Sleep, no matter how Gen insisted I got some, came slowly and morning arrived too fast. I follow Gran around mutely for most of the morning. Only as we started to eat brunch do I start to perk up. Gradually, my eyes open to a more alert state, and a smile begins to play on my lips. Gran notices and smiles at me.

        It�s odd, but she seems happy that I�ve found Gen. For the longest time I�d been worried about how I�d get Gran to accept any girl I was interested in. Dad and his siblings had such a hard time finding someone who was �good enough� for them. Besides Scott, there seems to be nothing that Gran sees as a problem. Last night Jonathan arrived from England by her orders to protect Gen. That is one of the biggest signs of acceptance I�ve ever seen from Gran. I wonder how close she expects to get with Gen. Maybe they�ll have a good relationship like what Gran and Mom should have had. Gran can be a royal pain in the ass if she wants to be. She has a stubborn streak that the whole family knows. Some of us even inherited it. Gen has the sort of attitude needed to make it with Gran, though. She has a strength that Gran will appreciate. Neither of them will lower themselves for another. She is a woman who earns respect. She�ll make a good queen one day. Maybe Gran sees that. She wants me to have a wife who will give the support a king needs, but who will expect me to stand on my own. I don�t doubt she sees the distance as an advantage. When Gen and I are married, there will be times when we will have to be apart for long periods of time.

        I don�t know how I�ll do it. Just being without her for the last day has been hard. I don�t know how I�ll make it through the next few years seeing her only when schedules allow.

        When will I be able to see her next? I can�t take her with me � the media would have a field day, and Gen has other commitments. That takes me to the end of July back in London. Gen is working at her camp all summer... But she has a week off in the middle of the summer! I�ll have to check when it is. Hopefully, I�ll be able to surprise her just as she finishes her last week before the break. The next time we see each other won�t be under nearly as happy conditions probably I don�t doubt that she will come over to England for the anniversary of mother�s death, and I�ll be coming over for Scott�s. It�ll be hard on Gen being the first year. Honestly, I�m kind of worried she�ll start doubting being with me. She really loves him, and while she says she loves me, I don�t know how deep it goes in relation to her loss. I couldn�t handle loosing her to a dead guy. No matter how grateful I am. So, I�ll have to arrange a flight here for that weekend. Too bad for any classes I�ll miss.

        Just another ten minutes of this visit. Then I get to get in the limo and see Gen.

        I drop Carlie off at school five minutes before the bell. She isn�t exactly prepared for her test, but I quizzed her all the way in so she should do all right. I then drive to my apartments, go for a short run along the river, then shower and change into a pair of wine-colored dress pants (relatively form fitting) and a black shirt. I pile my damp hair on my head in a messy up-do. Mom loves it when I wear my hair like this. I hope Wills likes it. Scott preferred it down, so he could run his fingers through it.

        Then again, whether Wills likes it or not, this is a good idea. Makes certain Wills keeps his hand to himself. Somewhat. Not that I don�t want them, but with Elizabeth right there it isn�t the best idea. I just want to be in his arms again.

        At quarter to ten I call down to the door that I am expecting a limo to pick me up and ask them to page me when it arrives. Finally, at half past I get the call and head down.

        �Miss Hudson,� the older man holding the car door says as I approach. I nod and allow him to help me in. I pause for a moment to allow my eyes to adjust to the dark interior and am surprised to see another person already in the limo. I sit down in the seat by the door and wait.

        �Miss Hudson?� he inquires. At my nod he continues, �I am Jonathan Plante. The Queen has asked for me to be assigned as your bodyguard.�

        Again, I nod.

        �You understand that I am expected to be near you at all times?�

        �What is the point of a bodyguard if he isn�t always there? You know how to ride?�

        �Yes. What difference does that make, though, if I may ask?�

        �You�re stuck with me every single day, you can ask anything you want,� I say. �I�m leading a riding camp this summer, so we�ll be out almost every day.�

        �That�s why they were looking for someone who could ride. You�re French, too, right?�

        �How�d you guess?� I ask with a smile.

        �I speak it,� he says in French. �And your name is very French. Except the Hudson. Is your father English?�

        �No. My boyfriend was. He died in October. I was named heir to his parents� estate and took their name.�

        Jon lets out a whistle. �That�s what, eight months ago? You must be pretty serious with Will though for me to be here. You�re moving on pretty quickly.�

        �No. I still miss him. But I have to move on, right? And being with Wills feels right. He is being very good to me, very patient and loving. I feel very selfish, but Wills seems to think I�m giving more than I�m taking. I don�t let the press bother me, is all.�

        �He�ll be very grateful for that. He�s learned to not put a lot of faith in them,� he stops and looks out the window. �Looks like we�re here. They�ve got two cars going now. You, Will, and we unfortunate fellows are in here, and the Queen and Phillip in the other.�

        �How long?� I ask.

        �They�re on their way out.�

        I move over to the other side of the car by Jonathan and try to wait patiently. After what seems like ages, they finally come out of the building and move to the cars. Finally, Wills steps in and sits down. He holds up a finger signaling me to wait as his bodyguard enters and the door closes. Quickly, I move to him and he wraps his arms around my waist, pulling me into his lap. I giggle softly as he kisses my cheek.

        �Hello, beautiful,� he whispers in my ears. �You look radiant this morning.�

        �How would you know? You can�t see a thing in here!� I laugh, though I do feel the color rising to my cheeks.

        �You always look gorgeous,� he says then kisses me gently on the lips. I return the favor enjoying the feeling of him holding me so close. However, a couple of wise cracking bodyguards pull us from our little world.

        �No wonder they get a car of their own. The queen wouldn�t be able to sit through this,� Jonathan mutters.

        �You didn�t see them when they were out riding. If you think this is bad...� Wills� bodyguard says.

        Wills sighs into my lips, regretting his next move before he makes it.

        �Do you two have a problem?� he asks. I relax into his chest, my butt on one side of his legs, my feet on the other. Wills holds me tightly.

        ��Course not Will,� his guard says with a grin. �Go on snogging with your girl. You don�t get much time with her.�

        �Thanks for your permission,� Wills answers.

        I kiss him lightly then say, �It could be worse,� a twinkle in my eye, daring them to challenge me. I feel Wills� curious gaze on me.

        Jonathan looks at me for a moment and realizes I mean what I say. He challenges my gaze, but backs down when he realizes I know what I�m talking about and will act on it.

        �Bah, this show is bad enough,� he says, then mutters in a quiet voice I can barely hear, �Besides, we don�t need Wills any more aroused.�

        I force back a laugh and look up at Wills, love shining in my eyes. He returns the look, emotion filling his eyes, turning them a very attractive dark ocean blue. God, those eyes are gorgeous. Our eyes locked, he lowers his head to mine. Just as our lips meet for a brief, gentle moment, my eyes flutter closed, opening again as he moves back, the loving gaze never leaving my eyes. Even slower than before my Wills lowers his face to mine and we kiss longer, more passionately. Again he pulls back, this time only far enough to whisper, �I love you, Gen� before resuming kissing me. Gradually, all my other senses fade, and I am aware only of Wills; his lips, his body against mine, the movement of his hands over my back.

        Quite suddenly, we are drawn back to reality as the limo stops in front of the hospital. Wills eases out of the embrace and I slide off his lap to the seat beside him then follow Wills out. Not once do we break contact. Out of the car, in full view of the paparazzi, Wills takes my hand in his and leads us into the building. I smile sweetly and look at Wills lovingly as we go. The noise is nearly deafening, and the lighting blinding, but with Wills by me, it is wonderful.

        �You�re officially, visibly, in the eyes of the world, my girl,� he whispers in my ear as we walk. �I love you.�

        I feel my cheeks flushing, but whisper, �I love you,� back. Wills, much to my chagrin, has better control of his features and smiles lovingly at me. Damn him!

        Gen�s whispered �I love you� sends chills down my spine. Though she was the first to say it last night, this is the first time she�s said to directly to me. I want to kiss her more passionately than in the limo, but I resign myself to a loving gaze. As I look at her, I notice a flush to her face and smile. At least she isn�t immune to my charms. Regretfully, I turn my attention to the crowd and wave to them. Thankfully, Gran doesn�t stop to talk to any of them, and though I notice a few girls with teddy bears likely intended for me, I follow her in, Gen at my side.

        Inside is an open area with many of the staff standing to meet us. I notice a few curious looks directed at Gen, but most had some state of recognition on their faces as well. Gran gives a little speech, they applaud, and we split to start shaking hands.

        �Wills,� Gen whispers uncertainly in my ear.

        I wrap my arm around her waist, pulling her close to me. �Just make polite conversation and shake hands. I�ll stay right beside you.�

        She nods and we move to the line of doctors to our right. Slowly, we move down to the sounds of polite �your highness�s and �Miss Delarier� or �Miss Hudson�s. Gen wasn�t kidding when she said that most people knew who she is. We were nearly at the end of the line when it happened. I had shaken hands with a couple of doctors who were introduced as being from ICU, Gen stopped.

        �Gen,� the senior doctor says, quietly. �You�re looking much better than the last time I saw you. How have you been doing?�

        �Quite horribly until I met William,� she answers. �Wills,� she says to me, �this is Jacqueline and Zack. They were Scott�s doctors.�

        I nod and shake their hands again. I have no clue what to say.

        �Gen, if you don�t mind me asking, are the two of you -?� Zack asks.

        �It�s amazing how close you can get with a person in just a few days,� she answers with a nod.

        �We�ll let you get on, but it was good to see you again, Gen,� Jacqueline says.

        �You too,� Gen says and we move on down the remainder of the line. As we begin to walk down the hall behind our guide, I wrap Gen�s arm though my own.

        �How are you doing?� I ask.

        �I could have done without seeing Jacqueline and Zack, but I�m alright. I�m glad I�m with you,� she says and holds my arm a little tighter.

        �I�m glad. This day is much better with you here.�

        She gives me a beautiful smile and we continue on in a relaxed silence listening to our guide. Finally, the tour finishes and we move to visit some of the patients. Someone had decided that our party would be too large, so Gran and Grandfather went together, and Gen and I were another group. We get a new guide and continue on to the children�s ward. We visit room after room of young patients, having their conditions told to us before we enter. The smiles and grins and looks of surprise on their faces are wonderful to see. Gen just let her love radiate, bringing color and warmth to the sterile, white hospital rooms. We leave yet another room and continue down the hall.

        �Why did we leave that room?� Gen asks about a room which had the door slightly ajar and the television on.

        �That�s Sarah Noftel�s room. I�m afraid she is not the easiest child to work with. She is very bitter and cynical. The head of the ward decided not to put her on the visit list.�

        �It sounds like she needs the visit more than the other children we�ve seen. May I go in?� Gen asks.

        Uncertainty wavers across his face, but I turn and begin to walk back to the room we passed. �What is wrong with her?� I ask.

        �Liver failure and she has very difficult characteristics to match for a donor. None of her family is close enough. She is on continuous dialysis.�

        The poor child.

        �She was diagnosed twenty months ago, a month after her sixth birthday. She�s been in and out ever since.�

        This seems to set Gen�s mind and she quickly walks strait for the door, I follow right behind her.

        �What do you want � huh? You�re not a doctor. Don�t I know you from somewhere?� I hear here say to Gen before I walk in.

        �I�m Genevieve Delarier Hudson,� Gen answers her.

        �You were Scott Hudson�s girlfriend,� Sarah cries in recognition. �Why are you here?�

        My cue.

        �Because I asked her to join me,� I say as I move in more from the door, my bodyguards and Gen�s and the guide following me in.

        �Prince William?� she asks in disbelief.

        I smile and nod. Gen giggles.

        �I knew you were coming to the hospital, but I didn�t know you were going to visit me,� she says to me.

        �It wasn�t planned,� our guide says.

        �Shut up, Steven,� Sarah says. �It�s nice to have visitors,� she adds, looking at Gen and I.

        �We�re happy to be able to,� Gen says, moving towards the bed. �What were you watching?�

        �Arthur. There is nothing good on at this time of day.�

        �Arthur isn�t that bad,� Gen says. I have no clue what they are talking about.

        �I�ve seen it three times already.�

        �That could get boring then,� Gen agrees with a laugh. �Any show that many times could get boring.�

        Gen has sat down on the edge of the bed and I move forward and put my hand lightly on her back. The two talk for a little while longer then Sarah suddenly asks, �Are you two dating?�

        �You could say that,� I answer. Gen seems to be in shock. �How did you figure that out?�

        �How close you stand to her, the way you have your hand on her back, the fact that you would normally be with the Queen, and I saw it on ET last night.�

        �What�s ET?� I ask.

        Sarah looks at me as if I�ve grown an extra head, and Gen laughs. When she calms down, Gen says, �ET is one of the leading Hollywood gossip shows.�

        �I told you,� I whisper in her ear.

        �Oh, shut up,� she laughs.

        Sarah looks at us and smiles. �You look happy together,� she says with knowledge beyond her years. �You deserve it.�

        We both look at her and then at each other. Neither of us have any clue what to say. If it had come from an older person, I likely would be able to respond, but from this child, all the responses I know hardly seem appropriate. So, I gently kiss Gen�s cheek, then Sarah�s hand and step back. The two seemed to have bonded during our short visit, and I give Gen some room.

        Sarah certainly threw us for a loop. No wonder the doctors find her bitter and cynical. They treat her like a young child, but she has matured extremely quickly. She likely has some emotional understanding that I don�t have. She isn�t as well educated in some stuff, but still...

        Wills gives Sarah a kiss on the hand and moves back. As wonderful as it is to have him at my side, I�m grateful for the space at this moment.

        �My mom was worried about you when Scott died. I saw you on the news a couple months ago for something and you still looked really sad. But now you are so happy. I hope I�ll get to see your wedding. You both need each other.�

        �How do you know this?� I ask.

        �I�m dying. They say when you�re dying you grow up faster. My parents don�t want to admit it, so I act like a kid, but I get frustrated with the way they all treat me. You aren�t like that. You�ll make him happy. He needs someone like you, that doesn�t care about anything but the character. He�s a little more demanding with what he needs, but you have it, and the strength to keep it.

        �Will you come visit me again?�

        She is still a child. A brilliant, mature child, but a child.

        �I�d love to. Next week, same time, same place?�

        �Sure. I like you.�

        �I like you too, Sarah,� I say and give her a hug. �I�ll see you at 11:30 next Wednesday.�

        She giggles and smiles and nods.

        I get up and meet everyone else outside the room. Wills smiles at me and I move in close to his side, taking strength in his touch.

        �New friend?� he asks.

        �She is so lonely.�

        �Sounds familiar.�

        �Maybe I can spread some of our happiness,� I say. �I�m coming back to visit her again next week. Maybe it�ll become a regular visit. I�ll tell you more later,� I whisper so as to not be overheard.

        We visit many more children over the next hour, but none strike at either of our hearts the same way Sarah did. We meet back up with the Queen and Phillip, and a pair of twins who were in the hospital presented all of us with a small gift. Elizabeth got a beautiful bouquet of flowers, Phillip and Wills each got a basket of local maple syrup products, and I am given an adorable little teddy bear. As the children present the bear to me, I give them each a hug in thanks, and they smile shyly. Wills takes my arm in his and, after saying goodbye, we step out of the building.

        The crowd has grown since we went in, including massive press coverage. Wills keeps a tight hold on my arm and smiles at me. Then the teens start.

        Choruses of �I love you, Will� fill our ears. Wills doesn�t smile quite as brilliantly at me, his annoyance just visible in his eyes.

        Mocking the hoards, I whisper, �I love you more, Wills.�

        This returns the smile to his face in full force and after looking at me, he laughs.

        �My heart belongs to you,� he whispers back. �Only and always you.�

        I smile at him and to keep the blush from my face laugh lightly.

        �You are a charmer,� I say. �But I�ve been warned about you Englishmen; you and your gorgeous, refined accents. They can really deceive a girl.

        �And I love it.�

        �Then I�ll seduce your ear off,� he says in a husky voice in my ear.

        This time I do blush and glare at him, or as best I can without appearing too flirtatious. Wills gives me a puppy dog look, begging for forgiveness and I tap the arm I�m holding lightly and laugh.

        �If we keep this up the cameras will have a field day,� I finally say.

        �You�re with me. They already are,� Wills says.

        We walk the last several meters in silence to the waiting limo and get in. Jon and Wills� bodyguards laugh at us as I beat on Wills with my new teddy bear for having twice embarrassed me while the cameras were flashing. Wills finally grabs the bear from me and passes it to the guys on the other side of the car.

        �My teddy!� I cry.

        �No weapons allowed,� Jon laughs.

        �Aren�t you forgetting that I don�t need physical weapons? I can get even in other ways,� I suggest as I move my hands to where I can begin to tickle Wills. Unfortunately, Wills catches on before I can carry out my threat and grabs my hands.

        �Give her the bear back,� he says. �It suits her.�

        �And what�s that supposed to mean?� I ask.

        �You have an innocence that I love. It�s very attractive,� he whispers in my ear as he gives me my bear. I cuddle it close to my chest and hide my blush as I look down at it.

        �Your face turns a beautiful shade of pink when you bush,� Wills says, raising my face to look at his. �Are you sure you don�t have noble ancestors?�

        �Who says you have to be noble to look graceful?�

        �No one. You just emanate the characteristics of nobility. The way you carried yourself today is bound to impress Gran.�

        �I hope so,� I whisper.

        �She likes you, don�t worry,� Wills comforts me, pulling me into his chest. �Jon wouldn�t be here if she didn�t.�

        We sit together for a moment, comforting the others doubts away about our obstacles when Wills� bodyguard begins to speak.

        �The palace has asked for a statement from the two of you to give to the press. And they want to speak with you, Miss Hudson.�

        �Gen,� I correct quickly. I don�t much care for that title anymore.

        �That sounds reasonable,� Wills says. �When do they want the statement?�

        �As soon as possible. This afternoon, if you could.�

        �And me?� I ask.

        �We�ll look after that later,� Jon assures me.

        Wills seems ready to protest, but decides otherwise. Then quietly says, �Look out for her, Jon.�

        Jon nods.

        I kiss Wills� cheek and smile. �I�ll be fine, don�t worry.�

        �I know, but I still will,� he answers quietly then raises my face to his for a long, comforting kiss.

        I wonder if he�ll ever learn to use tongue? It�s not that I don�t like his kisses as they are, I mean, he has wonderful lips, but there can only be so much passion without tongue, and we are pushing that border.

        Maybe it�s a good thing we�re going to be so far apart for the first bit of our relationship. We really have connected on a higher level than I�ve know. Scott and I were very close, I trusted him with everything, but there is something extra here with Wills. I don�t know if I�ll ever be able to name it.

        I love sitting here in his arms. Being surrounded, held by love is a completely unique sensation. It is enchanting.

        �We�re here, sire,� the driver pages back to us.

        I look out the tinted windows expecting to see the deli I told Wills about, but instead see that we�re at a small but ritzy restaurant that Mary and I often stop at when out shopping. I give Wills a questioning look. He offers me his hand.

        We get out of the limo and enter the elegant, colonial building. It looks very similar to the houses out at the landing, and has both the traditional dining room and private rooms. Apparently, Wills called ahead as we are seated on the balcony of a private room where our bodyguards are seated. Wills orders a home-style burger and I try not to laugh. I get a chicken caesar salad.

        �I�d heard you liked fast food, but it still seems weird,� I say when we are alone.

        �Why can�t I enjoy a burger? I�m only human too.�

        �That you enjoy a burger makes me think otherwise,� I joke. �A prince eating a burger. And not just a prince, you! It just doesn�t fit.�

        �Then you don�t know me nearly as well as I thought,� Wills says, obviously hurt.

        �I don�t know you that well, but I knew you�d enjoy it because it�s simple, normal. But with the way you carry yourself, your manner, eating a burger doesn�t fit. Especially when we�re in front of people with your grandmother,� I explain. �Even now you aren�t entirely being yourself.�

        Wills nods, agreeing with me. Forgiveness and regret in his eyes for his earlier comment, but something else, too. It arrived after my last comment. Loneliness. Oh, Wills! Someday I�ll fill that gap for you.

        �I don�t know if I can anymore,� he says. I take his hand but wait for him to continue. It is several minutes.

        �I�m forgetting who I am. There was once a time when I would put on a face only for the camera, but as I got older, I had to be more and more aware of everything. When mum died, I found myself putting a face more often then as university started it got worse. Since dad � I hardly ever am myself. I�m getting rather sick of it, but it�s like a drug. I can�t stop myself.�

        �Do you want to?�

        She asks tough questions.

        �I don�t know,� I say as I look away. That isn�t entirely true. I know that I want to be myself without being a politician or actor. But that can only be done if I let down my walls.

        �Yes you do,� Gen tells me. �You�re just not ready to go there yet.�

        �Why don�t you just say I�m afraid?� I ask.

        �You�re not. You aren�t running away from this, you know it�s there, and if you had to, you could face it, but you�d rather not. In time, you�ll be able to. I�ll help you through,� Gen explains to me. �Just like you�re helping me.�

        What does she need my... Scott. Of course! She�s put up barriers too. Only she�s more ready to take them down. She�s seen the other side and wants back there. With me.

        �I love you, Gen,� I say quietly.

        Gen was about to respond as our food arrived. She gives me a small smile and we wait patiently until we are alone again.

        �Help me be free again,� I whisper before she can speak.

        She shakes her head. �You aren�t ready yet.�

        �What would make me ready?� I feel hurt that she doesn�t have faith in me.

        �You�ll feel ready to leave the past in the past. And you�ll be able to talk to me.�

        �I already do that.�

        �Tell me about you then,� she challenges. �Wills, I love you. I can read you, but you can�t talk about the you I�m getting to know. When you are there, then I can help you, support you, but this a journey you have to make on your own. Are you ready to start?�

        �With you by my side I�m ready for anything.�

        We continue talking on less serious subjects as we eat. Just as we finish our meal, I decide to invite her.

        �Gen, I got a call from your province�s premier earlier. He suggested that I may want to bring a guest tonight,� I begin. Gen smiles shyly, yet reassuringly at me. Guess she�s figured out what I�m after. �I would be honored if you�d join me.�

        �I�d love to, Wills,� she says with a dazzling smile. �The press?�

        �There shouldn�t be too much coverage. It isn�t being well publicized.�

        �Alright. What are you wearing?�

        �Tux,� I answer. �Simple black and white, though a more modern cut.�

        A devilish smile appears on Gen�s face. �I think I need to go shopping.�

        �Why mist women collect so many clothes?�

        �The thrill of wearing something new and everyone commenting on it. It�s a rush. And you have to stay on top of style. Colors change every season. Besides my favorites, I give my old clothes away at the center, though. The girls that are the same size as me are some of the best dressed,� she giggles.

        �Glad I won�t have to worry about the size of your closet, then.�

        �Don�t be so sure. I have three closets full plus a wardrobe full of coats. I won�t even go into shoes,� there is a warped grin on her face as she says this.

        �Mom outdid you at least,� I say. She loved clothes too.

        �What time do I need to be ready?�

        �I�ll arrange to have the limo stop at your apartment on the way at around quarter to seven?� I offer.

        Gen nods. �What about tomorrow?�

        �We�re going to the museum and are to preside over the changing of the guard. Then I�m making a solo appearance in a park. I can�t ask you to join me for the changing of the guard, but if you�re available for the rest of the day, I�d like to spend the majority of my last day here with you, even if it is with the press.�

        �I wish you didn�t have to go. When will we see each other again?�

        �I don�t know. Our tour finishes in Victoria on the last Sunday in July. Maybe I�ll be able to stop over here for a week on my way back.�

        For a moment, Gen had looked extremely happy at the idea, then thought about the date and seemed less cheerful.

        �What is it, love?� I ask gently. It�s weird saying that, but it feels so right. And Gen seems to like it.

        �That�s the week I have off,� she explains. Isn�t that a good thing? �My family and the Hudsons are going out camping that week.� Now I see why she was upset. �We�ve been going together for the last three years. Even though Scott isn�t� here this year � we have to go still.

        �I wonder if you could come? Do you like tenting it?�

        I smile. �It�s been a few years, but I spent part of my gap year in South America. We had a good time trekking through the jungle.�

        �So you should have qualms with the forests of New York,� she giggles. I love the sound of that happiness.

        �I doubt it,� I agree.

        �Then I�ll talk to my parents and Jim and Mary and I�ll let you know if it�ll even work on this end. Then we can look into your side.�

        �Everything will work and we�ll get a week together, hopefully with no press.�

        �No, there won�t be any press. We�ll spend a week with just us and my family.�

        �And the three of us,� Jon says. �I�m afraid I have to cut this visit short, Will. You have to meet up with your grandparents shortly. Do you have a statement written yet?�

        I sigh. �Time flies. I hadn�t even thought about it.�

        �Could we have another ten minutes?� Gen asks.

        �I can give you five. Will, have you?� he asks cryptically.

        �Yes. Gen�s coming tonight.�

        �And we�re going shopping right away,� Gen smiles.

        Jon groans. Gen laughs. �Get used to it, Hun. I go out shopping on a regular basis.�

        I send Jon a sympathetic look. I wouldn�t mind going shopping with Gen, but I also have a deeper connection with her than bodyguard. Hopefully it won�t be too much of a chore for him. I hate shopping with my cousins.

        �I�ll let you two write that statement,� Jon says as he leaves.

        �He�s going to ask to be transferred back before I see you again,� I joke.

        �He�ll get used to it. Besides, I won�t be doing a lot of shopping this summer,� Gen smiles. �Shall we get started?�

        She pulls a notepad and pen from her purse. �I have no clue what to write,� she confesses.

        �May I?� I offer.

        Gen hands me the pad and pen and I quickly write a brief statement saying that we have found that we share a connection and though we would like to have spent more time together out of the public eye our schedules left us with very little private time on the same continent. At this time, we are not giving interviews, nor will any of Gen�s friends or family. I then ask the press to please respect Gen�s privacy as they have my own. I hand it to Gen, she reads it and nods.

        �You have nice writing,� she says.

        �Thanks. It took several months of private lessons to be deemed acceptable,� I explain.

        �What?� Gen asks in shock.

        �I have to excel in everything I do. That would be considered chicken scratches by my writing instructor. My writing is near perfect when I try.�

        �That must have been awful!�

        �Not too bad. I�ve suffered worse torments - etiquette class, for one.�

        This earns me a spiteful laugh. �I know those days. I have a feeling I�m due for some more soon, too.�

        �Don�t go upgrading for me! I like you the way you are.�

        I hope she doesn�t. I like her just like this. Cultured, yet still rustic, kind of back-woods. And relaxed. I find if you are too cultured, you become too stiff. I don�t like the hardness society demands.

        �I�ll learn enough so I don�t look like an idiot when I�m with you. I know English society isn�t going to like me, but I�ll at least play their game.�

        �I wish I could say you were wrong.�

        �It�s alright, Wills. We can deal with it when, if it becomes an issue. For now we have to say goodbye before Jon has to play the bad guy again.�

        �You are so caring, love. That will earn you some points,� I say as I get up and help Gen up into my arms. �I love you.�

        �I love you, too,� she whispers, gazing into my eyes. I return her look though it quickly becomes something more. I gently kiss her lips and pull her closer to myself. She has much more experience at this than I do, but I�m learning. I�ve heard of using tongue, and it seems very appealing with her this close, but with how little we can see each other, I know I should hold back. She gets to me enough without that memory.

        I pull away slowly and memorize every feature of Gen�s face. She is so beautiful.

        �I love you,� I whisper. �I�m going to miss this. Holding you like this, having you near me. It�s going to be a long month and a half.�

        �Don�t rush away too quickly. We still have tonight and tomorrow. When does your plane leave?�

        �Eight tomorrow night. Gran and Gramps leave at four.�

        �Then I�ll be with you right up until you go through the terminal. I�ll see you tonight, love.�

        We collect our belongings and leave the restaurant. I kiss Gen lightly and whisper �I love you� before getting into the limo without her.

        All too quickly, the black car disappears down the street and I turn to Jon.

        �Ready to shop?�

        �If that�s what you�re doing, that�s what I get to do,� he says.

        �You�re going to take all the fun out of it!� I jokingly complain. �Will you help me pick a dress or am I going to have to call up one of my girlfriends for help?�

        �I�ll see what I can do,� Jon says simply, but there is a smile in his eyes.

        �Then let�s get started.�

        I proceed to lead my poor newly acquired bodyguard around the ritzy high class shops picking out a dress, shoes and getting my hair down. Jon was somewhat relieved to get to sit down, but was more than a little uncomfortable with the conversation. He�ll get used to the girl talk soon enough. The girls at the parlor were looking for any and all details about the new men in my life.

        �So what�s the deal with Mr. Mysterious?� my normal hair dresser, Joanne, asks.

        �He�s my bodyguard.�

        �Since when do you need a bodyguard?� she asks with a touch of her native Newfie accent.

        �Since she�s dating Prince William,� Kelsey, the manicurist says from her stool.

        �What?� Joanne looks at me in shock. �Since when? You were in here less than a week ago still depressed over Scott.�

        �That was the night we started to get to know each other. We�ve seen each other as much as we could since,� I answer.

        �Ya-huh...� she prompts for more details. I just smile happily.

        �How is he?� Kelsey asks.

        �He�s very proper, but wonderfully romantic,� I answer. I know she was looking for more personally details, but I�m not giving them to anyone.

        �And...�

        �You�ve seen his picture. Use your imagination,� I say.

        �I�ve seen more than just his picture. I saw him kiss you yesterday on Extra!� Kelsey says.

        �On the cheek, with a child in my arms!� I defend.

        �Is he a good kisser?� Joanne asks.

        I just sit with a dreamy look on my face.

        �Is Mysterious taken?� Kelsey asks suddenly.

        I blink in surprise and think about it. �I don�t know,� I answer then call, �Hey Jon?�

        �Yes?�

        �Are you attached to anyone back in England?�

        �Just my niece,� he answers. �This job doesn�t leave much room for dating.�

        Kelsey looks happy then disappointed as she figures out what he means. I try not to laugh at her.

        �That must be so lonely,� Joanne says quietly.

        �We�ll have to find a girl for you,� I declare. �There is no way you should have to spend 24/7 with me. No matter how much of a celebrity I become, I�m not having you around me at all times. We�ll both wind up in an institution.�

        Jon sends me a look which I laugh at then smile reassuringly. Eventually I�ll find him someone, and hook them up, but I�ll be interesting getting him to be willing to leave me alone long enough for them to go out. And being stuck with Wills and me � he deserves something.

        The girls and I chatter on as Joanne finishes my hair. Thankfully, I was able to get them off the topic of Wills, but everything was very girlish chatter. Poor Jon.

        We leave the salon with a complete outfit in toe (and a few extras) and catch a cab back to my apartment.

        �Hey Jon,� I ask suddenly as I�m putting away everything. �Are you expected to be around me all the time, or do I get to say �see ya tomorrow�, and you leave?�

        �I�m expected to be close to you at all times. That generally means me having an apartment next to yours,� Jon explains.

        �I have a feeling that may be difficult to manage. You mind the spare room when we stay in the city? We can talk to the manager about getting any apartment in this hall if it becomes available. Finding a room at the Hudson�s shouldn�t be a problem,� I joke.

        �Do you switch between the two regularly?�

        �Not normally. I spend the school year here, holidays at my parents, and now the summer with the Hudsons. This week has just been really messed up.�

        Jon nods.

        �I keep my schedule in a day timer. It�s on the counter in the kitchen, I think,� I say. �I�m going to get dressed,� I add as I look at the clock. An hour an a half.

        Half an hour. Too long. I want to be with her now. Hell, I wanted to be with her as soon as I left. I don�t want to leave tomorrow. I just want to hold her in my arms for eternity.

        Slowly, I remove my second tux from its travel bag. It�s more modern than the last one I wore, but still has a classic look to it; a three button front with a small collar. The breast pocket is virtually hidden thanks to brilliant sewing. The shirt has a simple line to it, the buttons hidden by fabric over them, and a lower collar with just enough room for a small bow tie. I hope Gen likes it.

        I carefully dress then straiten my hair and tie in the mirror. Tugging my jacket down, I leave my room and meet everyone to go to dinner. Gran nods approvingly at my suit and we leave for the limo. On our way to the dinner, we meet up with Gen�s limo and she pulls up right behind us. I take her arm as she gets out of the car and we go into the building.

        The room is filled with older men and their wives. Thank you, Mr. Premier for letting me bring Gen. The introductions progress slowly, but Gen quietly whispers comments about the cabinet members in my ear. I had a hard time not bursting with laughter at some of them. Finally, we sit down to dinner.

        On my left is Gramps and Gen to my right. The premier sits next to Gran and his wife across from me. Some other member of his caucus sits next to Gen, and another across from her. We both make polite conversation with the politicians and their wives, but pay most attention to each other. Gen knows the couple across from her, so when we aren�t talking to each other, we generally speak with them. As the appetizers are served, I almost laugh as Gen waves the caviar on.

        �Do you not like it?� I ask her quietly, smiling.

        �I�ve been told it�s an acquired taste,� she whispers. �I�d just as soon not acquire it.�

        �You look stunning tonight. I can see why Scott liked to see you dressed up. It suits the elegant side of you.�

        �And the woodsy side?�

        �You�ve perfected that look, too.�

        We continue to talk quietly as the next course is served. On the third course, however, Gen looks over at the couple across from her and the two women start to laugh. I look at Gen, perplexed.

        �This dish was once served at a dinner party hosted by the leader of the opposition. It ended up all over his front and the front page of the paper the next day. Our dear premier enjoys showing he can keep his on his plate,� she explains.

        �Sounds like something Tony would do,� I smile. Our dear Prime Minister is known for worse things.

        Gen smiles at me and holds my hand under the table as we continue with dinner. There is the occasional advantage to being left handed. Dinner finishes and the men begin to go to the games room for brandy and to talk politics and the women to the parlor to gossip. Just as I am about to say goodbye to Gen for the night, the premier�s wife comes up to us.

        �There can�t be much of interest for the two of you surrounded by all us old folks,� she sighs. I begin to protest but she cuts me off. �I�m sure you�d rather spend time together than with us, at least.� We cautiously nod in agreement. �Why don�t you come with me, then? Your bodyguards will make suitable chaperones, though I�m sure you wouldn�t need one,� she adds with a smile.

        She leads us to another room, the guys following not far behind.

        �Have a good time,� she says to us as she leaves, hinting at something else. I smile at her, though both Gen and I know nothing will happen. The room is very ornate with a large fire place covering one wall along with many picture frames. The other walls follow with the Victorian theme and have ornate wall paper and portraits covering them. I lead Gen to the couch with its back to the door. She lets me sit down first then curls up against me.

        �Mmm,� she sighs into my chest.

        �I could stay like this forever,� I say quietly as I run my hand over Gen�s cheek. �Your premier is very considerate.�

        �He wants to keep us together,� Gen tells me. �I saw him talking with the Minister of Tourism a few minutes before his wife came to talk with us.�

        Damn. �I hate politicians.�

        Gen shifts positions and kisses me briefly. �We�re bringing money to this province. It isn�t a bad thing. We still get to spend time together.�

        �I love you.�

        �I�ll never get tired of hearing that,� she whispers. �I love you.�

        We sit in a comfortable silence for a time just enjoying each other�s presence.

        �I talked to mom and the Hudsons this afternoon. They�d love for you to join us.�

        �I�ll talk with the palace and see what can be arranged. Have you spoken with them yet?�

        �Jon wants me to call in the morning,� she explains. �It�s weird having him around. It�s going to take a lot of getting used to.�

        I hold Gen a little more tightly. �You�ll get used to him. Just make him take some time off when he gets too much. I don�t get much time away from these guys, but we all need a break from each other at times. I try to get out every few weeks without them.�

        �I think I�ll need a night off more often than that. I�m used to having the car to myself as I drive around and not having to make certain anywhere I go into is secure.�

        �Besides being claustrophobic, what do you think of Jon?�

        �We�ll get along. I feel sorry for him, though. I have a hard time keeping up with my life. Now we both have to. Though he does have good taste. I wasn�t even thinking about trying this dress on, but I love it.�

        �It looks wonderful on you,� I say before kissing her forehead. �You�re not going to fall in love with his accent?�

        �It�s the same as yours!� she condemns me. �As long as I can talk to you, you will be the only one my heart belongs to. Though I may have to learn your accent if I�ll ever fit in with your upper class.�

        �We can work on it,� I agree. �But you�ll have to have it perfect if they�ll even start to accept it, unfortunately.�

        �Then I�ll have to work hard,� she says in a pitiful attempt which I have to laugh at.

        �I promise, love, we�ll work on it,� I tell her once I stop laughing. �Though I like your Acadian accent better.�

        �How is this going to work, Wills?� Gen suddenly cries despairingly. �I don�t know how I�ll make it without you.�

        �Oh, love,� I say, resting my head on hers. �I don�t know how this will work, either. But I know I love you, and I�ll do whatever I have to in order to have you with me. I promise, I�ll call you as often as I can while we�re touring, and I�ll give you my number when I�m back in England so you can call me, too. This summer I�ll visit you, and we�ll see what else we can arrange. I promise you I�ll be here for Scott�s anniversary. We�ll get through the next few years somehow.�

        �Wills,� Gen sighs. I wait for her to continue. �Oh, God. Wills, I am so in love with you, it�s almost scary. How fast I�ve fallen is. A year ago, I would have sworn I knew all the ins and outs of love, but I know now I didn�t. I still don�t. Scott was part of me, he still is, but our love was nothing like what is growing between us. Last night on the phone, you asked me what I saw my future as. It was changing then, but now I know. All I can see is you. Being with you is all I want. I�m ready to do almost anything to be with you. I don�t want to have to be without you.�

        Wow. I don�t have a thing to say to that. My beautiful, stunning girlfriend just confessed her true feelings; putting the love we have higher than the one she shared with her boyfriend of three years. Gently, I turn her in my arms and kiss her. She had been close to tears when she finished speaking and takes a minute to relax into the kiss. Slowly, I deepen it, letting the love and desire she stirs in me to show. Though I know I shouldn�t, and had promised myself to restrain, I slowly run my tongue along her lips, slipping it between them as they part. She seems pleased that I initiated the deeper kiss as her own tongue explores mine and my mouth. I follow her lead, but quickly get an understanding of what Gen desires. Passion builds between us as we learn the others pleasure points. The feeling of Gen being so close is unbelievable. She presses her body closer to mine, but we both want to be closer. Gen lies back on the couch and I follow her, lying over top of my princess, continuing to kiss her. Slowly I ease my weight partly onto her apparently delicate body and she rises to meet me.

        A sudden jolt of electricity flows through me as our hips make contact bringing me crashing back to reality.

        �Fuck,� I mutter as I stop kissing Gen and begin to move away.

        �Wills,� Gen gently pleads as I walk over to the fireplace.

        I don�t answer for a few minutes as I regain my composure. Gen walks over to me, uncertain herself. I hold her lightly, just enough to let her know that I�m not upset with her and comfort myself that she isn�t mad at me.

        �Gen.�

        �It�s alright, love,� she comforts. �Thank you.�

        �For what?� I ask, confused.

        �For loving me the way you do. For going against everything you�ve been taught to comfort me. For showing me I can still arouse a man�s passion.�

        God. �Don�t go there, love. I can�t do that yet. It may be a long time before I can.

        �I�m sor-�

        �Don�t say it. Don�t ever apologize to me for what you�re not read for. It took me a long time before I was. I�m happy just being in your arms. I love you, Wills. That�s all there is to it.�

        �I love you Gen. But I still feel I owe you an explanation,� I say as I lead her to another couch in the room. The one we were on holds too much passion.

        �You don�t owe me anything, Wills. And I don�t want you to ever feel like you do. Only ever do something if you want to. Besides, we needed to stop. We are hardly in an appropriate location for a make out session.�

        I smile and lightly kiss her forehead. �Agreed. We need to watch what and where we do anything. We�re here by sheer luck as it is. You could have been in the other room surrounded by all those old women, talking with Gran.� Gen looks up at me, distressed.

        �It�s alright love. I didn�t know we�d be splitting or I would have spoken with you about it. But we�re here instead.

        �God, Gen. How, what am I doing? I don�t know what I�m doing when it comes to you. It�s like everything I�ve ever been taught has simply flown right out the window. I just want you near me, but I feel, I don�t know.

        �I love you with such a passion that it scares me. I don�t have any idea what you need form me, and I�m afraid that I won�t be able to give it to you. I don�t want to loose you.�

        Gen hugs me comfortingly. �You won�t lose me, Wills. I love you, which means I�ll wait for you. I still have two more years of school, so we won�t even be on the same side of the ocean most of the time. And you have the time you have to put in the military. We�ll be busy. By the time I can even move to England, or wherever you�re stationed, you�ll want to go further than you think. Don�t worry about losing me, love. Having your love and support is all I want. You�re all I need.�

        �Will I have more control of myself by then? I lose control around you. All I care about is you, even at functions like this. Gen, as much as I love you, if I can�t keep my wits about me...� I let my concern hang. If I don�t get better at this I won�t be able to have Gen around.

        �From what I�ve seen it gets better. You�ll adjust to it as we spend more time together. And you still have control with me around. My friends would still find you stiff if you acted like you did tonight around them. But that�s society for you,� Gen giggles into my chest.

        �Do you find me �stiff�?� I ask, concerned.

        �No!� she protests. �At least not for where we�re at. If you acted any differently, I�d be concerned. Though I�ll warn you, excessive manners in private wear on a girl. Unless you�re always the perfect gentleman, don�t try them on me.�

        �Better warn Jon, too,� Wills laughs. �I�m afraid we English tend to be well mannered. Opening doors, letting the lady go first, it�s what we tend to do when in the company of ladies.�

        �I�m hardly a lady,� I explain.

        Wills laughs. �You could have fooled me. You certainly play the part well.�

        Sigh. This hurts. I don�t want to burst any images he has of his dream girl, but if for me to fit that mold would be impossible if he is expecting a lady.

        �Playing a part is all I�m doing, though,� I say quietly. �I�m really nothing more than a simple country girl.�

        �Then you�ll enjoy holidays at Balmoral,� Wills jokes. �I know you prefer to be in the country, Gen. I�m the same way. Letting your hair down and enjoying the open is much more comfortable. But when it comes down to it, you are every bit as regal as I am. You respect your elders, show confidence in what you do, and are well mannered. Those aren�t traits that are easily taught. You are a natural lady. A natural princess,� he adds with a kiss.

        Princess. God, this is scary. I wonder if I�ll ever be comfortable with the idea. And not just Princess. Queen. Wills will be King one day, and will want me as his wife. I�ll do it � for him.

        �I love you, Wills,� I say quietly into his chest.

        �I love you, Gen. I wish you didn�t have to be something you�re not.�

        �I wish no one had to. But it�s reality. You like this less than I do, I bet.�

        �But that�s what I�ve been raised to do. You�ve been thrown into it.�

        I give a half hearted laugh. �The two guys I�ve gotten serious with are both part of this circle. There are those who would say that I�m only into powerful men.�

        �But you just want someone who�ll love you. And maybe look after you. If you�ll excuse me for saying it, you want a guy who will lead you. You are a strong character, but want � need � someone you don�t have to use that power with. A way for you to re-fuel your energy.�

        �Yep. You�ve got me. But you have that same power. Maybe more than I do. Being a leading is exhausting. A strong mate is something that is necessary in our lives. For you even more.�

        �As long as I have you I won�t have to worry. I have all I need.�

        �I hope so,� I say quietly.

        Wills looks down sharply at me. �Don�t doubt yourself, or us, love,� he comforts gently. �You are all I want � need. One day I�ll have you with me all the time and I�ll show you how good you are. You are extremely supportive of me, loving me, and caring about me. I hope I can return the favor. I n this world love only goes so far, but your actions peak volumes. I love you, Gen.�

        I don�t know how I can find men like Scott and Wills, but I am so grateful I�ve been given this chance. When I lost Scott, I never thought I would find someone who could compare with him. Wills is quite different from him, but is just as special to me. He isn�t as sure as Scott was, but I don�t think he�s had as much experience with girlfriends. He certainly learns quickly. I wonder if he�s gotten much guidance from his grandfather? He seems pleased with the idea of me dating his grandson. I can�t tell a thing from Elizabeth, though Wills seems to think she likes me.

        We sit in a relaxed silence for a time until the clock on the mantle chimes half past ten.

        �We probably should make an appearance,� I say, but make no motion to act.

        �Probably,� Wills agrees, also making no move.

        �Won�t you get chewed out for not being there � for me not being there to talk with your grandmother?�

        �Probably,� he agrees as he runs his hands over my arms.

        �Why are you so unconcerned about all this?�

        �Gran wants to know that I�ve found a good woman to marry. I won�t lie to you � she had you investigated, she�s had info on you since the morning we went out riding. She�s good at figuring people out and seems happy with you. Everyone wants me to be happy. This is where I�m happiest. Besides, if we showed up now, it would cause more scandal than if we just stayed here. You�ll talk with Gran sooner or later.�

        �Why do I feel like I�m being set up for a job interview?�

        �Because you are,� a new voice says from the door. I feel Wills tense slightly behind me and I turn in his embrace from facing the fireplace to look at the door.

        �Prince Phillip,� I say with a start as I scramble to rise.

        �Relax, child,� he says, quietly. �If you can sit so comfortably in the arms of the crown prince you needn�t bother with such irritancies as rising when I enter the room when you�re the only ones in it.�

        I sit back down on the couch, though no longer in the same position of leaning against Wills� chest between his legs. Wills now sits beside me with his arm around my waist.

        �To what do we owe this surprise?� Wills asks.

        �I wanted you to know we would be staying here for another hour, and perhaps get a chance to speak with you, Miss Hudson.�

        �Please, just call me Gen,� I say softly. I really do feel like I�m in a job interview. �Are you good enough to date our grandson � possibly be his Queen?�

        �You needn�t be shy around me, dear. I have no interest in ending any of your happiness. I would appreciate a chance to get to know you, though.�

        �Join us, then, granddad,� Wills offers, waving to the couch opposite us. Phillip accepts the invitation and sits down. �Do you mind explaining your comment as you entered?� Wills asks as he holds me a little tighter.

        �You both know what I meant,� Phillip answers. �When you date anyone, especially if the public knows about it, your girlfriend is being evaluated for her potential to become queen, Wills. And you, Genevieve, are fitting into the role very well. You adapt quickly. From what I�ve seen of you, you will take on the challenge very well. But I would like to get to know you.�

        Good grief! Is there anyone who doesn�t� look so far into the future to see me marrying Wills? Then again, I can see me marrying him. I want to marry him.

        �There isn�t much about me which you probably haven�t already found out. I�m from a simple, French family, grew up in the country, and started dating the son of an influential Englishman in high school. We were very in love but eight months ago, he died in a riding accident. Wills is the cause of my moving on with living.�

        It seems like a lifetime ago. Life before Wills. There certainly wasn�t much to it since Scott. Wills brought me back. I owe him so much, but that isn�t close to why I�m with him. As grateful as I am to Wills I don�t feel I need to give him anything in return for his gifts. All he needs is my love, and that�s all I need to give.

        �You�ve done the same for me,� Wills whispers in my ear.

        Phillip smiles at us and the intimate gestures we share. I wonder if he�ll be reminding Wills about his position, or leave it to his bodyguards. Pour Jon will probably have to talk to me about it. One must love these situations when you first get serious.

        �I heard you�re responsible for a summer riding camp,� Phillip leads the conversation, noticeably away from any common ground between Wills and I. �You must really enjoy riding.�

        �Very much. I have a small mare who the Hudsons keep. She and I have explored quite a bit of the forest. The woods are a part of us, you could say. For as long as I can remember I�ve been at home in them. Star and I are out very often.�

        �Do you hunt, then?� Phillip asks.

        �I�ve been out with some of the men from my neighborhood a couple of times, but I don�t have the patience to sit that long, and they won�t track,� I answer.

        �How do you track on a horse?� Wills asks.

        I laugh.

        �You don�t,� I explain. Oops. �I�m sorry, this is my mistake. Out here, hunting generally implies going out into the woods with a .44 and getting a duck, rabbit, or if your real lucky, a deer or some other big game.�

        �But you don�t have any problem with the hunt?� Phillip inquires.

        �There isn�t much point to most hunting, but I don�t have any concerns with it as long as it doesn�t upset the ecosystem. When it�s in excess then it should become a concern to everyone.�

        �I agree,� Wills says. �Back home they raise animals to release for that entire purpose, so we don�t disturb the wildlife.�

        �Would you feel comfortable going out, then?� Phillip inquires.

        �It would all depend on whether the others going would feel comfortable with me there. The hunt is normally only taken part in by nobility, is it not?� Phillip inclines his head slightly, neither confirming nor denying my statement but urging me to continue. �I�m afraid my only link to a title is Wills. I can trace my family lines back to Revolutionary France. There are many who would not want French peasantry riding next to them. I would rather not cause more of a rift between the upper class and Wills than necessary.�

        Phillip smiles and nods with approval.

        �You certainly know how to keep the peace. Thank you for your time, my dear. I certainly hope to see you again soon,� Phillip says as he stands to leave, accenting his words with a kiss to my hand.

        Finally, he leaves.

        Wills relaxes back into the couch and I follow, leaning into him.

        �That was-� I pause, trying to find the right word, �interesting.�

        Wills nods in agreement, running his hand through y hair. �You can say that again. But you did everything perfectly.�

        �I thought he meant something completely different by hunting.�

        �That is what hunting is to you. You still have these beautiful forests to hunt in. I�m afraid all we have are the odd grove left. You recovered beautifully, and answered very diplomatically. Were you saying how you really feel, though?�

        �We both know that a lot depends on how I�m received by your nobles. If it didn�t cause too much fuss and you want me to join you, I�ll go.�

        �Do you want to go?� Wills questions.

        �I don�t know enough about it to say one way or the other. But if it means more time with you, definitely.�

        �Only if you enjoy it,� Wills says with a kiss. �I may just not go if I have to choose between your obliging presence and your happiness.�

        �We�ll just have to see, then. It must be more interesting than hunting at least. You are on a horse.�

        Wills laughs at me and I sense him relaxing further.

        �Why must the world be so large? It keeps us so distant, when all I want is to be near you,� I sigh.

        �I�ll never be far where it counts. You�ll always be close to my heart, and on my mind, even if you aren�t near me,� he swears, playing with my hair.

        �And you will stay with me,� I whisper.

        �Wills, what do you think you�ll be doing when you leave?�

        �Probably the same sort of things I�ve been doing here. It�s exhaustingly dull. I�m not too fond of touring.�

        �I would think it would be interesting,� I say. �I would like to get to know more about my country. I probably know more about basic world politics and war-time Europe than about Canada. But it�s not like there�s much to know.�

        Wills nods. �You live in a relatively peaceful country. Even with fighting going on around you, you manage to stay under the radar. There hasn�t been much news worthy of the history books lately.�

        �We just hid in the States� shadow. It�s relatively safe there.�

        �That is an interesting nation. They are continuously re-defining their foreign policy and shifting their views fairly rapidly. For having been known to Europeans for five hundred years they certainly have a lot of white history.�

        �The history before is more interesting. I wish we weren�t as ignorant of the natives� culture when we started to settle this land. So much was lost.�

        �We are still learning,� Wills states. I lean in to him in agreement.

        �We preach humility and understanding but don�t follow our own instructions,� he adds.

        I don�t respond for several minutes; even as I do, it�s on a slightly different topic.

        �You�ve spent time in the third world, haven�t you? What did you do?�

        �During my gap year I went some time in South America with a volunteer group where we worked to help improve their place in life; housing, food, education. But even then we were instilling western culture on them.�

        �I wonder if we would ever be satisfied if, as they develop, it wasn�t like how we did � to what we�ve become. If the people chose to keep their tribal ways I don�t know if we would believe they were over the poverty line.�

        �We are very self righteous, aren�t we?�

        �In humility comes greatness.�

        Wills tightens his hand around my waist for a moment in agreement then moves to face me.

        �You are amazing, you know that? I don�t know how I�ll be able to make it though this next month away from you, knowing that I�m on the same continent, in the same country.�

        To keep from crying, I laugh gently. �By the time you�re in Vancouver, we�d be closer if you were in England.�

        Wills smiles at me and hold my hand gently, reassuringly. �We�ll manage, somehow,� he promises. �I�ll be back here as fast as I can and we�ll have real time together.�

        �Just you, me, my family, the guys, a couple of tents, and the bugs.�

        �I�d rather it was just us and the bugs/�

        �No, I�d take everything else and a grizzly before the bugs,� I laugh. �Maybe we�ll go into New York for a day.�

        �Only if no one knows we�re coming. I�d hate for our day to be ruined by snap-happy tourists and journalists.�

        �You�re too pessimistic when it comes to cameras, Wills,� I chastise. �I know you don�t like them, but you have to get past it, and just let them flash. Give them limits, but let them in a bit.�

        �You�d be surprised,� Wills says sarcastically. �People can be very rude and intrusive.�

        I gently kiss his nose. �They only seem rude if you let it get to you. You�re a somebody. Us nobodies like to say they�ve met a somebody.�

        �You�re a somebody too, now,� Wills returns.

        �So far it isn�t too bad. The neighbors are very interested in my love life very suddenly, though.�

        Wills laughs a rich baritone laugh. It is so rugged and sexy. But then, everything about him is. He is an unbelievable sportsman from what I�ve been told, but I know hardly anything about his culture; about what he thinks.

        �Does that bother you, love?�

        �Not in the least. I�m just as interested in theirs when something develops.�

        Again, that beautiful laugh. I�ve forgotten how wonderful it is to simply feel needed by a man.

        �You are one in a million.�

        I laugh. �I should hope the odds are better than that. Say, one in five million. I like to be an original!�

        �You are that, love. And you are the only one who has my heart, which makes you an even rarer find.�

        I smile delicately. �I certainly consider myself lucky to have been found by you.�

        Gazing down into her beautiful face I feels o close to her, as if something were pulling us together. Her beautiful smile enchants me, and I feel as though I�m swimming in her dazzling bleu eyes. To think that just days ago those love-filled pools were sorrow-filled plains of ice. And I am the cause of her happiness.

        And she is mine. I don�t know what was done for this sudden change in both our lives to occur, but I am so grateful He allowed it. Please, let us be together as long as Gran and Granddad. Let us be happy.

        The remainder of our hour disappears all too quickly between our kisses and flirtations. The guards discretely knock on the door, giving us a warning that my grandparents were preparing to leave. Regretfully, I begin to rise from the couch, lifting Gen with me.

        �It�s time to join the world again, isn�t it?� Gen sighs.

        I chuckle and lightly kiss her. �Unfortunately. We should be in the hall as Gran and Granddad leave.�

        Gen looks longingly back at the couch and leans into me. �Let�s go.�

        I kiss her a final time and we leave the room for the deserted hallway, the only signs of life are the three bodyguards seated outside our door. Quickly, however, the hall is filled with politicians as Gran and Granddad prepare to leave. We are sent off in the traditional grandness and invited to return as soon as possible. Gen on my arm, I follow Gran out and into a limo � thankfully not the same one as hers. She did give me a frightening look on our way out.

        Once we are in the limo away from everyone else, Gen whispers, �I�m really starting to dread meeting your grandmother.�

        �Don�t worry, love,� I comfort. �She looks much more vicious than she is. Just as you guessed, Gran isn�t too pleased I spent all this night with you, but she�ll get over it. We needed this time more than she needs an interview with you.�

        I hold her close and she smiles up at me. �We can�t keep putting this off, though.�

        �I know,� I answer with all my reservations evident in my voice.

        �Will you quit protecting me!� Gen chastises.

        I feign hurt, �That�s what you signed up for when you agreed to be my girlfriend.�

        Gen quickly moves to change my interpretation of her comment, but the look of love in both our eyes stops any argument as we share a gentle kiss.

        �Mon protecteur, mein schutz. Je t�aime,� Gen whispers. �But don�t smother me!�

        I laugh and kiss her. �I didn�t know you knew German.�

        �It was the only other language they taught at my high school besides French. My teacher had a hard time getting me to have the correct accent, but I picked the rest up fairly quickly.�

        �And you want me to teach you an English accent?�

        �How else will I fit in? Besides, I insist on having the accent perfect, my teacher was happy with some of my first attempts � once I got the French out.�

        �I guess I get tot get the Acadian out,� I sigh. �I prefer it though.�

        �Can ya stand the full out, eh?� Gen asks in a very thick accent.

        �What?� I ask with a laugh.

        Laughing herself, Gen says normally, �You can�t even understand me when I speak Acadian. And I�m not that good at doing the thick tongue.�

        �Would you understand me if I took a harbor accent?�

        �Not too likely, but I�d do my best,� Gen agrees. �I don�t want to say goodbye yet,� she adds as we pull up in front of her building.

        �Nor do I. I enjoy the time I have with you too much.�

        �I wish I could invite you up, but your grandmother...�

        �I don�t care about her. You shouldn�t worry either.� Gen gives me a questioning look, but I reassure her by tightening the arm I have around her waist.

        �Would you like to come up, then?�

        �I�d love to,� I say with a kiss. We both get up and Gen leads us to her apartment. My bodyguard begins to protest as I left the car but obligingly follows as I repeat that I don�t care. Thankfully, no photographers are in the area.

        Gen�s apartment is elegantly decorated, definitely reflecting her feminine side. It�s very cozy, yet still young. She must have some good parties here. I compliment her on the design, and she smiles, crediting the interior decorator for the work. She then offers us all something to drink then excuses herself to change out of her dress, explaining, �You get to wear pants, and way fewer layers. These things are very stuffy, and irritating after a while.�

        As she left, my bodyguard gave me a look distinctly saying that nothing had better happen tonight. We are dead as it is.

        �I�m going to call Jack. Hopefully he will be able to keep your grandmother from killing us,� he says as he walks away.

        �Are you going to express your disappointment as well?� I ask Jon.

        �Not at all. She loves you, and you her. As long as you are awake enough tomorrow that this late night doesn�t show, I don�t see why you can�t spend some time with your girlfriend. Just don�t let it affect you in your princely duties.�

        �Thanks.�

        �Not at all. Besides, when you leave it�ll be easier if you�ve spent more time together. Less regrets that way.�

        �Look after her for me, Jon, please. I don�t want her to get hurt by all this, but if she is, don�t let her keep it to herself.�

        �There are enough obstacles in love, I�ll do what I can to keep that crown of yours form adding more on this end. You can�t let it put too many up on your end either. Gen would skin you alive.�

        �Don�t I know it. She�s got an amazing ability to read me. She knows when I�m hiding something, everything. But the weirdest part is I can do the same with her.�

        �You have a great connection, that�s certain,� Jon says as Gen emerges from her room. �I�ll watch out for her. Enjoy your night,� he taunts as he walks away so Gen and I can be alone.

        She has changed into a much more comfortable looking pair of tan kakis and a wine tank top; a very attractive combination.

        �You look much more relaxed,� I whisper, taking her in my arms.

        �This is definitely more comfortable,� she sighs, leaning against my chest. �Why do you still have this thing on?� she refers to you jacket as she begins to unbutton it.

        �Gen,� I protest weakly. I�d just as soon be free of the confines of the suit.

        She smiles reassuringly at me. �It�s not fair for me to be in these clothes while you�re in a tux,� she explains as she finishes unbuttoning my jacket then undoes my bowtie once I surrender. Setting them on the back of a kitchen chair, Gen leads me through the living room onto the balcony where I am shocked at the sight of a small chesterfield with a tarp over it � though Gen quickly removes that.

        Recovering from my shock quickly, I laugh at the sight.

        �What?� Gen asks, like there was nothing odd about the image before me.

        �Why?� I begin to ask.

        �Would you rather sit in uncomfortable lawn furniture?�

        �I suppose not, but ��

        �It�s different, I know, but I like it.�

        �So do I,� I pull her down onto the chesterfield with me. Kissing her deeply, I smile contently. �I really like it.�

        Gen returns my kisses, urging me to lead with her restraint. I pick up quickly, pulling her closer to myself, deepening the embrace � the connection � further as I ease my tongue between her lips. The slow pace we started at quickly dissolves as passion builds. Soon neither of us has to take the initiative as we work as one, drawing closer as we divine the other�s desires. For the second time this night, all I know of the world is the stunning petite in my arms. Now, much to my chagrin, Gen begins to lessen her return of my kisses. I relent, slightly, ceasing my administrations to �come up for air�. However, gazing down into her passion filled eyes I nearly forget myself and return to kissing her breathless. Nearly.

        �I love you, my beautiful princess,� I whisper, inches from her lips.

        �And I you, my handsome prince. I fear I may begin to search the papers fro your picture so I can simply see your face.�

        �I�ll have to visit you as often as I can then, so I don�t become some two dimensional impression to you.�

        �You�ll never be 2-D to me. Especially not after what you�ve shown me tonight,� she adds with a provocative smile as she rubs her pelvis against my own.

        I groan. �Gen!�

        �Yes love?� she feigns innocence.

        �You know what. Please, love ��

        �Sh,� she promises. �I won�t. You don�t have to keep this side of yourself all locked up, though. When you are ready we�ll have some more fun.�

        When I�m ready. The way she talks...

        �How close were you with Scott?�

        Gen is taken by surprise.

        �We had been dating for three years, and he had a ring in his pocket,� she dodges. �Very. We could write a book on how to be intimate without being intimate.�

        �I must seem like a regular oaf ��

        �No!� she protests quickly. �You are really quite amazing, love. Scott wouldn�t know me by my actions were he you. I was skittish as a newborn kitten whenever he wanted to try something new. I was terrified that one thing would cause a chain reaction and things would go too far. But with time, I became used to the way tings were and adapted to change, and we became closer. You are so much more adventurous than I was. Some day a friend will put some kinky idea in your head and you�ll actually consider trying it. One day, you probably will.�

        I smile at her encouragements. �Knowing my friends, anything they suggest will have to wait until after we stand on the balcony of Buckingham.�

        This earns me a smile plainly saying she can�t wait.

        �Why are the fates so cruel as to give me a woman ready to play, yet forbid me from indulging?�

        �If you weren�t forbidden I wouldn�t� be nearly as playful,� Gen taunts, running her hands through my hair, pulling my lips to hers.

        �You are a little seductress,� I laugh, kissing her back.

        �Only for you. You and only you,� she says between kisses.

        Again, the passion builds between us, Gen letting me move as slowly as I please. I hold her close to me with one arm; the other had leisurely exploring her back, sides, stomach, almost everything there is to discover. Gen gently encourages me with quiet moans and the movements of her own hands. Just as I find myself reaching a point where I�d explored all I could I hear Gen�s voice from earlier this night, �Only do something if you want to.� God, I want to. And why not?

        Oh, God! �Wills,� I half moan, half exclaim at the feeling of his hand on my breast. Here I thought I was being bold with him. It feels so good to be held so lovingly, and my love is a natural. Wills seems slightly uncertain of himself, so again I moan as he massages me. �Don�t stop, love. Please,� I beg. Wills deepens the kiss.

        Let this moment never end. If I could have anything at this time, it would be we never have to leave this moment. I hope Wills doesn�t regret this. Better not let him get too carried away. Don�t want any pictures of HRH groping his girlfriend hitting the press.

        It feels so good.

        �Wills,� I whisper. He doesn�t seem to notice. Damn testosterone. �Wills,� I say again with a little more force, �I love this,� he kisses me � why does he have to make this so difficult ��We have to stop.� More kisses, though he begins to back off. My body aches to have him back.

        �I know,� he whispers, still kissing me. I allow him to raise us to a seated position, me kneeling over his lap. If this doesn�t stop soon we�re going to have to go in.

        Wills starts to kiss along my jaw and down my neck. In my already aroused state, I simply sigh with delight, tilting my head back, giving him better access to the hyper-sensitive flesh under my chin.

        �You�re distracting me,� I state.

        �I know,� he says covering me in kisses.

        �William!� I manage to protest.

        Finally, he stops. �I yield,� he whispers, it�s barely audible. Then slightly louder, and much more huskily, �I love you.�

        God. Two words. The most powerful words he could ever say. His passionate �I love you pales in comparison to William�s �I yield�. It wasn�t Wills who said it, but William. I�m starting to see the difference. Rather, he�s letting me, giving me so much of himself. Showing a side that very few ever get to see.

        �I can never explain how much that means to hear, William,� I whisper. �I love every single part of you, Wills.�

        Wills smiles lovingly at me, noting that I can see the difference between the royal and the man. �The prince may belong to God and country, but I belong to you,� he promises.

        �That is all I could ask for,� I whisper.

        �I wish I could give you more ��

        �Sh,� I interrupt. �England may have your days, and one day possibly mine, but the nights are ours.�

        �And when I have to go on a world tour?�

        �You�ll call me as much as you can � if I�m not with you.�

        �I hope the people will be happy with you, because I don�t think I�ll let them chose any differently,� Wills whispers. �I guess we�ll find out soon. The first of the poles should be in by night.�

        �They certainly move fast,� I say in amazement. Bracing myself, I ask, �Worst case?�

        Wills looks away.

        �Tell me,� I plead.

        �Worst case?� he looks at me then away, unable to say the next words while looking at me. �They see you as a want-to-be; a peasant French girl from the colonies with no right...� he can�t finish.

        I nod, unable to speak.

        �That is the worst case, though, love. The absolute worst. More likely they will be unsure of the stunning mademoiselle with the recently deceased boyfriend who brought her into my world. �Though she has shown a kind, compassionate side, a charity worker, how dedicated is she to our prince?� they�ll ask. And I know the answer, and in time, they will. Eventually, they will love you as they love me, and I�m so sorry for it.�

        �So am I, because all the worry you put towards that takes away from your love of your people, your family, and me.�

        Wills looks at me in shock. His eyes questioning, reflecting his internal battle. I allow him to muse, recalling how not long ago Sandy had a similar conversation with me at the center one afternoon. After Scott died, the Hudsons and I received a huge amount of press coverage. I was terribly depressed over my loss, and the publicity just seemed to rub it in, and I was becoming bitter. Sandy and I were out playing with the children, very half-heartedly on my part, when she confronted me using similar words to what I just did with Wills. I rapidly snapped out of the bitterness, letting the press in as long as they respected my limits.

        I doubt it will be as easy for Wills. They are much more intrusive with him, and can be viewed as part of the cause of his mother�s death.

        �You�re right,� he whispers, standing up and resting his arms on the balcony rail. I remain on the couch, giving him the space he needs.

        �They terrify me, Gen,� he says quietly. �Spiders, heights, and flying I don�t blink an eye at. Public speaking is a snap, but the press... The press. Oh, they have the power to destroy something you have spent years creating in seconds. They killed mom years before she died, and I guess you could say they are slowly taking care of Harry and I as well. But it�s time I change that � past time. �Nothing is either good or bad, but thinking makes it so�, as Shakespeare said. It�s time I stopped thinking of the press as bad,� he states firmly, turning to me. �I just wish I knew how.�

        I immediately take my cue and stand, wrapping my arms around his waist.

        �You simply have to make yourself believe that it�s okay to be in front of the camera. Every time you notice that you are hating the situation, think of how much I adore the way you deal with them, and that gorgeous smile,� which he just happens to flash at that moment. �You don�t play fair,� I add, running my hands up his chest preparing to pull his head to mine.

        �Who said love is fair?� he answers, kissing me before I had gotten to his neck.

        It is a gentle kiss this time. Showing all the love we feel for each other, yet involving no tongue, or anything else. It is simply an intimate connection of mind though lips, and perhaps the most powerful thing we could ever share.

        �I love you, Gen,� my handsome Englishman whispers, his hands resting on the small of my back. I gaze up into his gorgeous blue eyes and smile at the love and happiness shining there.

        �I love you,� I answer.

        We simply enjoy the moment, both knowing that this is going to be goodbye. All too rapidly, Jon is opening the balcony door and Wills is leading me in. As he puts on his jacket, I tie his bow-tie.

        �It�s been a while since I�ve done this,� I confess, my fingers nimbly working the strip of fabric.

        �You seem to know what you�re doing, love,� Wills says, trying to inspect my work, bending his head.

        I laugh. �Keep your chin up! I may be a lot shorter, but it still gets in the way!�

        Wills also laugh, sticking his chin high up, �Is this good enough?�

        I quickly finish tying it and pull his head down. �That�s too far away,� lowering his head to mine I whisper, �This is where I like it much better.�

        Wills quickly kisses me with the wonderful perfection he is.

        �I agree. I like this much better.�

        We kiss once more then part as he goes to the door and we say goodbye for the night. Wills promises that he�ll be by in the morning to pick me up. As I close the door behind Wills and his bodyguards, I sigh and lean against it. Jon smiles at me.

        �Did you have a good night?� he asks.

        �Unbelievable,� I answer, with a devilish smile I add, �He is the most wonderful kisser.�

        �I don�t think I want details,� Jon laughs. �Did you get him to relax?�

        �I�m starting to. Have you spent much time with him?�

        �I was one of his father�s bodyguards.�

        �Oh, Jon,� I whisper.

        �It�s alright. There are very few who knew, but Charles had been having problems for a while before his death. He kept it very well hidden � I only knew because I was always there. He never told the boys, they only found out after the first attack. The public after the second.�

        �And the third took him. No wonder Wills is so reserved.�

        �You�re the first person I�ve seen him open up to since his father. He makes sure Harry talks to him, but won�t tell him much.�

        �He doesn�t seem used to spilling his guts,� I agree, smiling, �I�m doing what I can to coax it out of him. You men have a universal flaw � you won�t talk to each other.�

        �Yes, well, what can you do?� Jon laughed. I smile connivingly. �I don�t want to know.�

        �I wasn�t about to tell,� I joke. �I�m going to bed. It�s gong to be a long day.�