Page 80 of Appointing

“Ma’am, you’re–”

“Making changes,” Elin interjected. “I’m the Queen – I’m supposed to move into my dad’s office, make it my own, and work on my vision for the country and the monarchy. And I can’t do that with Markus or Steven.”

“Katrin?”

“Who would keep track of Lillian, then?” Elin teased.

Ingrid laughed and said, “Has she moved out of the palace yet?”

“No, there’s an issue with the crown molding in the formal dining room now. She’s having someone restore it before she moves.”

Ingrid looked away from Elin and said, “Can I think about it, Ma’am?”

“About coming back?”

“Yes.”

“Really? The last time I asked, you said the same thing. Is this bad news, and you just feel sorry for me right now or something?”

“No, Ma’am. I just have a lot to consider.”

Like how Ingrid couldn’t stop staring into Elin’s eyes.

“Of course,” Elin said. “Well, I should let you get to your thinking. And I’m sure Sarah Anne will be back soon to finish whatever she put on hold for me.”

“You haven’t even had a cookie yet.” Ingrid motioned to the plate.

“Oh, right. Sorry,” she said. “I haven’t eaten all day, actually. I’ve been living on coffee these days.”

“You don’t drink coffee.”

“I do now, I guess.”

“I should have offered youcoffee, then. I can make you some and drink your tea. How do you take it?” Ingrid asked, reaching for the tea.

“Two sugars,” Elin replied.

Ingrid knocked the cookie plate off the table.

“Oh, sorry,” she said. “Damn it.” She picked the cookies up off the floor and placed them back on the plate. “There are more in the kitchen. I can get you some.”

“It’s okay. Really, Ingrid. I don’t need coffee, either,” Elin told her.

“Look at me, knocking over a plate. I guess I’m turning into you.” Ingrid chuckled nervously.

“The clumsy Queen,” Elin said, smiling back at her.

“So I’ve noticed.”

“Well,youwould,” Elin told her.

“Why do you say it like that?”

“Because I’m only clumsy around you,” Elin replied, standing up. “Please don’t get up just because I am. And I’ve left your name with security at the palace, so you are free to stop by in person and let me know your decision. Or, call; either way is fine. I just…” Elin walked toward the door. “I miss you.”

Ingrid watched in shock as the Queen opened the door and closed it behind her.

“I’ve missed you, too,” Ingrid said to herself.

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