Page 62 of Appointing

“I do,” Elin replied, smiling up at her.

“I’ll keep this from your father for now, but I can’t forever.”

“I know. Can you just give me a little time?”

Her mother nodded.

“Thank you,” Elin said.

“Are you going to talk to Ingrid?”

“I’m terrified,” Elin admitted.

“You’re in uncharted waters right now, so I can understand why, but if anyone can handle this, it’s you, my dear. I’ve long believed that while Christian was my firstborn, you were built for this job.”

“You’ve never said that to me before.”

“Well, I couldn’t, could I? Your brother was going to inherit.” Her mom winked at her. “But now, it’s yours, and you’re going to make an amazing Queen. When you’re ready, your country will stand behind you when you tell them.”

“You think so?”

“Just remember one thing: if they don’t, they’re still stuck with you.” She laughed, and Elin joined her. “But yes, I think they will.”

“Thanks, Mom,” Elin said.

“I am a mother first. And I will always be your mother first, Elin. No matter how many titles you have; I’m your mother.”

Elin nodded at her. Then, her mother kissed her forehead, and Elin felt safe and comforted for the first time in a very long time.

CHAPTER 19

“Can you get that? I’m at a pivotal stirring point here,” Sarah Anne said.

“Are you expecting someone?” Ingrid asked.

“No. You?”

“No.”

“Maybe it’s a package or something.”

“Why wouldn’t they just leave it at the door?”

“I don’t know, Ingrid. Why don’t you open the door and askthem?”

Ingrid rolled her eyes at her sister and then opened the front door.

“Elin?” she said. “Oh, shit… Your Majesty.” Ingrid cupped her hand over her mouth at her outburst.

“What?” Sarah Anne said from their kitchen.

“Hi,” Elin greeted as she stood there on the other side of Ingrid’s apartment door. “May I come in?” she asked.

“Of course. I–”

“I have to letthemcome in first just to make sure it’s safe, but they’ll leave right after,” Elin added.

“What?” Ingrid asked, still not fully grasping the fact that the Queen of Norway was standing outside her door.

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