OFFICIAL YOUTUBE CHANNEL OF THE DUKE AND DUCHESS OF OXFORD
After the success of the Duchess of Oxford's lifestyle series that launched on Apple TV, Netflix and Amazon Prime in the spring of 2048, we are thrilled to announce that the Duke and Duchess of Oxford have decided to open their own YouTube channel called OxfordRoyal.
The YouTube channel will not only portrait the Duke and Duchess's work with special behind the scenes footage but it will also feature some brand new content in continuation of the Duchess's multipart documentary called Life In Balance.
The series will feature more tips on a healthy lifestyle, exclusive yoga videos taught by Ella Mills (known for her brand Deliciously Ella) as well as the Duchess herself and cooking videos.
Just like the multipart documentary, all of the footage will be filmed in Frogmore House and gardens.
As this is a family channel, the daughters of Their Royal Highnesses will make appearances in the videos in due course.
I inhale deeply before opening the door of my parents' office. They have no idea what's coming their way but there's no way I'm going to change my mind. Working with Rory and George is what's best for me right now. I can't grow in this firm but I can grow with Rory and George. The future King and Queen consort need my help to establish their names and their brand.
"Jo!" My Mum nearly knocks her chair over as she rises from it and runs over to me. She embraces me tightly and I inhale her scent. We haven't seen each other in weeks. I missed my Mum so much. "You've lost weight."
"I'm fine, Mum." I say before letting go. My Mum's wearing a beautiful royal blue dress that highlights her figure and nude heels.
"Did you enjoy Mexico and French Cay?" Mum asks me as Daddy embraces me tightly.
"Your mother's right. You did loose a few pounds." Daddy says with concern in his bright blue eyes and steel hard voice. As always he's in a light grey suit. He's constantly worrying about my siblings and me.
I roll my sky blue eyes at his words. "I'm fine. I did enjoy the time very much. So much, that I've decided to change careers."
"What?" Mummy's shocked voice tings through the office.
"Yes. I want to work with Rory and George. I'll be on their social media team. They need help to really build and manifest their brand. In addition, they want to build their own Royal Foundation and they need help with that. Help I will provide them with."
"Jo, have you thought about this?"
"Yes and you won't convince me otherwise. I really enjoyed working in the social media department as well as doing Liam's social project for him. It showed me that I am very good in both fields and with Rory and George I've found the perfect way to combine each."
"Good, then your mother and I wish you all the best." Daddy says with a nod. Somehow, I think he has seen it coming long before I knew what I would do.
"No, we do not!" My Mum protests. "Jo, where is this coming from? You always wanted to work here. With us. Why have you changed your mind? Is this because we didn't give you the social media project?" I ask her before looking at my Dad. "Are you fucking happy now?! I knew we shouldn't have moved her to the social media department! She should have kept her office on the same level as us! She's our daughter-"
"Mum," I place my hands on her shoulders. "It's my decision. For now, I will work with Rory and George. I'm sure eventually, I'll do work with Nate and Char as well. And maybe in a year-"
"A year?! Are you nuts?!"
"Maybe in a year, I'll come back. And when I come back, I'll have more knowledge and experience. I'll be wiser and better in what I do. I'm not abandoning you. I'm taking a break from the firm, not the family. Okay?"
She nods, "Okay." She whispers before embracing me again.
"I'm not out of this world." I promise her.
"I know, but it feels like it."
"You'll be an excellent addition to the team." Daddy says with the proud smile of a father on his lips.
"No, I'll be bossy and very demanding. I'm a true Bolton after all." I shrug.
My parents chuckle at my words.
"When will you start?" Daddy asks me.
"Tomorrow. Actually, this evening."
"But it's your first day back!" My Mum is shocked
"No. It's my last day here." I corrects her.
"You know that requires a dinner with champagne then." Daddy starts.
"Oh, no. Really that's completely unnecessary-"
"We're doing it for all employees that leave our firm so we'll do it for you as well." My father insists.
"Except I'm not leaving. I'm simply taking a break to expand my horizon. I'll be back."
"Good. No dinner then." My Mum decides.
Rory's deadline comes to my mind. I might as well introduce Edward to them tonight. "But if you must insist on a dinner-"
"I do." Daddy interrupts me in a steel hard voice.
I lick my lips and grin, "Then perhaps we could turn it into a dinner with four instead of three."
"Four?"
"Yes." I look at Mum before looking at Dad. They want me to say it. "There's someone I'd like you to meet."
"You have a boyfriend?"
"Edward Rothschild to be concrete."
"Edward? I knew it! It happened at Nate's wedding, didn't it?!"
"Mum, I have to get back to work. You'll get all the details this evening during dinner, alright?"
"We're having dinner at home. We're not going out." Mum decides.
That means she's serious. They're going to quiz him and squeeze every little information out of him. Well, that's payback. I had to put up with his crazy parents, now Ed's going to go through the same. "Fine. Ed and I will be there at eight?"
"Eight sounds good."
"Eight is perfect." My Mum's nearly bursting out of excitement.
"Good. I'll see you tonight." I nearly run out of the office because I don't want to talk about Edward and me any further. They'll find out everything tonight anyway.
I go through my emails for the last time. I've delegated my work between my colleagues who, to my surprise, are quite sad about my decision. I had no idea they actually liked working with me! I already texted Ed about tonight and he was delighted about the invite. He said he'd pick me up at half past seven from my penthouse. He's rarely been at my place, he never even slept over there... because my place is still haunted with memories of Oliver. It's been four weeks to this day and he still meets me in my dreams. The only time when I don't think of Oliver is when I'm with Ed.
That's why I stick to him like glue. And he seems to be enjoying it just as much.
After all, we're in a relationship.
"Jo,"
I look up at my father's voice. "Yes?"
"A word?" He says before walking into the one of the many conference rooms that we have on this floor.
I rise from my chair and follow him. I knew my decision hurt him more than he showed. I close the glass door before walking over to him. I cross my arms in front of my chest. "I won't change my mind." I tell him.
My Daddy smiles at me, "I know. This is not about your termination."
I open my crossed arms, "It's about Ed, then."
But Daddy shakes his head. "No, although I do have a lot of questions about him. But I will ask him personally this evening."
"Then, what is this meeting about?"
"I had a meeting with Charles yesterday noon. Your Mum doesn't know about it. He told me he wanted to gift us a coat of arms."
I sit down in the chair across him, "Our family is getting their own coat of arms?"
My Dad nods, "Yes and I'd like you to design it with Thomas Woodcook, the garter of the arms."
"Me?" I ask him shocked. "By all means, Ana is better suited for the job. She's the artist in the family."
"I saw your work in the kindergarten. You're just as talented as Ana. Besides, she's busy with the Academy."
"And the pregnancy." I mumble before covering my mouth. Shit, my sister's going to kill me now!
"She's pregnant?" Dad asks me with wide eyes.
I nod, "Yes but she's still quite early in the pregnancy so maybe that's why she didn't tell you guys yet. Act surprised when she tells you and don't tell Mum." I beg him.
To my surprise, my father nods. "Okay. It'll be our secret."
"Good. I'll think of something for the coat of arms. When can I meet up with Mr. Woodcook?"
"He's expecting you in an hour."
I roll my eyes at his words, "Next time, you better warn me earlier."
Daddy grins at me. "I'm sure you're going to be fabulous."
"It's a great honour to be given a coat of arms. Especially by the King."
"He's still pissed at Char for her wedding dress stunt. From what Nate told me she didn't wear whatever Charles had made for her but I don't blame her. She looked spectacular in the dress."
I smile as the memory of her walking down the aisle fills my mind. "She did." I agree with him before rising from the chair. "Well, I better get going now."
My Dad nods and I turn on my heel. "Oh and Jo?"
I turn around and look at him. "Yes?"
"We both know you won't come back to Bolton's Enterprises."
I frown, "Of course I will."
"No, you'll be working for the Foundation."
I sigh, we've been over this a million times already. "Daddy, my place is where you stand. I don't belong into the Foundation. I will come back to you guys. I will claim my seat at the table in a year whether you like it or not."
My Dad grins at me, "Okay."
I get out of my black Jaguar and walk into U-shaped red bricked building of the College of Arms. It's near Blackfriars, a block away from the Millennium Bridge. St. Paul's, the cathedral in which Charles married Diana, is right behind it. A wonderful area to hold such a historic building.
The hallways are decorated with crests and many coat of arms that have all been designed here. It's no wonder it's located on Queen Victoria street. Hardwood floor and breathtaking transom windows fill the hallways in a very special and also mysterious lightning. The College of Arms is the official heraldic authority for England, Wales, Northern Ireland and much of the Commonwealth including Australia and New Zealand. As well as being responsible for the granting of new coats of arms, the College maintains registers of arms, pedigrees, genealogies, Royal Licences, changes of name, and flags. The heralds, besides having ceremonial duties, advise on all matters relating to the peerage and baronetage, precedence, honours and ceremonial as well as national and community symbols including flags.
It's a true honour to be standing within these walls here.
"Miss Bolton?"
I turn around and stand across an old white haired man. "Yes. Mr. Woodcook?"
The blue eyed man smiles at me before shaking my hands. "Very nice to meet you, Miss."
"Oh, the pleasure is all mine to be walking through these historic hallways and seeing all these crests and coat of arms..." I explain with a smile on my face.
"Follow me, please."
I follow Mr. Woodcook down the hallway, passing dozens of colourful crests. They're so beautiful and all so different! Not one is the same. I have given our coat of arms some thought on the way from the office to here but suddenly, I don't think my ideas are good enough. After all, this artwork will be in the family for forever. It will be given down generations and hang in homes, on the gates, be letterheads... it's a massive responsibility to be designing this.
We walk into a small studio and I sit down across a wooden desk.
"So, tell me something about your family, Miss Bolton."
"Oh, I'm sure you're aware of the basics as you designed my sister and brother's coat of arms." I start with a smile on my lips. I don't know why I'm so nervous out of the sudden!
"Yes of course. The number eight has to be on the shield somehow."
I nod. "I thought about maybe golden stars on a blue background. And maybe two diagonal white lines that represent my parents."
Mr. Woodcook gets out a pencil and a piece of paper. "That's just the first draft." He explains before drawing a normal shield with eight stars. "Most families have a motto which is typically in front of the shield."
A motto? Do we have a motto? I don't know...
"But it's not a must."
We do, I decide after thinking for a moment. "Familia, Concordia, Integritas, Misericordiam. That's the family's motto." I tell him. Family, Unity, Integrity and Kindness. That basically sums us up in a nutshell.
Woodcook writes it into the ribbon that's in front of the shield. "Your father and mother already told me their supporters." He explains as he starts drawing.
Dad didn't mention anything towards me so I watch as Woodcook draws a bear and a unicorn. I get why Mum chose a unicorn as it symbolises extreme courage and joy, something my Mum is known for. The unicorn is also the National animal of Scotland, where the Bolton Academy is located. So really, a unicorn is a smart choice.
But why did Dad chose a bear?
"What does the bear stand for?" I ask Woodcook as he finishes drawing a perfect unicorn and bear.
"A bear represents family protection."
I could have come up with that one myself. Of course my Dad would choose a bear. I have to stop myself from rolling my eyes. "I see... Well, the coat of arms still looks kind of naked."
"We can have some flowers or greenery climbing up the shield."
I think for a moment. "Ivy would be good. And we can add golden acorns on top of the ribbon as well as peonies. Four of each to represent my grandparents, uncles and aunts. Peonies are my mother's favourite flowers and acorns can be found in our backyard. Just like acorns."
Woodcook adds the peonies and acorns. "What animal do you want to put on the crest?"
"An eagle." I answer. Definitely an eagle. It symbolises leadership and decisiveness. Something we're also known for.
"Very well." Woodcook adds the eagle on top of the crest. "Now comes the mantling. Do you have any specific vision? It's usually acanthus in some sort of colour."
"Can we make it more floral?"
"Anything you wish."
"Good then I'd like it to be a mixture of springs of oak, carnation, acanthus, lily-of-the-valley, forget-me-nots, astilbe and astrantia. All in gold please."
"Strength, a mother's undying love, immortality, longevity, rebirth and healing, luck in love and happiness, patience and dedication and strength, courage and protection. You know your flowers very well, Miss Bolton."
It's something that comes with the job of being maid of honour at two royal weddings. "The flowers can be found in our backyard. Additionally, I was at many flower meetings during my time as maid of honour."
Woodcook smiles. "I can imagine." He says as he finishes drawing the mantling. "Now it looks already much more like a coat of arms."
It freaking does! "It's very pretty!"
"But if I may voice a concern,"
"Oh yeah, sure. You've been doing this far longer than me."
"Coat of arms tend to get joined when someone marries. That's when the shield gets cut in half and eight stars squeezed into half the space don't look as beautiful as they do now."
I nod. "You're right. What do you suggest?"
"A flower with tepals would by my choice."
Lily-of-the valley comes to my mind immediately. A row of them is growing in front of the kitchen in my childhood home in Richmond. Della and Ana have the same flower sun their background and even I have a few sprigs growing on my rooftop garden. I lick my lips. "Erase the shield. We'll do an eight pointer shield with a blue background. With three sprigs of lily-of-the-valley in gold. The first two will have four tepals, as we're four girls and four boys. The third sprig will have two tepals for my parents." I decide. The mantling of the shield reminds me of Nate's Harry Potter obsession. The Beauxbatons Academy has a similar mantling. It looks very romantic, mysterious and wild at the same time - kind of like us.
"Ah, yes that's better." Woodcook decides. "Less going on there."
"It's perfect."
"In addition to the coat of arms, His Majesty has also decided to gift you a letterhead and a badge."
Badges are separate heraldic devices which, like shields and crests, are particular to an individual or family. Some of the most well known badges are Royal ones such as the King's feathers which appear on the reverse of the British twenty pence piece. Any person or corporation already entitled to arms may petition for the grant of a badge, and others may do so at the same time as petitioning for a grant of arms and crest.
While arms and crest are personal to their bearers the badge may be used by others wishing to show connection or allegiance to the individual or corporation to whom it belongs. Thus it is appropriate for the employees of a company to wear a tie bearing the company's badge, but not the company's arms. The grandchildren in the female line of a man entitled to arms may not use his arms or crest but can quite properly wear his badge, and often do so in the form of a brooch.
"Oh, wow, really?"
"I'll take care of the letterhead and the badge. I'll email you the final drafts before registering them."
I run my fingers through my hair one last time as I check my makeup and hair in the mirror. Unlike the evening when I met Edward's parents, I don't feel nervous at all tonight. I'm wearing a simple pair of jeans with a white blouse and nude Louboutin high heels. Simple.
Enough for tonight. I don't have to wear fancy dresses all the time.
I can hear how the doors of my lift open with a ping.
"Jo?" Edward's deep velvety voice fills my hallway
Goosebumps crawl up my legs and arms. "I'll be right there!" I cry back as I grab a pair of pearl earrings. I put them on as I leave my walk-in wardrobe and bedroom. My heels thus against the hardwood floor as I walk down the hallway. I spot Edward standing in my living area, in front of the window front that shows London in the sunset.
For a split second I can see Oliver standing there.
That's why I don't like Edward in here.
Ed turns around, "Ready?" He's wearing beige slacks, a white crisp Oxford shirt and a beige jacket with shiny shoes. His blonde hair is perfectly styled and his turquoise eyes are sparkling.
"I told you to dress casually!" I tell him with a smirk on my lips. He looks hot but everyone looks hot in a suit.
"I left the tie at home!" He protests.
I chuckle as I walk over to him.
"Don't I look good?"
I grab the colour of his beige jacket, "Maybe a little too good."
"There's no such thing as too good." He says with a smirk before kissing me. "Especially when meeting your parents for the first time."
"You've met them before!"
"But not as my girlfriend's parents. There's a difference."
I guess there is. "Ready to meet my parents?"
He nods, "You know, I didn't think you'd hold up to your promise. Not so quickly anyway."
"Rory gave me a deadline. We're joining them on their Royal tour this year."
"Are we?"
I nod, "Yes. We're their baby sitters."
Edward chuckles, "Anything for the crown. Where will we be going?"
"Everywhere."
"Everywhere?"
I run my fingers through his hair to mess it up a bit. I like it messy rather than perfect. "All commonwealth countries. A four month trip."
"Four months?" Edward asks me shocked.
"Yeah. We'll start in Australia."
"Okay."
"You're in?"
"Yeah, of course I'm in. It will be our first holiday."
"It's going to be work."
"Yeah but a little bit of holiday as well." He says before grabbing my left hand, "It's the perfect way to announce our relationship."
The cat's out of the sack anyway. The world already knows I'm dating a Rothschild. "We're also joining George and Rory on her first engagement after her maternity leave. She's going to play tennis."
Edward grins, "And we'll sit in the tribune with George?"
"And the triplets. It's going to be a family event. The press will say I wanted to steal Rory's spotlight when we appear together with George to that tennis match."
Ed chuckles, "You can't win everyone's heart."
"No."
"But you've got mine so that's all that matters."
I gulp. He's really been all in since the day I called him and asked him to join me in Mexico. "I hope you don't mind me not saying those words back."
Ed shakes his head, "No, not at all. I will never pressure you in any way, Jo."
I park my Aston Martin in front of my childhood home. The huge U shaped Spanish mansion is glowing in the light of the setting sun. "We're here." I breathe out before killing the engine and opening my belt.
Edward gets out of the silver Aston Martin first and I shut the driver's door shortly afterwards. His turquoise coloured eyes scan the driveway that's filled with pebbles, old oak trees and flourishing lavender. Then his eyes stop at the mansion. "It's a very pretty home already."
"I'm sure it's nothing compared to your childhood homes."
He turns around and looks at me. "I grew up in boarding schools. You know where I spent my summers. My Christmases were usually spent in St. Moritz and I was on some tropical island with my nanny during New Year's Eve." He explains and I can see the sadness in his turquoise eyes.
I grab his left hand and squeeze it softly. He didn't grew up with loving parents. "I'm surprised your father doesn't pressure you to join the family's firm."
"Meredith's the shiny star in the family. I'm considered the black sheep, because I enjoy charity much more than any social events or doing business."
He has never been so open in the last four weeks. He's far more than a hot body and a heart-throbbing smile. He's a philanthropist above all. He's torn between his social duties and his heart's desires. He's a billionaire doing good.
He's just like me.
With the difference that I grew up in a loving household. I didn't grow up in boarding schools. I grew up with my parents' values, they tried to have us home as much as possible while providing us an excellent education. I lick my lips. "I promise, meeting my parents won't be a disaster."
Edward chuckles, "One disaster is enough."
I smile at him as we reach the huge black wooden double doors. "Ready?"
He nods, "Yes."
My hand wraps around the door handle but suddenly I hesitate. My nerves start kicking in. The calmness from earlier is gone. I never introduced a man that I share my bed with to my parents, let alone my boyfriend. Edward Rothschild is my boyfriend. I am in a relationship with him. I will be going on a Royal tour with him!
How the hell did this all happen within the last four weeks?!
"Jo?"
I look at Edward. This is good. This is right. Him and I can be great together. We can be extraordinary even. There's no reason to feel nervous. It's not like we're getting married or anything. He's just meeting my parents.
"Is this going too fast for you?" He asks me with concern in his British voice. He sounds so much different than Oliver. Why is Oliver on my mind?! "Because if it is, than I can call your parents right now to say I'm sick and we can drive away without them noticing we were even here." He offers.
There are cameras all around the gates and fence. They already know we're here. "No. I'm good. This is not too fast. It's a good pace. I just never introduced a man to my parents."
"Never?"
"No. You're the first."
He smiles at me. "Good and I intend to be the last."
My jaw drops open. "Edward, don't joke about this."
He places his hand on mine. "I'm not." With that he pushes the door open for me.
I don't know how I feel about this. Introducing him as my boyfriend is one thing but he clearly wants this to transform into a marriage sooner or later. I'm not ready for that. I don't even want that.
But I follow him into the house anyway.
I take a sip of my white wine and watch the scene that's unfolding in front of me for a moment. Just like predicted, Edward is getting along with my parents perfectly. We're sitting underneath the pergola in the backyard. We've had a fantastic barbecue for dinner. A delicious steak with roasted veggies and a salad. All the veggies were harvested from this backyard. The sun has set so we're sitting at the table which has lots of lit candles. I like the way the flickering light is getting reflected in Edward's eyes. The turquoise of his orbs sparkles even more. It makes me smile.
Ed's been joking with my parents, making them laugh and smile all while we were all enjoying a delicious white from our vineyards in France. I had no idea this would be so easy and so much fun!
"Oh before I forget, Jo has some news." My Daddy starts with a smile on his lips.
"I do?" I ask confused.
"What kind of news?" My Mum asks me.
"She met Mr. Woodcook today." Daddy starts.
"Ah, yes!" I breathe out. For a moment I thought he meant Ana's pregnancy. "We're getting our own coat of arms."
"Really?" My Mum asks us shocked.
"That's amazing!" Ed says before squeezing my left hand. He has barely let go of it during the dinner. I think he was more nervous about this meeting than I.
"Yes. I can show you then first draft." I start before rising from my chair. "I just have to get my mobile out of my purse." I mumble before leaving the table. I left my purse in the kitchen. I think Edward will be fine without me for a minute.
I walk down the pathed way until I reach the kitchen. I open my black Chanel purse that I left on the kitchen island. I get my iPhone out of my purse and unlock the screen. I open my photo app and scroll through my photos, trying to find the one of our coat of arms. I stop at a photo of Oliver and me. My finger taps on it before my brain can catch up.
I stare at my grinning face. My hair was darker, longer and wavier when I took the photo. I'm not wearing any makeup in this photo but that doesn't matter I'm glowing from within. Oliver's smiling into the camera as well. His green eyes shine in a sea foam colour and his beach blonde hair is messy. His caramel skin is a few shades darker than mine, but within the last four weeks I've reached his skin colour. I can still feel his cheek against mine, just like in this photo. A kind of pain that I've never felt before starts spreading in my chest. It's numbing but also burning. It feels like knives stabbing all over my body. I couldn't bring myself to erase this photo yet but I also can't continue looking at it. I slide left, hoping this is the only photo I have of him. But instead, a photo of us kissing fills the screen. For a moment, I can feel his lips on mine and taste him. My throat tightens at the image and tears start burning in my eyes. My lower lip starts trembling. My heart clenches in my chest and the air doesn't seem to fill my lungs anymore. I can't breathe. I can't think.
My other hand wraps around the marbled edge of the kitchen island. Why am I feeling so much pain? Why does this hurt so much?
"Jo?"
I wince as my mother's hand touches my left shoulder. I quickly flip my iPhone and place it on the kitchen island.
"Are you okay?"
I wipe the tears away and inhale deeply with a shaky breath. "Yes."
"Sweetie, you don't look okay." My Mum's chocolate brown eyes are filled with worry.
"Mum, I'm okay." I ensure her.
"Is this about Edward?"
I lick my lips. "Yes." I decide to lie. "His parents didn't like me. I didn't have as a warm welcome as you have given him. It made me worry, that's all."
My Mummy's gaze softens, "You really love him, don't you?"
"Yes." I don't even know if I'm lying this time.
"Then who is the man in the photo?"
Shit. She saw the photo! "I don't want to talk about him."
"Are you happy with Edward?"
"Yes. I didn't introduce him to you guys for nothing."
"Did this other man hurt you?"
I almost laugh at the absurdity of her question. Oliver and hurt me? Those are two things that don't go together. "No. But I've hurt him and for that I will never forgive myself."
She nods. "Okay. Then I won't ask you about the other man again. Because Edward seems to love you as much as you love him and you guys deserve a chance."
"Thank you."
"Edward's very charming."
I smile. "Yes, that he definitely is. He charmed me from the very first second we met. It was sort of weird... he almost swept me off my feet."
My Mum smiles at me. "Really?"
I shrug. "I've never experienced something like this." Not even with Oliver.
"Then I think you should enjoy it and see where this might lead you."
"Do you like him?"
"I do and so does your father. Edward seems to be a very good match to your character. He's a philanthropist and humanitarian, just like you. He's also quite charming and possessives the confidence to be by your side. He doesn't outshine you, but he makes you shine even more. He's kind, protective and loyal."
"How do you know him so well already?" I ask amazed.
"A mother just knows when her child has found their soulmate."
I'm not sure if we are soulmates. Shouldn't I feel some kind of peace or something if he was? I feel like a teenager around him, that's for sure. He makes me grin like an idiot and giggle like an acid-head. I don't know if that means we're soulmates, but it sure has made me break up with Oliver. Because I knew I couldn't resist Edward. And now I don't have to anymore.
I pick up my iPhone and find the photo of the coat of arms, the letterhead and badge. "Here's our coat of arms."
"Oh, Wow it's beautiful!" My Mum zooms into the photo. "And the details of the flowers! What kind of flowers are those?"
"A mixture of of springs of oak, carnation, acanthus, lily-of-the-valley, forget-me-nots, astilbe and astrantia. I thought they were fitting as they grow in our backyard."
"They were an excellent choice. And the three sprigs of lily-of-the-valley in gold!"
"The first two have four tepals, as we're four girls and four boys. The third sprig will has two tepals for you guys. The four golden peonies above the motto are from grandma Vicky, grandpa, Ry and Kelsi. The four acorns are for Daddy's side: uncle Luc, aunt Shai, grandma Diana and grandpa."
"That's very thoughtful of you." My Mum says with a smile. "Has your father seen this yet?"
"No."
She walks out of the kitchen with my iPhone in her hands. I look at my reflection in the mirror and correct my smeared mascara before walking out of the kitchen to join my family. I watch how Edward and my parents all stare at the display of my iPhone. The sun is shining on to them and the birds are tweeting. It's a beautiful warm summer day. Ed already looks like a member of my family. My parents welcomed him with open arms.
Suddenly, Ed looks up and catches me staring at them. He shows me a smile that makes my heart beat faster in my chest and my cheeks flush. I feel like I'm the protagonist in one of those Nicholas Sparks movies that I still watch up to this day with Rory all the time.
Maybe we are soulmates. Maybe this is how it feels like.
The Duchess of Oxford's Royal Return!
The Duchess of Oxford has returned from her maternity much sooner than expected! Lorelai was all smiles as she attended a charity tennis match in Richmond. The tennis Queen was wearing a white tennis dress from Canadian brand lululemon. People might recognise the dress as she last wore it on the day she won Wimbledon in 2040. 2040 was a world record breaking year for the Duchess as she is the youngest Golden Slam winner in tennis history! So of course, the Duchess' return had to be a charity match that she won with a bright smile on her face.
Traditionally, the first outing after giving birth to a baby is a polo match played by the father, but not so with Lorelai and George. This time, Lorelai was the shining star on court while George - alongside Josephine Bolton and her boyfriend Edward Rothschild - sat on the tribune and watched the game with their three beautiful baby girls! The Princesses were seen giggling at Mum Lorelai as she made one point after another. Daddy George and auntie Josephine fed two of the girls with bottles at some point. While Mummy Lorelai seemed to have fun on court she also always had an eye on her daughters.
After all, this is a Mum who will be Queen.
I have one last look at my written plan on my MacBook Pro in front of me. I've written down all the commonwealth country and in which order it would be the most logical to visit. I've already called the embassies in most countries to express the wish of Their Royal Highnesses to visit the country on a private matter. As this tour was not requested by His Majesty The King, I thought I'd have to struggle and do a lot of persuading, but to my surprise all countries were delighted, to say the least, about the plans of Their Royal Highnesses. This Royal tour will be a success, I can feel it in my bones. I can also already see the headlines about Rory and George breaking traditions and taking all three babies with them. The fact that Ed and I get to join them, see the change and amazement happening right in front of our eyes, is just the cherry on top. The moment we announce the tour, the news will go viral, similar to the pregnancy announcement and the birth announcement just a few months ago.
But for now, it's crucial to plan every event during the engagement. From taking photos at tourist attractions like the Taj Mahal to state banquets and meeting with pupils or holding speeches. I've been working with Rory and George's team 24/7 in order to make it happen and while I'm exhausted, I'm also excited. This tour... it will be epic. Sensational. Unforgettable!
I wince as I feel Ed's large hand on my shoulder. "Hey, when are you coming to bed?" He squeezes my shoulder softly with his question.
I place my hand on his, "I'm almost done here. I just wanted to go through my plans one last time."
"It's two in the morning. People usually sleep at that time. You can't contact anyone at this time."
"That's not true. I could contact someone in Australia, New Zealand, Fiji, Hong Kong -"
"But no one in Europe. Let's get back to bed, or in your case into bed for the first time. You've been working your ass off in the last two weeks... you need a break or at least sleep a little."
I sigh and shut the MacBook. I don't know why, but I feel much more creative in Ed'd home rather than in mine. Whenever I'm in my penthouse, I have a writer's block, but here in the flat in South Kensington, I feel free. I'm so thankful that Ed has kindly given me his dinning table to work at. The last two weeks were very busy, but also very successful. Rory's royal return made headlines all over the world and she was praised for being a working Mum so quickly after giving birth to triplets. People also praised George for being a hands-on father and watching the girls whenever his wife was out on engagements. Of course, Rory returned the favour, so naturally a few magazines start questioning why the Oxfords haven't found a nanny yet or how they will handle the triplets on their own in the future - but they're not alone and that's exactly what they emphasise whenever they talk about the girls. They have a whole village behind them - their families. We can all jump in and help out whenever they ask us to. With seven siblings, aunts and uncles, you really have pretty much endless options. One always has time and is happy to babysit in Frogmore House.
"You're right. Let's call it a night." I agree with him and rise from the burgundy velvet chair. It is only now that I realise how stiff my bump has become. "Thanks for giving me the space."
"Mi casa es su casa."
I smile, "I know. You've said that before, but if I'm going on your nerves, just be dead honest and I'll get back to my flat."
"Jo, I was serious."
I frown at his words. "What?" It's two in the morning, I surely can't think straight but is he asking me to move in with him?!
"Move in with me, Jo. You've been here more or less for the last six weeks and I loved every second of it. I love going to bed with you every night - or early morning, since you seem to be a night owl - and I love waking up to you laying next to me."
"It's two in the morning." I mumble, still confused but also a bit surprised. He's moving in a rather quick pace, but somehow it doesn't scare me at all.
"Is that a no?"
"I...No."
"No?"
"I mean, it's not a no."
"So, it's a yes, then?"
"I need to think about it." I answer honestly. At this hour, I would say yes to anything without thinking anything through.
"Okay, that's fair."
Especially since I still haven't told him how I feel about him. The l-word has been hanging over us like a sword of Damocles. I stop in his bedroom and look at his perfectly made beige bed with silk bedding. I enjoy sleeping here with him, much more than sleeping alone in my bed in my penthouse. His flat is right across Hyde Park. I can see Kensington Palace out of his bedroom windows. Edward's home couldn't be any more different than mine. He lives in a Victorian townhouse that has hardwood floors, high ceilings with stucco, marbled chimneys and transom windows. It's nothing like my penthouse at Landmark Place, that's the embodiment of modernity. This right here is traditional.
But my life doesn't fit into the modern penthouse anymore. I quit my job at my parents' firm. Instead, I'm now working with my sister and her husband. I'm babysitting my nieces whenever they ask me to. I started to drink black coffee again because cappuccinos make me want to vomit. I am not the one I was six weeks ago.
I am with Edward.
"Yes." I decide.
"Yes? You mean, you'll move in with me? Wow, that was fast. I thought you needed to sleep on it."
"But after the tour. Packing and moving all of my stuff will take some time." I tell him.
He nods, "Of course. No stress. No hectic. We'll go by our own pace."
Whatever that pace is.
A COAT OF ARMS FOR THE BOLTON FAMILY
His Majesty The King is very delighted to announce the following: A Coat of Arms has been created for The Bolton Family. The design of the Arms was agreed and approved by His Majesty The King and Mr. Thomas Woodcock (Garter King of Arms and Senior Herald in England), who is based at the College of Arms in London.
The Bolton Family worked closely with the College of Arms throughout the design process to create a Coat of Arms that was personal to them and visually identified them as a family.
The blue background of the eight pointed shield represents loyalty, strength and truthfulness. There are three gold sprigs of lily-of-the-valley, that symbolise the power of people to envision a better world, humility, sweetness and happiness. The first two sprigs have each four tepals symbolising the couple's four daughters and four sons: Dr. Dame Adaline Bolton, Her Royal Highness Princess Anastasia of Romanov (GCVO) and Her Royal Highness The Duchess of Oxford; His Royal Highness The Duke of Windsor, Master Elias Bolton, Master Calloway Bolton and Master Gideon Bolton.
The third sprig of lily-of-the-valley has two tepals that symbolise Sir Troy Bolton and Dame Gabriella Bolton.
British Ivy is climbing up the sides of the shield, meaning one that never loses its leaves and symbolises faithfulness.
On a ribbon in front of the shield is the Family's motto: Familia, Concordia, Integritas, Misericordiam (Family, Unity, Integrity, Kindness). On the compartment above the ribbon are four gold acorns and gold peonies symbolising Sir Bolton's twin-brother Mister Lucas Bolton, Sir Bolton's sister Miss Shailene Bolton, as well as Sir Bolton's parents Miss Evelyn Diana Bolton and Mister Franklin Bolton (acorns); Dame Bolton's half-brother Mister Ryan Evans and his wife Mrs. Kelsi Evans as well as Dame Bolton's parents Mrs. Victoria Bolton and Mr. Amelio Montez (peonies). The peonies are Dame Bolton's favourite flowers as well as symbolising compassion and good fortune and the acorns symbolise strength and power.
An Eagle as the crest is sitting on top of the shield, symbolising leadership and decisiveness. The mantling, growing from the crest, is gold with springs of oak (strength), carnation (mother's undying love), acanthus (immortality, longevity, rebirth and healing), lily-of-the-valley (luck in love and happiness), forget-me-nots, astilbe (patience and dedication) and astrantia (strength, courage and protection). All chosen flowers and plants can be found in the backyard of the home of the Bolton Family. Acorns were chosen because in the backyard of the home of the Bolton Family, they have planted oak trees for every child in the months they were born. Additionally, oak is a long-established symbol of both 'England' and 'Strength.' The same applies to the chosen peonies in the family's rose garden.
Finally, Sir and Dame Bolton have each chosen a Supporter that resonates with them.
The Supporter relating to Sir Troy Bolton is a bear which represents family protection and an unicorn for Dame Gabriella Bolton, representing extreme courage and joy. The unicorn is also the National animal of Scotland, where the Bolton Academy (a boarding school led by Her Royal Highness Princess Anastasia of Romanov (GCVO)) is located.
Mr. Thomas Woodcook, Garter King of Arms said: "Sir and Dame Bolton and their children took enormous interest in the design process and the intent was to represent the whole Bolton family together, their home and aspects of what they enjoy.
Every Coat of Arms has been designed to identify a person, school or organisation, and to last forever: heraldry is Europe's oldest, most visual and strictly regulated form of identity and it surrounds us in Britain, giving clues to our history and surroundings.
The Grant of Arms has been made to Sir Troy Bolton and Dame Gabriella Bolton and their descendants in accordance with the laws of Arms, so all of their eight children, including Their Royal Highnesses the Duchess of Oxford and the Duke of Windsor and Princess Anastasia of Romanov (GCVO), are entitled to the Arms.
Master Elias Bolton, Master Calloway Bolton and Master Gideon Bolton (brothers of Their Royal Highnesses the Duchess of Oxford and the Duke of Windsor and Princess Anastasia of Romanov (GCVO)) as well as Dr. Dame Adaline Bolton and Josephine Bolton (sisters of Their Royal Highnesses) will pass the right on to their descendants."
Additionally, the Bolton Family has been given another special insignia. As the family is closely linked with the Royal Family, His Majesty The King has decided to give them an individual letterhead. The first letter of each surname of the Bolton Family (excluding Their Royal Highnesses the Duchess of Oxford and the Duke of Windsor and Princess Anastasia of Romanov (GCVO)) is topped with a curved piece of the mantling, made of the same material as the mantling from the coat of arms.
I pick up my white hat with navy mesh and peacock feathers from the top shelves of my walk-in wardrobe before putting it on. It matches my emerald and plum coloured dress by Jenny Packham and my nude stilettos from Manolo Blahnik. Today's the first day of Royal Ascot, my favourite event of the whole year! Edward and I will be joining my parents in a carriage ride on behalf of his Majesty. He's been working really hard to make it seem like Nate is as welcomed into the firm as Rory once was. He has even had a few solo engagements with Nate. The press praised Nate and the King for it.
I walk out of my wardrobe and bedroom before walking down the hardwood floored hallway. I can see hear Oliver's voice ringing through my ears sometimes when I'm here. But it has become less and less and one day my penthouse won't be hunted by his ghost. And maybe one day I'll stop dancing with his ghost in my dreams whenever I sleep here.
I stop in my living area and see Edward running his fingers along keynotes of my black piano. I haven't touched it since I played for Oliver. Edward's wearing the men's uniform. A black suit with a hat. He looks incredible sexy in it!
"Ready?" I ask him.
"Whenever you are." He answers before looking at me. His turquoise eyes start sparkling with desire. "You look stunning."
"Oh, it's all the hat." I joke before touching one of the three peacock feathers.
He smiles, "Do you play?" He asks before nodding towards the black piano.
I haven't touched that thing since I played on it for Oliver. "Not anymore. My Mum gifted it to me as I moved in. I hardly used it."
"Well, you're welcome to play my piano whenever you please."
"Maybe one day I will." I smile at him before grabbing his left hand. "And now let's go. We can't be late for Ascot!"
"You really love horses, don't you?"
"Yes and I always win a couple of hundred pounds with the bets I make every year." I say as I drag him out of my penthouse. This is not a place of happiness.
Not anymore.
I watch the horses racing with anxiety as I stand in the Royal Box. We're surrounded by British Royals, excluding Char and Nate because they're in Wales over the weekend. It's part of the agreement they have with the King. It's Harewood House for the weekends after all. I miss my best friend. After the royal arrival, just like halftime at a football game, there was a mad rush for the bars and the restrooms. But instead of beers and brats, it's Bollinger and lobster rolls for the average attendees. However we in the Royal Enclosure are dining in the The Balmoral restaurant in the Royal Enclosure with exclusive tables reserved for the Royals and their guests, meaning us Boltons. Yes, there are a few thrilling horse races, accompanied by a tremendous amount of drinking. But the real show is in the garden of the Royal Enclosure, which turns into one big party, and, of course, the Royal Box, which hovers over the stands like the bridge of a massive ocean liner.
Standing in here means you've made it to the top. And the Boltons have made it to the top.
"My parents are here." Edward's whisper fills my ears.
"What?" I ask him shocked. I shouldn't be shocked as it's Royal Ascot. And we're standing in the Royal Enclosure, the most prestigious level of attendance, to members only. Becoming a member is pretty hard as it involves a secret recipe of social stature, connections, letters of reference, and, above all, ambition. On the remaining four days, members are permitted to purchase two guest badges each per day. However, becoming a member has become even harder this year as it's the spouse and children only - to keep it as exclusive as possible of course.
The Royal Ascot certainly lives up to its official motto,"Like nowhere else." A major event on the British social calendar since its founding by Queen Anne in 1711, the annual race meeting, which occurs each July at the Ascot Racecourse in Berkshire, England, remains a heady mix of pomp, tradition, fashion, class distinction and, of course, sport.
I'm here for the sport but most people are here for the fashion. It's all about being seen. Who's wearing the biggest hat and who's wearing the brightest colour. Men are required to wear a full morning suit with waistcoat and either a black or grey top hat at all times. Only black shoes are allowed and in an affront to the current vogue for bare ankles, socks are mandatory. Ladies must wear a hat with a minimum base of four inches (i.e. no fascinators) and dresses with a modest cut. Trousers and jumpsuits are allowed, but again with a caveat: trousers must be worn with a jacket or top "in a matching fabric." There is a wide range of chic to cheeky, but Brits do the "garden party" look quite well, with a mix of bright colours, floral prints and the recent appearance of long, flowing dresses that obviously take their cures from the younger members of the Royal Family. Beyond the Royal Enclosure, each section has its own set of sartorial guidelines. If the Royal Enclosure is First Class, Business Class would be the Queen Anne Enclosure. There, men must wear a suit and tie and women are asked to wear tasteful dresses and a hat. Premium Economy would be The Village Enclosure, with the same dress code as the Queen Anne Enclosure. The Windsor Enclosure is the most relaxed, with no dress code at all. The official website says "vibrant, exciting and fun" which translates to party central, sometimes rather rowdy.
I turn around and look at Edward. "We should greet them." I tell him before looking for my parents. They're chatting with William and Catherine, not giving a shit about the race.
"Are you sure?"
"Yes. I'm not afraid of them." I tell him. "We can chat over tea and scones in the Balmoral restaurant."
"Sounds good."
"Have you talked to them after our dinner?"
He nods, "I think they're going to be nicer to you this time."
"Good, they should. Because I'm not going anywhere." I promise him and squeeze his hand softly. "I'll just get my parents while you get yours. How about we meet in the restaurant in five minutes?" I ask him.
He nods, "Good."
I watch him walking away from me and walk over to my parents who are still in a deep conversation with William and Catherine. Catherine is wearing a cream coloured ensemble by Alexander McQueen with a Philip Tracey hat while my Mummy is wearing a Carolina Herrera ensemble in silver with a hat full of roses. My parents look as elegant as the next King and Queen.
"Can I borrow you guys for a while?" I ask my parents.
"Sure." My mother says.
"Edward's parents are here so we thought we can get together over tea and scones." I tell them.
"We'd be delighted to meet them."
"They're not that nice but I'm not going to leave Ed so you guys might as well meet."
"Okay." My father says with voice in his concern.
"Don't worry. I'll be fine. I'm not afraid of them." I say as we leave the Royal box.
"It's not you I'm worried about."
"What are you worried about then?" I ask him as we walk through the hallway that leads to the Balmoral restaurant. It's obviously named after Queen Elizabeth II.'s favourite home.
"They must have found out about something us they didn't like." My Dad whispers as we pass by the many members who stare at us.
"You think they did a background check on us?" I ask him shocked although I probably shouldn't be.
"Of course. They're the most powerful family in the world. They wouldn't allow their son to date someone they didn't know inside out."
"But maybe they didn't find anything." My Mum says as a staff member of the Royal Ascot holds the door of the restaurant open for us.
"Yeah, maybe that's why they're so concerned. Our skeletons are very well hidden, I mean, not even the royals know about them." I whisper to my parents. I scan the restaurant that's full of member of the Royal Enclosure. We're dining on the rooftop with a view over the racing court. That's where the royals dine as well.
I walk past the many round tables and ignore the gases as my family and I walk down the hallway. We stop at the door to the open terrace. It's a gorgeous summer day.
"Mr. and Mrs. Bolton, Miss Bolton, welcome to Balmoral." Another staff member of the restaurant holds the glass door open for us. "We're serving à la carte options today."
"We'll just have some. Rooibos." My father tells the waiter.
"With scones. Strawberry jam please." My Mum adds with a smile on her lips.
The waiter nods, "Of course."
I walk on to the terrace and spot Edward with his parents sitting at one of the tables with white table cloth and polished cutlery and glasses. Hannah is wearing a lime green outfit with a huge hat that's full of sunflowers. Victor is wearing, just like my father, a black morning suit with a waistcoat and a black hat.
I inhale deeply before walking over to them. "Hannah, Victor, it's so nice to see you again." I greet them with my famous Bolton smile.
"It's nice to see you as well. You look lovely." Hannah greets me with a kiss on each cheek. It's still cold and distant but required in our social circle.
"Josephine," Victoria greets me with a firm handshake. "Nice to see you again."
"Yes. I brought my parents. I hope you don't mind."
"Not at all, it's about time we meet." Victor says.
"It really is." My Dad says before shaking Victor's hand.
"Hello, Gabriella!" Hannah says before embracing my mother tightly.
"I've just ordered tea and scones for us." My Mum tells her.
"Oh, no scones for me. I've got to watch my figure." Hannah says before sitting down.
I look at her. She's as slim as ever. She can eat a scone without growing a size immediately afterwards. But I keep my mouth shut. Instead, I sit down between Edward and my mother. In the corner of my eye, I can see my parents holding hands like they are still teenagers and I guess in their hearts they still are.
I hope Edward and me will be the same when we're their age.
I look at my picture perfect boyfriend and grab his hand. The conversations at the table vanish in my ears as I feel his fingers intertwining with mine. There's nothing I can't do with this man beside me. He's my rock and my protection shield - not that I ever need him to be one. Him and I will do great things together.
After a long day at Ascot, it's nice to finally come home - South Kensington, not my penthouse in Landmark Place. Ed unlocks the front door and I walk in. I slip out of my heels immediately and am thankful for the shift in my body weight. My feet were killing me by the end of the day!
"Now that family get together went alright." Ed answers as he shuts the door close. "I told you my parents would be nicer to you."
They really were. Almost too nice. I found it very creepy. Especially with my parents being just as nice. It almost went too well. "Yeah, they were. I guess, I won't have to worry about them anymore."
"They like you."
"Your parents find me highly unconventional."
"That doesn't mean they don't like you. You're like a breath of fresh air. Your shaking up the Rothschilds' view of women."
"I thought that was your sister's job as you won't follow your father's footsteps."
Ed shrugs, "What can I say? Change comes in small bits. My Dad just provided me the deputy of the Rothschild Foundation. One day, I'm going to be CEO but for now I'm glad I have a seat at the table."
He sounds just like me with my obsession about my parents' firm. I grin. "You're just like me."
He returns my grin, "Perhaps that's why we're so good together." He places his hat on the shoe cabinet.
I take off my hat and place it next to his. Social events have never been more fun. "I want a key." I breathe out.
"I was waiting for you to ask for it. Pull the drawer open."
I pull the drawer open and reveal a golden key on a royal blue cushion. I pick it up and feel how the golden key feels in my hand. It feels right. It feels good.
It feels like I've finally moved on.
"Your Royal Highnesses, we really have to go now." A staff member urges my sister, brother, sister-in-law and brother-in-law.
"I'll take Lenni." I say to Rory and wave with my hands. Seriously my sister and her husband are addicted to their children. They remind me of our parents who were just the same, still are in some ways. It's heartwarming to see but also slightly concerning.
"I'll take Grace." Daddy says and George hands her over.
"And I take Alex." My Mum's smile is as huge as the Buckingham Palace that we're in. Nate hands Alex to my Mum, causing Charlotte to grin like crazy.
"By the end of the year we'll have our own!" Char's excitement fills up the whole red drawing room that we're in. It's the third Saturday of July, meaning Trooping the Colour. The tradition was started by Queen Elizabeth II to celebrate the monarch's birthday and King Charles has chosen to continue with the tradition. It includes a traditional ceremony full of military pomp and pageantry with Trooping the Colour on Horse Guards Parade. Marking the King's official birthday, this annual event features hundreds of officers, horses and musicians from the Household Division in ceremonial uniform. But the highlights are the carriage rides with the Royals and the epic balcony appearance to watch the fly past. The triplets are a little too small for their first official appearance but next year they'll be on the balcony with their parents. It's expected of the Brits to see the new heirs to the throne and George as well as Rory are aware of their royal duties.
"You know next year, you might want to bring Edward to this. We could really use an extra pair of hands then." Nate says with a smirk on his lips. He was on team Edward from day one and I guess I converted. I'm now part of team Edward.
"He'll be there." I promise Nate as Lenni starts grabbing my hair and pulling on it. "He wanted to come today but he got busy with work..."
"He spoke to me about making you director by the way." George says with a smile. "And I agree it's a brilliant idea."
"Wait, you're appointing me director?" I ask Rory and George confused.
"Your Royal Highnesses, your carriage is waiting." The man of the royal household says again. I think he's starting to freak out.
"Yeah." Rory says with a smile before she follows her husband out of the red drawing room.
"Congratulations!" Nate embraces me as Char follows Rory.
"Nate, come on! You're holding up everything!" Char cries.
Nate lets go of me. "I'll see you guys later." He promises me is before running out of the room.
The huge white wooden door with gold embellishments gets closed by servants and we're alone in the room that's known as the red drawing room because of its red satin wallpaper. There's a golden chimney, a golden rimmed mirror and lots of oil painting hanging in here. The hardwood floor is polished, the red sofas are clean and the mahogany drawers, desk and tables are perfectly in shape despite their age. There are sheer curtains behind the wall of transom windows. We're on the second level, three rooms separate us from the famous balcony.
"What were they talking about?" My Mum asks me.
"Rory and George have asked me to set up their foundation. And I asked Edward for some advice. For organisations that could really profit from a collaboration with the royals. He has helped me through the jungle that is registering a charity foundation, finding secretaries for it and all that jazz." I explain.
"They want their own foundation?" Dad asks me surprised.
I nod, "They'll announce the split from the Royal Foundation of their parents in a week. And a few days later they will announce their foundation."
"What's the name?"
"Oxford Royal." I answer. "Short and simple. Easy to remember. It's going to be epic. Rory, George, Edward and I have really put a lot of work into this."
"Why didn't you ask us for help?" My Mum asks me.
"I'm a grown up. I don't need my parents holding my hand as I make my way through the world." I pull Lenni's fingers out of my hair.
"What about Edward?"
"What about him?"
"Will he work for the Foundation as well?"
I shake my head, "No. He has the Rothschild Foundation. His father finally gave it to him after years of fighting him. Victor wanted Ed to work in his firm but since he has Meredith, Ed's sister, he seems to be happy about it. He knows Ed is not a businessman. He's a humanitarian."
"Like you." My Daddy says with a smile on his lips.
"Maybe." I say with a shrug. I'm not ready to give up my plan to come back to my parents' firm in a year. But I can also see how it's starting to get harder every day to turn my back on all the good that I've been doing with Rory and George. It's a balance act. I had no idea how much I would enjoy working with them on all these different projects. They've expanded by horizon in a way I didn't know was possible.
But so did Edward. He makes me happy in a way I've never felt before. The longer we're together, the better I feel. Still, I couldn't return the l-word yet. It's been five weeks and he's still as patient as ever. Maybe because he has faith in us and that one day I will see it too. I just need a little bit more time.
"Everything okay with you guys?" My Mum asks me.
I nod, "Yeah. We're doing great. He asked me to move in actually."
"What did you say?" My Dad asks me.
"I said yes."
"So, it's safe to say we'll need to safe him a seat for Christmas Eve then." My mother reads between the lines.
We haven't talked about it yet. For a second, I'm sure he wants to spend Christmas Eve with his family. But then I remind myself of him telling me that he spent Christmas in St. Moritz with his nanny most of his life. "Yes." I decide. "He will be joining us on Christmas Eve."
"Fabulous!"
"Mum," I narrow my eyes at her. "It's just Christmas Eve."
"I know..."
I have a feeling she doesn't believe me.
The new Fab Four at Trooping the Colour!
Just a few weeks after the fairytale wedding of Princess Charlotte to Mr. Nathanial Bolton, the now Duke and Duchess of Windsor (a title no one expected them to get as Albany and Clarence was the hottest guess) joined the Duke and Duchess of Oxford in their carriage on the way from Buckingham Palace to the Horse Guards parade. The young royals, known as the Fab Four, were seated in the first royal carriage that emerged out of the gates of Buckingham Palace as the national anthem was played. Trooping features two carriage rides - from the Palace to the Horse Guards Parade and then back down the Mall to the Palace - and they provide the opportunity for stunning photos of the senior royals. There is no doubt there is prime seating and not so prime seating. The prime seating is always facing forward. It permits the crowd the best view of the royal passenger and it also provides great lines of sight for photographers, which is how we get so many portrait like photos of the royal women. Before Charlotte's marriage, she always sat across her mother Kate and grandma Camilla with brother Louis, but when she married, she got an upgrade - to the Oxford carriage.
Last year, Charlotte and Louis got their own carriage, and there were beautiful shots of the Wales siblings. Putting the Windsors in one carriage with the Oxfords, is a massive statement from the Royals. While Louis was in one carriage with Mum Kate and grandma Camilla, in the "B seating," as he didn't face the crowds. The Palace was highlighting its major players, the heir family and the newlyweds.
Some articles discussed the body language in the carriage, with headlines that George looked uncomfortable. While we wouldn't agree with George looking uncomfortable, but there was a hint of awkwardness because everyone in the carriage understood the score. George and Charlotte most of all, because they have been raised as royals and understand the niceties of placement better than anyone, but both Lorelai and Nate have been playing this royal - or royals in waiting - game for years, too. But the Oxfords kept a smiling face on throughout, which is always the best course of action. They didn't seem to mind being seated in the B seating.
In fact, they even whispered words into each other's ears and giggled together like they didn't even notice the millions of people cheering them from the sidelines.
Experts also noted that the Palace didn't miss the opportunity to put on "a display of solidarity and friendship" by placing the Duchess of Oxford and the Duchess of Windsor in close proximity on the balcony. But at the same time it was very clear that at this event, the Palace clearly placed the Oxford family in a prime position, as their place in the hierarchy requires, and stashed Charlotte and Nate next to them; it wasn't an accidental choice. The Palace was making a statement - perhaps as much to Charlotte and Nate as to all of us. You can't fight the Palace. The primary royals are those who will inherit the throne - everyone else is a supporting character. The extent to which Charlotte and Nate attempt to buck, or appear to buck, the system will determine the force of the push-back they receive from the Palace.
Interestingly, the carriage that followed was the one with Prince Louis along with the Princess of Wales inside, the Duke and Duchess's brother and mother. Although the Princess of Wales is above the Oxfords and Windsors in the line of succession, the King decided to still have the carriage with the current and next Queen behind the young royals. Could that mean the Duke of Oxford is going to take over more work from his father the Prince of Wales and His Majesty The King? He has already been attending meetings and holding audiences with His Majesty The King - and so did Duchess Lorelai during her pregnancy.
The Oxford's were beaming even more than the Windsors as they greeted the cheering crowds with waves and smiles. The Duchess of Oxford showed no signs of being the mother of triplet girls as she had her slim figure back already. Duchess Lorelai wore a bright pink dress with a floral Philip Tracey hat that she wore to her brother's wedding . But this time she paired the hat with a Dior dress and coat instead of the Alexander McQueen ensemble she wore at the wedding. Nevertheless, she looked breathtaking in both outfits. But what really caught the eye of the Royal fans all over the world was the third ring on the Duchess's left ring finger. Duchess Lorelai now seems to have been gifted an eternity ring - a diamond ring that is gifted for special occasions such as a wedding anniversary or the arrival of the first (or in the Duchess's cause first, second and third) baby. The ring is made out of yellow gold (like the Duchess's engagement and wedding ring) with a band of emeralds (the birthstones of the Oxford Triplets) in the middle. It's very likely that the eternity ring was gifted by the Duke to mark the special birthday of their three little princesses - hence people also call it the baby carriage or the push gift. It is very likely that stones will be exchanged if the Duchess gives birth to another baby in the future.
Her now sister-in-law the Duchess of Windsor was all smiling and glowing in her pale green ensemble by Jenny Packham. It looks customised as Packham is not known for those kind of dresses and coats. The Duchess of Windsor paired it with a fascinator from Noel Stewart.
It's so wonderful to see the Oxfords and Windsors united and forming a phalanx!
Who wore it best? Duchess of Oxford stands next to Duchess of Windsor on the balcony!
The Duchess of Oxford stood next to the Duchess of Windsor on the balcony appearance of the Royal Family to watch the fly past over Buckingham Palace. Both Duchesses were smiling and giggling with their husband and one another, but we couldn't help but compare the outfits of the two ladies.
While the Duchess of Oxford surprisingly went for a very fitted cut by Dior in bright pink, the Duchess of Windsor went for a more loose cut of her pale green Jenny Packham dress. We would have expected it the other way around as the Duchess of Oxford have birth to triplet girls just a little over a month ago, but pregnancy pounds seem to have no effect on the Duchess!
Both women looked radiant and stunning - as did their husbands. The Duke of Oxford was seen joking with the Duke of Windsor, who did very well on his first appearance as an official Royal Family member at the Buckingham balcony. Of course, the last time he was photographed there was at his sister's wedding day, but back then he was just the brother of, whereas now he is the Duke of Windsor.
But that still means he is below his sister and brother-in-law. Which means, the Duke and Duchess of Windsor have now to curtsy to not only Duchess Lorelai, but also her three girls, Princess Alexandria, Princess Eleanor and Princess Grace of Oxford.
And we can't wait for the day those curtsies will be made for everyone to see.
Can you imagine the photos?
Mystery Solved! The Meaning Behind Lorelai Bolton's New Ring Revealed
Lorelai Bolton's stunning new ring caught the eye of many royal and fashion fans when Lorelai debuted the new piece of jewellery at Trooping the Colour over the weekend.
The eternity ring, which the new mom wore next to her wedding band and engagement ring, is a gift from husband Prince George, we can confirm.
The latest addition to Lorelai's jewellery collection was spotted by fans as she waved to the crowd on the ride to Buckingham Palace with sister-in-law the Duchess of Windsor, brother Nate Bolton who is now the Duke of Windsor, and her husband the Duke of Oxford.
Eternity rings are traditionally gifted following a milestone event, like the birth of a child or a wedding anniversary, and are typically covered in diamonds in an infinite loop around the band. But not so Lorelai's ring - as always the Duchess is a bit extra. As fans noticed, her eternity ring is not made out of diamonds but emeralds, which are the birthstone of her daughters. If the couple has more children in the future, it seems very likely that Lorelai would trade some emeralds for other birthstones.
Lorelai isn't the first royal to sport such a ring - father-in-law Prince William gave Kate an eternity ring after the birth of their first child, Prince George, the Duchess's husband.
Lorelai and Prince George have recently celebrated the birth of their first three children, triplet daughters Princess Alexandria, Princess Eleanor and Princess Grace of Oxford, who were born on May 9 less than three months prior the couple's first wedding anniversary.
The girls didn't join their parents at Trooping the Colour, as at only ten weeks old, they are too young for the event. But they weren't left at home in Frogmore House. In fact the Oxford Fam was snapped when they drove into Buckingham Palace with a full car of baby seats! Fans of the young royals can expect to see the Oxford Triplets again at their Royal Christening, which will likely take place this summer.
The outing marks the first time Lorelai and Prince George have been spotted in public since the girls' birth last month. While both parents are on paternity leave it is nice to see them again although the appearance was a break for both and we shouldn't get our hopes up for more appearances like this in the near future.
Lorelai and George have been enjoying their adjustment to parenthood. It has been said that Lorelai is breastfeeding the girls, who are still being taken care of exclusively by family members, and George is changing the nappies while also sharing the night shifts with his wife. Having triplets is hard work but the couple was beaming at the cameras without a sign of sleep deprivation.
Oxford Triplets make unofficial debut at Trooping the colour!
The Oxford Triplets made their unofficial debut at Trooping the colour, the official event to celebrate the monarch's birthday. While Mummy and Daddy stood on the famous balcony of Buckingham Palace to watch the fly past, their triplet girls viewed the fly past as well - through a window at the far right, being held by grandma Gabriella, grandpa Troy and auntie Josie! A camera made the snap that's going viral. The Boltons took a peek outside the white transom windows of Buckingham Palace to watch the fly past themselves and show the girls what's it going to be like when they make their first official debut next year.
It is unclear who held whom but this just shows how much the Boltons are part of the Royal Family. King Charles is clearly fond of them as Duchess Lorelai is his favourite granddaughter-in-law - he gifted George and her two dukedoms for their wedding, the Dukedom of Norfolk and Oxfordshire - but the Duke of Windsor has to be pretty close to him as well since he has created the Dukedom of Windsor for him and Charlotte. Windsor was his beloved mother's favourite town.
The snap taken of the Princesses of Oxford shows that the Duke and Duchess still haven't found a nanny for their offspring, which according to Daily Maily turns out to be much harder than they thought. Daily Maily reported that the Duke and Duchess of Oxford would prefer to have two nannies, one male and one female. Perhaps they should look a 150 km further west, since Bath is where the famous Norland Nannies get trained. Lorelai and George were both raised by Norland Nannies, a Spanish one named Maria took care of George and his siblings while an Italian nanny called Valentina took care of Lorelai and her siblings. Given this information, a Norland nanny seems evident - but why haven't they hired one yet?
Maybe because they want to be much more hands-on parents as George's and Lorelai's parents were with them. Perhaps this is also why they are relying on family and themselves right now instead of the outstandingly well trained nannies of Norland College from Bath.
We can't wait for more outings of the Oxford Family along with the Boltons, who seem to be a solid part of the Royal Family now.
As soon as the famous balcony appearance is over, Charlotte's navy eyes find me in the red drawing room with the rest of our family. The Royals, the Boltons and the Middletons will all have dinner together shortly in the ball room, where hundreds of state banquets have been held. My sister-in-law is wearing an outfit by Jenny Packham in pale green. She had on the matching hat but took it off as the dinner is now approaching and hats as well as fascinates are not worn at dinner time. She looks lovely in Jenny Packham. No wonder she chose to wear her for her wedding.
"Can I talk to you?" She asks me before grabbing my hand and pulling me into a room next door. We haven't talked since I came back from Mexico and French Cay. I didn't even tell her that I met Edward's parents, let alone agree to move in with him. A lot has happened in so little time.
"What's wrong?"
"You and Edward - are you guys for real?" She asks me in a breath.
"Yes. We met again at your wedding and ever since I couldn't stay away from him."
"What happened to Oliver?
"I ended it, what else?"
"So, he's out of your life. Just like that?" She snips with her fingers.
"Yes. In fact, he's back in Rio with his family."
"He fucking fled to Brazil?!" She asks me shocked. "Jo, what the hell have you done to him?"
Anger starts boiling in my veins and I place my hands on my hips. "I never promised him faithfulness let alone unicorns and rainbows. What we had was strictly based on our sexual attraction and nothing else!"
"Bullshit! You guys flew to Finland for Christ's sake to see bloody Northern Lights!"
"Charlotte,"
"No, just fucking admit you've developed feelings for Oliver so you can jump into a jet and bring him back to London!"
"Of course, I have developed feelings for Oliver. I am not a robot after all. But I am not in love with him as he is or was with me. What we had, never had a future."
"And you and Ed have?"
"Yes. We share more than just sexual attraction. I met his parents and he met mine. We were in Mexico together for two weeks. I don't fight with him like I fought with Oliver. We laugh together. He's my support and I'm his. He asked me to move in with him and I said yes. I am moving on, whether you like it or not."
"But I thought you love Oliver."
"Well, you thought wrong." I tell her with all honesty.
"Do you love Edward?"
"I don't know but I'm willing to give us a real shot. He fits into my world in a way Oliver never did. All of this," I gesture with my hands through the air, "is no place for Oliver but it is a place for Edward Rothschild. Some doors only open when you have the right last names."
Charlotte shakes her head, "I don't like what he's turning you into. Oliver made you compassion but Edward-"
"Charlotte, be very careful and selective over your next words." I warn her.
"Edward's not half the man Oliver is. And you will see that. But when you do it's going to be to late and Oliver will have long moved on. You belong with him not Rothschild."
"Fuck you!" I hiss at her before turning on my heel.
"Josephine, you can't run away from your true feelings!" She cries after me.
I flip her the bird. "You're full of hormones, you don't know what you're talking about."
I unlock the black wooden door with my golden key. It's near midnight so I decided to sleep over at Ed's flat again as it's closer to Buckingham than my own place. The design of his flat has really started to grow on me. I no longer miss my penthouse view, instead I enjoy the view of Hyde Park and Kensington Palace. I don't need to see the city below me anymore but instead I'm a part of it. I like being part of my hometown. I like coming home.
I quietly shut the front door behind me and walk into the flat. This will be my home after the Royal tour and I like it. I like that Edward's sharing this with me. He has given me his heart and his flat and I guess it's my time to return the favour. I switch on the lights in the hallway before slipping out of my heels. The birthday dinner after the balcony appearance of the Royals was quite tensed. I ignored Charlotte as I decided to give my attention to people worthy of it: my three nieces, siblings and parents. I know my best friend has a strong opinion, she always did but she crossed a line earlier.
I was actually glad to get out of Buckingham for the first time and go home. Go home to Edward.
"Home already? This must be a new record."
I look up from my shoes and stare at the handsome man that's standing in the doorway of our bedroom. He's just wearing a pair of black silk pyjama bottoms. No shirt. No shoes. No socks. My eyes stuck like glue on his abs for a moment before slowly moving further north. His turquoise eyes are sparkling and he's smiling from ear to ear.
My heart skips a beat and a tingling sensation fills my toes and fingertips. The need starts pulsing between my legs but more so a warm feeling spreads from my chest.
Charlotte's wrong. Edward is not my rebound. This is real. We are real. My feelings for him are real. They have nothing to do with Oliver. It's about Edward and I.
"I love you." I breathe out in a whisper. It doesn't seem daunting to say these words back. Not to him.
"What?" Edward asks me shocked before walking over to me.
I clear my throat and ignore the painful stitches in my stomach. "I love you." I tell him again. I couldn't make Oliver happy, but I can make Edward happy.
"Really?"
I nod as Edward's large hands wrap around my waist. "Yes. I can't wait to move in with you after the Royal tour."
"I love you, too." He says before kissing me passionately.
I wrap my arms around his neck as I get lost in his kiss. He holds me tight, allowing me to get lost in him... in us. He'll keep me safe. I won't have to worry about a broken heart with him.
He will never have the kind of power over me that Oliver had.
Thank you for taking the time to read this chapter. I hope you enjoyed it!
Do you think Charlotte is right? Is Ed or is Oliver Jo's soulmate?
As always, please review!
In gratitude,
Nicole