Disney, Buena Vista, and Meg Cabot own all the rights. I'm just playing with the characters and make no money or other profit from it. No copyright infringement is intended.


Chapter 9

"You excited about going?" Shades asked, reaching across the booth's table to snag a french fry from Charlotte's plate. "I don't know why you order fries if you won't eat them," he added, just before shoving it in his mouth.

"You eat them," she answered pointedly. Their day off coinciding, they had spent the beautiful early October afternoon hiking a trail in the Royal Forest just outside of Pyrus. Five miles and two muddy hours had convinced her they had to concentrate on other things they had in common- specifically those that did not ruin her shoes.

"True. Mighty thoughtful of you." He reached for another. "Are you?"

"You mean about going to Vienna?" His mouth full, he nodded, and she continued. "I am, but…Do you think we will have any time to ourselves?"

"You mean us?" He dumped a puddle of ketchup on his plate in anticipation of more fries.

"Well, it would be nice," Charlotte answered wistfully, wondering just who Shades thought she would be referring to if not the two of them. "I love working for the queen, but I wish…" She poked at the food on her plate then put the fork down. "I guess it doesn't matter. It's only for a while longer before the crown changes hands."

Shades took a bite of his burger. He hadn't thought about Charlotte's future, even though he knew Mia's good friend Lilly had agreed to be her aide and advisor and would be taking her place. He had assumed Charlotte would be working in the diplomatic field and would still be around Pyrus- and him. He loved her and, one day, he figured they would marry. But for now, he was in no hurry to change their relationship; he thought things were just fine as they were. Surely she would find another position in the capitol.

"I should be able to get some time off," he said. "I'd like to take you out while we're there." Her expression softened and Shades knew he had said the right thing. "Anywhere you want," he generously offered. He took another bite.

"Such a musical history," she sighed. "I would love to attend a matinee concert at the Vienna Konzerthaus. I love the waltzes."

Shades nearly swallowed his food whole. "You mean waste- I mean, spend it at a concert?" He tried not to let his disappointment show. "There's a terrific trail starting from Ottakring to the-"

Charlotte stared at him.

"But, that's only what several of the guys want to do," he added quickly, waving off the suggestion with his free hand. "A concert, that sounds a whole lot better."

"I'll have to check the schedule for which evening. Her Majesty has a function every night," Charlotte explained. "I think the second day might work best- it's a private dinner party with King Gustav, and I won't be needed. Can you get away?" Shades grunted in agreement, almost wishing he had never offered. When he reached across again for more fries, she pushed to plate towards him. "Here. You may as well take the rest of them."

"Thanks." Shades moved his empty plate out of the way to make room. "Nothing new about the queen working."

At mid-afternoon, the deli was nearly empty and they were sitting at the very last booth, away from the other customers, so Charlotte was not worried about being overheard. Still, she kept her voice low. "I know, but she's working harder than ever. You would think she'd have given more responsibility to Princess Mia by now. That's the whole reason they delayed her coronation- to let the princess get experience."

Shades chewed, thinking about what she said. "I get the feeling Joseph is not pleased about the delay."

"No, he's not," Charlotte said. She lowered her voice to just above a whisper. "The queen doesn't think Princess Mia is ready."

He shrugged. "You know, if plans hadn't changed, Mia would queen by now, ready or not."

"Well, Her Majesty hasn't slowed down at all since the wedding, despite Joseph trying to convince her to." She picked up her glass of water but set it down without taking a drink. "At least she took time off for a honeymoon."

"What a wild wedding." He wiped up the last of the ketchup with a fry. "Makes you think eloping is the smart thing to do." Shades snorted. "Weddings can be a pain in-"

Noticing the dark look Charlotte was giving him, he stopped suddenly. "Did y'see the game last night?" he asked innocently, before jamming two fries in his mouth and reaching for more ketchup.


In Genovia, his marriage to Clarisse was accepted- even applauded by most. But, this was not Genovia and the affluent men and women filling the great hall were not the simple folk of a small, quiet kingdom. Many of the people turning to look at him and Clarisse were of the oldest and most influential families of Europe, while the others were simply curious.

After their wedding, the tabloids had a field day for two months, rehashing the admittedly peculiar turn of events, with Mia's flight from the alter to his and Clarisse's own surprising walk down the aisle. Many focused on the proceedings, but a quite a number of the columnists and commentators had questioned the propriety of such a move on the Queen of Genovia's part. While his wife may have been used to having her likeness on the covers of newspapers and magazines, he was not. He was very glad when another sensational headline took their place.

They had received congratulatory messages from across the continent; however, it was evident not everyone thought Clarisse's decision wise. With the help of Charlotte and Shades, he had intercepted several anonymous messages condemning her marriage to one considered a servant- someone beneath her. Because of their anonymity, they did not pass them on to Clarisse. The ones that were signed had to be delivered. Clarisse had read the notes then put them away without a word.

The doorman's voice rang out. "Her Majesty, Queen Clarisse of Genovia-" there was the briefest of pauses- "and Mr. Joseph Coraza." Around them, people leaned closer, whispering amongst themselves as the couple entered the lavishly decorated ballroom. By tradition, only royalty- and their spouses- were announced at the annual function.

"Do you remember the last time we were here?" she asked just loud enough for him to hear. Entering the main ballroom, she smiled at a vaguely familiar face and kept moving forward. Most guests had already arrived, and the stately building was crowded.

Vividly, he thought. His father had harassed him in front of a crowd, ranting about his being unsuitable company for a queen, and then later, in a drunken fit, tried to strike him. Perhaps the duke was not in attendance; he had heard Addington was ill. "Yes, certainly," was all he said aloud.

"This time, no one shall be able to object. We shall dance all night," Clarisse said fervidly, "or at least until my shoes start to pinch my feet."

Yes, the underling has certainly come up in the world. He glanced about, hoping he would not see Morley Addington. Instead, he saw a short, squat man approaching.

"Ah, good evening, Your Majesty," Baron von Troken said silkily, giving her a stiff bow. At his side, the baroness smirked at the couple over her prominent nose. Clarisse greeted them in return before turning away to speak with someone else. The baron faced Joseph. "An exciting evening, without a doubt. It is your first occasion in Continental society, is it not?"

"Good evening," Joseph replied, as both a greeting and dismissal.

"I would not worry," the baron continued quickly, before Joseph could move away. "I'm sure everyone will understand and be tolerant if you blunder tonight. You've not the experience of someone born of the upper classes."

"From what I've seen, Baron," Joseph replied, "Courtesy and intelligence are not a matter of birth. Excuse me."

The baroness sniffed and took another glass of champagne from a passing waiter, while the baron chuckled as Joseph moved to Clarisse's side.

"What did the baron want?" Clarisse asked, casting a distasteful glance toward the odd pair.

"The baron was just giving me a word of encouragement," Joseph replied. Her eyebrow went up in disbelief. "My dear, would you honor me with a dance?" he quickly continued. No one was going to spoil the evening, not when his wife was the most beautiful woman there.

"I would very much like to dance with you," she answered, her smile warm as he led her to the middle of the room just as another piece began. "I will never forget that afternoon we danced in San Francisco."

"Nor will I." He took her in his arms and they began to move slowly to the music. She lay her cheek against his and let him guide her about the floor.

"I have been thinking of the first time we met," she said softly. "I believe you helped me with a…an electronic device- with the battery, and we talked."

"I remember," he replied. "We were in the room overlooking your garden."

"You complimented my roses, and I was so pleased."

He pulled her a bit closer. "I have a confession to make, my dear."

"You didn't like my roses, but were afraid to say as much to the queen?" she asking teasingly, snuggling closer. She was feeling rather daring, even if they were in public.

He smiled and shook his head. "Actually, I thought you were the landscape designer. I…if the king had not come in when he did…I was just about to ask you to dinner."

His shoulder was very comfortable. "Why to dinner?" she murmured.

He took a deep breath and let it out slowly. "Because, I thought you were the most beautiful woman I had ever met and I…" His voice trailed off. After a moment, she leaned away from him slightly to see his face, her lips parted in surprise. "You were the only reason I stayed, my dear." The corner of his mouth went up in a wry smile. "Imagine my disappointment to discover you were married."

"Oh, really, Joseph," Clarisse replied, wondering if he was teasing her. Could he have loved her since that day? Surely not. She lay her head back on his shoulder, their bodies barely moving in time to the music. In the midst of nearly two thousand people, they danced, holding each other, with no thoughts of anyone else.

Finding her friends in the crowd was not difficult. Gustav's booming laugh carried far despite the hubbub of voices and music. For the next thirty minutes they passed the time chatting, since she and Helena had not seen each other since the wedding and had a great deal to catch up on. Meanwhile, several tables away, the three men were discussing the recent football playoffs, when a man joined them.

"Mr….ah- I'm afraid I've forgotten your name," Stefan apologized, covering his embarrassment as best as he could.

"John Masters- we met at the wine and spirits conference last year in Rome."

"Yes, of course, Mr. Masters. I do hope you are enjoying the evening. Pleasure to see you again," Stefan agreed, still not having a clue to the man's identity. There was an awkward silence as the man did not leave but smiled broadly, glancing between the others. Stefan gestured to his friends. "May I introduce King Gustav of Cerneland-" the two men exchanged greetings "-and Mr. Joseph-"

"Hey! You're Queen Clarisse's husband, aren't you! Saw your picture in Rumor magazine. Nice to meet you, Renaldi," the man broke in. Gustav choked, his drink going the wrong way.

"Mr. Joseph Coraza," Stefan hurriedly explained, aghast at the mistake.

"Oh, that's right. What a story- the guard who married the queen- sort of a Cinderella story in reverse, eh?" the man exclaimed, with a laugh. "Way to go, old man. Nice to meet you. Guess you're living the good life now!"

"A pleasure," Joseph returned dryly. Stefan and Gustav, recovered but still red-faced, gave the man a cold stare, and Masters quickly left.

"Joseph, I apologize," Stefan declared earnestly, glancing over his shoulder at the man's retreating back. "I can't imagine why he-"

Joseph held up a hand in dismissal. "It's nothing. Don't give it another thought."

"What a disrespectful blighter!" Gustav huffed, his mustache puffing with each word. "That son of a-"

"Is something wrong?" Clarisse asked, coming up behind them. Gustav looked as if he were about to pop and Stefan, usually calm and in control, appeared ruffled.

"Not at all, my dear. Just discussing last night's game." Joseph took her hand in his and forced himself to smile.

She shook her head. "It must have been quite a match," she replied looking at Gustav, who still appeared as if he could wring someone's neck.

"Yes, it was. If you would excuse us, gentlemen, I should like to dance with my wife, again," Joseph said smoothly, nodding to the others as he led Clarisse away.

Gustav let out his breath in a rush the moment they were out of earshot. "Who was that bastard?"

Stefan shrugged. "I can't recall." He looked about the crowded room, and realized that each year he knew fewer and fewer of the people attending. It had come down to simply who had the money for a ticket. "There are far too many people that are here just to gawk," he added.

"They often are at these large events," Gustav concurred. Calmer, he ran a hand over his beard. "I feared Joseph might meet up with curiosity-seekers and rudeness tonight. Thank goodness the paparazzi were kept out. He handled it well, though." He hesitated for a moment before asking, "Is Morley Addington in attendance?"

Stefan gestured to a passing waiter to take his empty glass. He puckered his lips slightly in distaste. "Yes, he is." Both men grunted in disgust.

When Joseph and Clarisse returned from their dance, Gustav bowed as low as his belly would allow. "Sir," he began, addressing Joseph, "might I dance with your beautiful bride?"

"Of course," Joseph agreed quickly with a smile, giving the king a small bow in return. He presented Clarisse's hand to Gustav, who tucked it in the crook of his arm, and then patted it as he led her away.

Stefan and Helene followed them to the dance floor, leaving Joseph alone for the first time that night. He let out his breath in a rush and looked around. Shades moved to his side immediately. "Do you need something, sir?" the younger man asked solicitously. Joseph shook his head.

"No, just catching my breath, but thank you," he replied, smiling at the new Head of Royal Security's dedication to duty. "Your men are doing a fine job." Shades looked pleased and they chatted for a few minutes about the next day's schedule. Suddenly, Shades stepped away, looking over Joseph's shoulder.

Joseph turned to look and broke into a pleased smile. "Ginny!"

"Oh, really, Gustav," Clarisse laughed, as her fellow monarch twirled her around once, then twice, grateful that the waltz was coming to an end. Gustav was a very enthusiastic dancer. Flushed from the spirited turn about the floor, Clarisse presented a pretty picture to the king. He kissed her gently and beamed.

"I am so very pleased for you, my sweet Clarisse," he said softly, leading her away. "Joseph is just the man for-" He stopped, staring through the throng of milling people waiting for the next dance to begin.

Puzzled, she followed his gaze and was just in time to see Joseph embrace a woman then take her hands in his, raising them to his lips. "Who is she?" Clarisse wondered aloud.

"I don't know," Gustav replied. Cerneland's king cleared his throat and stood as straight as possible while tugging at his tunic with his free hand. "Let's find out, shall we."

Clad in a shimmering black dress, the woman was stunningly beautiful. In her early fifties, Clarisse judged, she carried herself with confidence and grace. While not dripping with diamonds or other jewels, what few items she wore bespoke of wealth and excellent taste. Leaning close to hear, Joseph laughed as the woman placed her hand on his arm. Clarisse's chin went up and Gustav had to step lively to keep from being left behind. At her approach, Joseph and the woman turned, still smiling. Clarisse's eyebrow rose.

"Ah, my dear," he said, moving to take her hand. "I'd like to introduce my friend, Lady Genevieve Monts. Ginny, my wife, Queen Clarisse."

"It is a pleasure to meet you, Your Majesty," Ginny said. "Please accept my best wishes upon your marriage." She smiled at Joseph. "And, of course, my congratulations to you, Joseph."

"Thank you," Clarisse replied, hoping she sounded civil. Joseph had certainly never mentioned her! Beside Clarisse, Gustav cleared his throat loudly.

"And, may I introduce His Majesty, King Gustav of Cerneland," Joseph continued, barely getting the words out before the larger man stepped forward.

"Lady Monts, it is indeed an honor to make your acquaintance." Gustav took the hand she offered and lifted it to his lips, and then hung on to it for as long as good manners would allow and then some.

"I am pleased to meet you," she replied. "And, do call me Ginny," she added, looking to both Gustav and Clarisse.

"What brings you here?" Gustav asked, reluctantly letting go of her hand.

"The Knolling Foundation here in Vienna was a favorite of mine and my late husband's," Ginny explained. Cerneland's king took a deep breath, sucking in his ample midriff as much as he could.

"Your late husband must have been a true humanitarian," Gustav remarked, unobtrusively giving his jacket a tug to smooth the wrinkles over his belly. "Will you staying in Vienna long?"

"Yes, for two days."

Gustav nearly rubbed his hands together in delight. "Splendid!" He beamed at Joseph and Clarisse. "You must dine with us tomorrow- if you are free, that is," he said, directing the inquiry to Ginny. She glanced to Joseph and Clarisse.

"If you have no other plans, that would be wonderful," Joseph agreed. Gustav, Joseph, and the beautiful Ginny Monts all turned expectantly to Clarisse.

"Wonderful," Clarisse echoed, schooling her expression into the brightest smile she could muster. "I look forward to it."

Several minutes later, after Ginny had agreed to dance with Gustav, Joseph nodded to Shades and led Clarisse around the edge of the floor towards the green carpeted stairs of the front hall. Seeing Ginny had been a pleasant surprise as they had not run into each other since two years after King Rupert's death, and had only spoken briefly on the phone a few times since. As if reading his thoughts, Clarisse spoke.

"Lady Monts is lovely."

"Yes, she is." He pushed open the heavy door that led to the open air loggia. "This is better," he said, breathing in the cool night air. Taking her hand, they moved toward the stone railing, Shades following several paces behind, trying to look inconspicuous in evening attire and sunglasses. Several ladies gave him second glance, and he stood a bit taller.

"How did you and she meet?" Clarisse asked, as if she were simply commenting on the pleasant weather. She told herself she wasn't jealous, merely interested in Joseph's friends, but she knew that was not the truth.

Joseph leaned against the balustrade and lifted her hand, covering it with his other. "Hmm? Oh, Ginny- it was at a function you and King Rupert attended several years ago. We met on a balcony during my break, I believe, and chatted for a while," he answered, rubbing his fingers lightly across hers.

"Oh, I see," she said. His fingers were warm, and she wondered if Ginny Monts thought the same. How close had they been? How did one ask one's husband about his past romantic interests? Or, was that even done? "Friends for several years then?"

He nodded, and released her hand to put his arm around her. "Off and on. She travels quite a bit," he said dismissing it as anything important. "Clarisse, I must make a quick trip to London next week. Would you be able to accompany me?"

"To London?" She shook her head. "I'm afraid not. I have two meetings with Parliament and the ambassador from Italy is due to arrive on Thursday. Will you be back by then? We have a dinner that evening for him and his wife."

"I'll be home Wednesday evening," he answered. He did not mention Mia or ask what part she would be taking. The princess was more involved in the country's matters than before, but not to the degree he wished. He had, however, agreed to give Clarisse the six months, so he kept his thoughts on the matter to himself.

As they were making their way back to their friends, Joseph came upon two associates from his days with Interpol, and was clearly pleased. Clarisse insisted he stay to chat with the men, while she set off to return to their friends, Shades in her wake.


"Are Clarisse and Joseph back yet?" Gustav asked, setting his empty glass on the table.

Stefan shook his head. "Should be back soon." He tilted his head toward a group of women several tables away. " Since Helene's with friends from her days at school and will no doubt she will be busy for- oh, the devil, I say!"

Morley Addington, the Duke of Thornfield, was approaching them. "Well, well, well!" the duke said, wavering to a stop. "Where are the newlyweds?"

"Morley," King Gustav said, facing his subject. "My advice to you is to pour yourself into a taxi and leave."

Addington chuckled. "But, I'm not ready to, you see."

Stefan looked down his nose at the sallow-skinned man. "Sir, your presence is not wanted."

"But I was invited, jus' as you were!" Addington objected, opening his arms wide, wobbling to keep his balance. His drink splashing over the edge of the tumbler, Addington pointed a finger at Stefan. "You're jus' mad because your legal tactics didn't do you one damn bit of good." The duke grinned. "Got the news form my lawyers this afternoon."

Extremely annoyed, Stefan's eyebrow rose and he spoke through stiff lips. "You will not get away with flouting the laws of my country, Addington!"

"Nor mine, as well," Clarisse said, coming to stand beside her friends. "Between the three of us," she continued, glancing to Stefan and Gustav, "we will see that you are held responsible for every infraction your business interests have made in our countries. Your title and reputation will be worthless."

The duke's shoulders shook, his chuckles growing into outright laughter. "Be careful what you wish for, Your Majesty!" he answered, his amusement genuine.

Clarisse looked confused and Stefan addressed him again. "We are in agreement on this, Addington, and we shall not be put off any longer by your legal trickery, illegal payoffs, and influence buying. Charges have been drawn up that are watertight and will effectively break you. We intend to see you and your title ruined." He looked Clarisse then Gustav for confirmation. Clarisse nodded while Gustav looked at the floor. After a moment, he brought his gaze up to the duke.

"Leave, Morley," Gustav said, his words mild in comparison to those of his friends. "Do not trouble us more this evening." Stefan and Clarisse stared at Gustav. Laughing, Addington gave the three of them a quick bow, then turned and unhurriedly moved away. The two continued to stare at Cerneland's king. Finally, Gustav spoke. "I have been informed the man is ill."

"Are you making excuses for Addington, Gustav?" Clarisse asked incredulously.

"No, not at all." Gustav chewed at his mustache and crossed his arms. "I just meant that we might reconsider some of our legal strategy, perhaps drop-"

"Absolutely not!" Clarisse nearly shouted. She lowered her voice when several people nearby turned to see. "We will go forward with this suit just as we planned." Again, Gustav looked away, avoiding their eyes. "Are you not going to support us in this?" Clarisse asked pointedly.

"I say, you aren't backing out, are you?" Stefan asked, giving his lifelong friend a quizzical look. Cerneland's king sighed.

"The situation is more complicated than it appears," Gustav began, lifting his hands. "I believe it might be wise to rethink certain moves."

Stunned, Clarisse and Stefan stared at him. "You can not be serious," Clarisse said, aghast at her friend's change of opinion. She took a breath in an effort to calm herself. "I cannot imagine what it could be, Gustav, but I can only suppose you have a extremely good reason for backing out of our agreement."

Gustav looked as if someone had hit him. "Clarisse, I am not backing out. I…I just feel that we should wait-"

"Wait?" Stefan hissed angrily. Clarisse had never seen her friend so upset. "We have been fighting Addington for years," Stefan continued, "and you want us to drop everything? This is preposterous! Whatever reasons could you possibly have for asking this of us?"

Visibly torn, Gustav started to answer then stopped. "There are reasons…"

"I would certainly like to hear them," Clarisse challenged. When Gustav did not answer, she continued. "What points of our agreement are you reconsidering? His fraudulent business practices? His avoidance of taxes?"

"Are you going to refuse our suggestion to issue an end to the patent of his lineage?" Stefan asked, peering closely at his best friend with something close to distaste. "That is the least you can do!"

Gustav's head came up quickly. "I don't think that move is wise."

"You have the power to do so," Stefan shot back. "Why not use it?"

"We do not," Clarisse said, trying hard to keep her voice calm and level, "understand this change of yours, at all, Gustav. In the past, we have been in complete agreement concerning our goals, but now you say we should reconsider." She clasped her hands together in front of her. "Will your country suffer an severe economic effect because of these proceedings?"

He shook his head. "No, much of his business ties are outside Cerneland."

Stefan began to speak but stopped, clearly angry at his friend. Clarisse pressed her lips together, choosing her words carefully. "Gustav, are you somehow…involved in Morley Addington's business dealings?" That was the only reason she could determine for her friend's reluctance to follow through. Perhaps he had only just found out his personal finances were closely tied to those of the Duke of Thornfield.

Gustav sighed. "No, my personal investments are not associated with Morley's dealings." He turned to her, gesturing with his hands. "Clarisse, I cannot go into my reasons, however, I must ask you to trust me."

Clarisse traded glances with Stefan, who shook his head a fraction. "I fear we cannot drop our suits or back away. We will proceed without you, if necessary," she declared. There was a note of regret in her voice. Gustav had been her friend since before she had wed Rupert.

An uneasy silence lay between the three. Finally, Gustav cleared his throat. "I understand. I will continue to participate in the legal action against Morely Addington, as we discussed," he answered slowly, "However, I will not terminate the title patent of the Duke of Thornfield." There was real pain in his voice; he knew he had disappointed his closest friends.

Somewhat mollified, Clarisse let her hands fall to her sides. "Thank you, Gustav," she replied stiffly. Stefan nodded in agreement. Uncomfortable with what had just happened, both kept their gaze away from him, Clarisse looking out over the crowd, Stefan inspecting his sleeve for lint.

"Clarisse, I assume we will be meeting for dinner tomorrow as planned," Gustav offered quietly, trying to put the argument aside and reclaim the harmony they had known prior.

"Yes, of course," Clarisse answered quickly, forcing a smile. "Joseph and I are looking forward to it."


Across the table, Ginny Monts took a sip of her wine, which was several shades lighter than the striking claret-colored, off the shoulder gown she wore. She was, Clarisse thought for the umpteenth time, one of the most beautiful women she had ever met. Clarisse slipped her hand up to tug discreetly at her own shoulder strap, which was again in danger of falling down.

While there was still a stiffness between the two friends at dinner the following evening, it seemed to Clarisse that Gustav made a great effort to be charming and keep their dinner guest occupied. As he leaned closer to Ginny Monts to finish the story he was telling, Clarisse had to smile. Gustav had probably noticed that she was feeling a little intimidated by beautiful, younger woman, and because of his efforts throughout dinner, Joseph had had little time to speak with Ginny.

The change in Gustav's attitude concerning Morley Addington still rankled her. Whatever his reason, and Clarisse could not imagine what it could possibly be, it would make no difference to her- none. She would pursue Addington and see that he was effectively ruined. It made her angry just to think of the duke.

"Are you alright, my dear?" Joseph whispered, lifting his water glass. "You were frowning as if ready to take on all comers." He took a swallow and set it back down, watching her.

Immediately, Clarisse schooled her features into a smile. "Yes, I'm fine. Just thinking of my meeting tomorrow morning with the tourist board."

"Is the problem with the agreement that large?" he asked. Across the table, Gustav chuckled and Ginny covered her mouth with her napkin, obviously laughing. Gustav leaned closer to speak again and a moment later they both laughed aloud.

"No, not exactly. Just a detail I'm not sure of," she answered, hoping her excuse sounded plausible. Gustav, in her opinion, although doing a fine job of keeping Ginny amused and away from Joseph, was going above and beyond the call of duty. The pair saw Clarisse and Joseph looking at them, and tried to quiet down. Gustav cleared his throat, but ended up chuckling again.

"Well, I must say this has been a wonderful dinner…and the company even better." He gave Ginny a grin, and she accepted his compliment with a slight incline of her head. "I hope the two of you don't mind, but Gin- er, Miss Monts and I are going to take a stroll on the veranda."

"Not at all," Joseph said, catching Ginny's eye and lifting his eyebrow a fraction. Hers rose in answer, and they both smiled as a message passed between them. The interchange was not lost on Clarisse.

"Yes, please do show Miss Monts the gardens, Gustav. It is a lovely night," she added. She stood and the men immediately came to their feet. Gustav assisted Ginny with her chair and her black, gossamer-thin wrap, and then gallantly offered her his arm.

"Queen Clarisse, it has been lovely to have met you," Ginny said, slipping her hand around Gustav's arm.

"I'm so glad we met," Clarisse returned politely. Ginny looked to Joseph.

"I suppose I'll be seeing you next week in London," she said brightly. Clarisse looked sharply at her husband, who nodded.

"Perhaps we can meet for drinks before the dinner," he answered. Then, with his guard keeping a respectful distance, a beaming Gustav bore Ginny Monts away. Joseph slipped Clarisse's Genovian lace shawl about her shoulders.

"You'll be seeing Miss Monts while in London?" Clarisse asked, as he led her from the hotel's private dining room. The headwaiter and his staff bowed as they left, and she thanked them with a few words as she passed.

"Yes, she will most likely be there." He took her hand in his, and then lifted it, kissing her fingers as they came to a huge fountain in the foyer.

Totally confused, Clarisse stopped. Why would he make a date with another woman? Her hand still in his, Joseph turned back to see why. "I don't understand."

"Understand what, my dear?" He took a step closer to her in order to hear over the splash of the water.

"Why will you be seeing her?" she asked, immediately wishing she had phrased her roundabout accusation better. She tried again, without much improvement. "Does Miss Monts work there?"

Joseph laughed. "Ginny doesn't 'work,' per se. She travels on behalf of several philanthropic organizations she and her husband contributed to," he explained. That didn't seem to satisfy her, and he suddenly realized what was bothering her. He stepped closer and leaned so close she could smell the faint scent of his aftershave. "My dear, are you jealous?" he asked in amusement.

"Certainly not!" she declared too loudly. He smiled, making her protest even further. "I only meant that if you and Miss Monts were…were meeting in London, then it had to be for…" She searched for the right words, then, with her chin up, she found them. "For a good reason!"

Joseph laughed softly, and placed his hand under her chin. Slowly, he leaned forward and kissed her. Lifting his lips from hers just barely, he whispered, "My sweet Clarisse, I'm a consultant for the company Ginny's brother owns." He kissed her again, and then stepped back. Lips apart and eyes half closed, Clarisse gazed at him for a long moment before being able to pull herself together. She glanced around to see if any other guests had been watching and was relieved to find they were alone.

"I knew it was something along those lines, of course," she replied primly, trying to salvage some dignity. He laughed again and put his arm around her. Then, his lips next to her ear, he whispered a promise to her that made her blush. Clarisse grabbed him by his arm and led him toward the elevators, Hans and Mel hurrying to keep up.


As the lights dimmed, Shades settled back in the seat. For last minute tickets, they were not bad seats, he mused, wondering if Charlotte had used her position with the queen to get them. Beside him, she settled into her seat, and there was just enough illumination to see the expectant smile on her face. His one night off and it was wasted at a concert. Ah, well, he thought, clapping dutifully as the conductor made his entrance, if this made Charlotte happy, then it was a small sacrifice to make.

Over the years, he had attended innumerable concerts and other cultural events as part of the royal family's security contingent. He knew one or two of the agents actually enjoyed those assignments, but he was not one of them. The applause died, and the conductor raised his wand then brought it down. Music filled the hall.

Getting the evening off had not been very difficult. The royal couple was having dinner at the hotel, in a private dining room, so Mel and Hans would be able to handle it without difficulty. Still, he had consulted Joseph. The older man had readily agreed, telling him to take the entire evening.

He had not meant to get involved in a discussion about Charlotte with his former boss, but the conversation had turned in her direction anyway. When he told Joseph he was certain Charlotte would stick around Pyrus as part of the diplomatic corps and they would continue seeing each other, Joseph had merely shook his head slowly, and told him to never second guess a woman.

So, what was wrong with that? Shades wondered. He knew for a fact the job with the diplomatic organization had been offered, and that it was Charlotte's area of study. Why wouldn't she take it? She would not want to move away from him.

He recognized the waltz the orchestra was playing- The Blue Danube. He slid further down in his seat, and leaned an elbow on the armrest, propping up his head with his fist. Slowly, his eyes closed. A swell of music brought them open again, and he fought a yawn.

He loved Charlotte. He admitted as much to himself, and he thought she must know that he did, after all this time. And, she loved him, of course. So, he was sure she understood that they would one day get married, even though they had not discussed it. With his new position keeping him even busier than before, he was in no hurry. One day, much later, would be soon enough to think of marriage.

His eyes closed again, and he shifted his right shoulder, getting more comfortable. Much better, he thought, as the music became softer and faded.

Was that a snore? Charlotte wondered. Frowning, she cast a sideways glance at the elderly man to her right, but found him wide awake. Pressing her lips together, she looked to her left. She sighed and crossed her arms over her chest. The oaf was asleep!

Over the past few months, ever since the queen and Joseph had married, she and Shades had been dancing around the issue of their relationship, but never coming outright and discussing it. She knew he cared for her - even loved her, although he had never admitted to it. Not once had he intimated he wanted anything more than the way things were. He seemed perfectly happy just dating, and she was nearly certain he saw no one else; he did not have the time.

What did she want? Marriage? A family? Yes- all that, and more. And, more importantly, she did not want to have to wait until she was nearly old enough for retirement benefits to get it, either. She was already a few years past thirty, and she and Shades had known each other for years. She was ready to marry and start a family. The music came to an end, and the audience burst into applause. Beside her, Shades' head jerked up. The hall lights brightened, and he blinked.

"Is it over?" he asked hopefully, slowly sitting up straight.

"Oh, not at all," she replied sweetly, getting up to stretch her legs. "Just intermission. We have at least another hour and a quarter to go- longer if there are encores." Charlotte smiled as Shades groaned, coming to his feet to follow her.


Note: OK, here we go. It's done and I'm going to be posting for the next few days. The last chapter will be posted on New Year's Eve since that is when it takes place. I'm trying to wrap all the loose ends up and answer any remaining questions. Hope you like it. If so, let me know. (-:

Shade's experience at the concert was from an evening I spent last winter with my older son at Madame Butterfly. The music was divine, the singers fabulous, the tension of the heartbreak unfolding before us was palpable, I was teary-eyed...and he fell asleep. How, sitting maybe 10 rows from the orchestra, he could possibly nod off, I do not know.