If anything, it’s waiting forRenaissance Man. Or he’s probably planning to shut down the monarchy with his father, who knows, as the finale. He said he was here for business, after all.”

“No. Try again. Well, he’s not here for Adam, because Adam’s an American. So perhaps Adam’s at home.”

“It didn’t sound like it the other week when we spoke. Adam was in London too. With Thomas. Obviously.”

“You spoke?” Her eyebrows lift at the confession. She leans in, frowning. “You said you messaged.”

“It started as messages. Then we spoke.”

“Good,” she says, pleased. “Keep going down that vein.”

“You’re… incorrigible. We’re planning to see each other. If we can.” I wave a hand. “I mean, I’ll clear everything to make it happen. He could change his mind, though, think better of it?—”

She gawps. “Auggie! Weren’t you going to tell me?”

“Yes. It’s just… a lot to process. Anticipating seeing him, after everything. There’s a lot on the line. And obviously, we need to work out security arrangements to meet away from everyone.”

“I’m glad you’re seeing each other.” Katie squeezes my hand.

“Me too. It’ll be better in person,” I offer, searching her eyes. “Even if it’s hard since he’s moved on. But I must tell him how I feel, in person. Even… even if he’s moved on.” I falter. “I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t tell him.”

And Katie gives me a warm hug. I bury my face in her shoulder, holding on to her, seeking comfort. I’m so grateful to have her on my side again.

Which is how, between the interview forVanity Fairand the photo shoot, I text Thomas again to ask if he’s still in London to finalize plans to see each other. And he says yes, and we’re still on to meet.

Thomas’ words come back to me as I drowse. “If something matters to you, you have to fight for what you want.”

And I want Thomas, with all my heart.

ChapterThirty-Seven

It’s a dreary October Wednesday, with low cloud and sideways rain, and wind that won’t quit. Next Monday night is the finalRenaissance Manepisode with the in-studio back-to-back episode to debrief.

As for today with Thomas, we’ve agreed to meet out in the South Downs at the country house like it’sRenaissance Manshooting all over again, away from the prying eyes of London, back on the estate with special permission and all the security arrangements after I begged Alyse to help me see Thomas. When I pull up my Land Rover beside Thomas’ SUV rental in the gravel lot in front of the house, he gets out.

I slip out of my vehicle, flipping my hood up on my waterproof parka with a furry hood. Dressed for the elements, I step out of my trainers into wellies since we had agreed on a walk together, rain or shine—or both with the recent unsettled weather. I’ve brought a picnic along, just in case, set on the passenger seat in a wicker basket. Very optimistic of me.

Alyse pulls up her car a little distance away from us, ever watchful from her black SUV.

We stand facing each other between our cars. Thomas looks unusually nervous. I feel, for once, calm.

“Hi,” I say softly. “It’s good to see you.”

“It’s good to see you too. How’re you feeling?”

“Well enough to drive, so that’s progress. Thanks for meeting me.”

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