DISCLAIMER: I do not own PD and/or its characters. They belong to Meg Cabot and Disney.

Thanks to Susan for her beta read.

Title: Private Beach Party

This Monday had been one of those days where Clarisse had wished, if only for a short moment, that she was not the Queen of Genovia. Her meeting with the parliament had gotten worse because the Viscount Mabrey had been once again in full flight. He would not and could not accept that someone who was not a true-born Genovian would take over the crown after her.

Clarisse had inwardly fumed with anger and in that moment wished fervently that she could personally wring the Viscount's neck. Instead of reacting that way, however, she hadn't lost her composure and had faced it like the queen she was. She had knew the impossible man had wanted to see her lose her temper

.When she finally got out of parliament and to the car where Joseph was waiting for her, she couldn't hold back longer and began to swear. "Damn that Viscount! I wish someone would kill him so that I don't have to deal with him any longer."

Joseph had already opened the door to the car and noticed her agitation but didn't say a word. Clarisse stepped in and Joseph closed the door behind her then took his place in the driver's seat. He started the car and drove off. While driving, he couldn't hold back any longer. "Clarisse, my dear, it seems you once again had a terrible encounter with that evil Viscount." Not waiting for her comment, he continued, "What did he want this time?"

"He cannot and will not accept that Mia will become Queen. Oh Joseph, on days like these I really wish I was not the queen at all but rather a person with a normal life." She sighed and looking out the window.

"I know," were the only words Joseph gave back. Inwardly he swore to himself that at the next opportunitym he would break all of the Viscount's bones. How could that man act like he did to Joseph's beloved? Of course, he already had an idea as to how to bring back Clarisse's smile. Instead of driving back to the palace, he choose the way to the beac.

Immediately Clarisse noticed it and considered protesting, but before she could say a word, Joseph said quietly, "Don't say a word. The fresh sea breeze will make you forget for a while that you are the queen."

She knew he was right. After all, it was a private beach. Who would see them? Nobody would know where they were. 'Oh Joseph, what would I do without you?'

Finally the car stopped and both got out and walked toward the beach. Arriving there, Clarisse made a deep breath and enjoyed the fresh sea air.Finally Joseph spoke. "Feeling better now, my dear?"

"Oh Joseph, this is just what I needed. Out here it's all so peaceful with only the sound of the waves. I love being here," she paused then added bravely, "with you as my escort."

Oh, how beautiful she was! He couldn't resist her any longer. Not truly prepared for what was going to happen, Clarisse suddenly found herself in Joseph's embrace. She didn't want to struggle because it felt so good to be in his arms.

Their eyes met and it happened as if it had been meant to be. Finally their lips touched, and they shared a wonderful, sweet, long-lasting kiss. At last he released her and she rested her head at his shoulder.

It was already dark when the car stopped in front of the palace. They stepped out and made their way up the stairs to the front door, which Joseph opened. He escorted her right up to her suite. Before going in, Clarisse thanked Joseph for the private time by the water. "It was lovely to be down at the beach alone ... with you. Good night, my love.""Anytime, Clarisse. Good night, my love, and sweet dreams."

After the queen had gone into her room, Joseph closed the door behind her and went to his own room. Oh yes, it had indeed been a wonderful day after all.

This is my first try on a PD story. Please be nice.

Thanks

Anne