Birkdale, a couple days later
Granger was working out in the gym when Luke came by with a message.
'It's from Trentford, and it smells like it's from a girl!' Luke said, beaming.
'Really? Give me that.'
The letter said:
'Dear Owen. Bet you never expected to hear from me so soon! Well, I haven't really been able to stop thinking of you, so. I hope we can meet up soon. If you can, meet me tomorrow evening at Lake Leanne. I have directions on how to get there.
Hope to see you soon. Hetty.'
'Oooh, is it from Miss Henrietta by any chance?' Luke asked, curious.
'Keep this between us. Got any ideas on how to get to this lake with as little detection as possible?' Granger asked.
'I know of a few. But sir, if you're thinking of courting her, the press will eventually find out.'
'I'm just going to see her, not ask her out on a date!'
'If you say so.'
The next night, at Lake Leanne
Hetty was surprised to see Granger sneaking around in dark clothes.
'Wow. Almost didn't see you there! You sure it's a good idea to be sneaking around a princess in that getup?' Hetty asked, mischiviously.
'Just trying to see if I can avoid as little detection from any reporters as I can. Did any follow you?' Granger asked.
'No. There's ways to keep the press out of this area, which makes this place perfect for secret meetings. Plus, it's a beautiful place. Come, sit with me.'
They sat down on a bench facing the lake.
'So, why is this lake named after your mom?' Granger asked.
'It was my dad's idea. He proposed to her out here, and he wanted to remember that moment in a special way.' Hetty replied.
'Wow, that's really sweet.'
'So, how are you doing? Any messy fallout from that bar fight?'
'Other then the press speculating that I was trying to help you because I secretly like you, nothing. You?'
'Usual rumors and disgust. Along with my mom's team of advisors being furious. She never listens to them, and for good reason, they're terrible!' Hetty said.
'Then, why keep them around at all?' Granger asked, curious.
'Because messing with their egos and brains is a lot of fun!'
Chuckles. 'You're scary.'
'I know.'
Silence.
'As weird as this will sound, I haven't been able to stop thinking of you since you left. I'd like to get to know you more, see where, whatever this is might lead us.' Granger said.
'I'd like to get to know you better too. Though, the press will be tricky to avoid.' Hetty replied.
'Let them talk.' Then they held hands.
'Your touch feels, nice. If that's not weird.' Hetty remarked.
'Not weird at all.'