A Royal Surprise

by Nichole Blithe

  “Who will you pick? Hot and exciting or handsome and reliable?” She grabs a stack of newspapers bringing them over to help wrap photos.

  “There’s no picking. I have bigger worries than two dukes who act like toddlers when they are in the same room.”

  “Two dukes are into you. It sounds like you need to pick to me.” I take the wrapped photo she’s waving in my face to place in the box.

  “It’s not like that. Change the subject please.” The last part comes out through gritted teeth. I really don’t want to be annoyed with her right now, I don’t know when we will get to see each other again.

  “Have you seen your mom yet?”

  Nope that’s worse. Mom and I have never been this strained before. I’m not ready to deal with it or see her, but I’m here and it has to happen.

  “Never mind. I want to talk about Quinn and Cristian again.”

  “It will be fine. She’s your mom. I know we say all the time how cold and closed off she is, but she does love you. Look at everything she did for you.”

  “Yeah but that’s kind of the point, look at what she turned herself into. Nothing had to be the way it was. After everything I feel like she’s practically a stranger. I know she’s still upset with my choice to live in Messalina.” Tonight, we’re having dinner and it’s my first time to see her since I left. Awkward dinners with my mom, some things never change even if you find out you’re royalty.

  “It is your decision. She’ll get over it or she won’t. Don’t let it ruin your happiness. I’ve never seen you like this.”

  “I’ve never felt like this. I’m making a difference in people’s lives. Nothing has ever been so important.” I’ve always done what I could to volunteer and help people, but this is so much bigger than clothing drives and soup kitchens. It’s something I never could have dreamed I could do.

  “Oh my God. You aren’t going to believe this.” I look over to see her mouth gaping, staring at the newspaper in her hand.

  “What it is?”

  She hands me the sheet of newspaper she was about to wrap my high school graduation photo in. There is a picture of me and my ex-boyfriend Xavier, with the caption A Princess in Philadelphia- The Tragic Love Story.

  The country of Messalina is a tiny monarchy on a small island off the southern coast of Italy, roughly double the size of our city. If you’ve never heard of it, you aren’t alone. Home to just a hundred thousand people, living under the reign of King Alexander Dunsany, the once happy little island has been hit with tragedy. The king’s wife died recently leaving him without an heir and the country in a state of uncertainty of who will be the next ruler.

  Enter Philadelphia native Adellaide Bowes. Our source says she is the daughter to the king of this small country and in line to be the next monarch. In her time since leaving our city and traveling to the small country she has changed, become something else. Her only concerns for herself and her new title. The once sweet girl who organized food drives for the needy and volunteered at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia can’t be the same girl we have been told about. Was it all an act? Keeping her identity a secret with a big masterplan, making cold and calculated moves.

  Ex-boyfriend Xavier (name) says she kept her identity a secret from even him. “She broke my heart when she left. I thought she was the one, we were each other’s first you know. That’s something really special. It bonds us. We have a connection, or I thought we did. I traveled all the way to Europe to see her, to win her back. She treated me like a peasant, it was horrible.”

  How can one of our own be so cruel? Does power really change you that quickly? Philanthropist to tyrannical princess is a far way to fall.

  “This is outrageous! Can he just tell everyone my business like that? Most of it isn’t true. He broke up with me. Said I was ‘too boring for him.’” My body flushes as I pace around the room, voice rising higher and higher as I become more agitated. He most certainly wasn’t a virgin when we started dating, but I was. How embarrassing to have that printed for anyone to read. “He came to another country, months after he broke up with me, my dad had to have him escorted out of the country. He’s delusional. We don’t have any special anything between us. Wendell?” I call out, barely containing my anxiety. I have no idea how to approach this or what my dad will think of me. What if my mom reads it and wants to discuss it over dinner?

  “Yes ma’am.” He steps into the room as if he was poised outside, likely he heard my yelling and came to investigate.

  “Can you get in touch with my father? I have a serious problem and I’m not sure what to do.” I hand him the newspaper and he looks over the article while simultaneously tapping on his phone, within thirty seconds his phone buzzes several times in succession.

  “Don’t worry. I’ve sent your father a link to the online article he’ll be in contact shortly.”

  “Come on Adella lets go sit, we can finish packing later.” Seneca walks with me to the living room and guides me to the couch leaving me to walk to the kitchen and brings me back a bottle of water. Wendell is speaking in short clipped responses in the hallway.

  “I knew Xavier was a jerk, but I never expected something like this.”

  “Me either. I’m so sorry I encouraged you to go out with him.”

  I start to respond, but Wendell steps in front of me holding out his cell phone. “Excuse me Your Highness, your father would like a word.”

  “Dad?”

  “Adella, I’m sorry I should have taken better action to deal with this boy when he was in Messalinia.”

  “This isn’t your fault. This is only him.” I hate that I had to make this my dad’s problem again. My poor taste in boyfriends strikes again.

  “I’ve forwarded the information to the castle’s lawyers and media representative. They are working already to have the story retracted. This is one person’s word against another and they didn’t bother to contact you or a castle representative before publishing. We can move forward with a law suit for defamation of a royal figure.”

  “I think I would prefer if this whole thing just went away.” Could it be that simple? Can this be easily dealt with and forgotten? “Should I worry about the nobles if they hear about this article?”

  “Even if they do, they wouldn’t dare say anything about it. We don’t ever need to speak of this again once the matter is settled.”

  “Are you sure it’s okay? He talked about some really personal things. Most of what he said wasn’t even true.” I chew on my thumb nail then shake my head at myself when I see my ruined manicure. Princesses aren’t supposed to bite their nails. I go to the bathroom to search for a nail file.

  “We can do an interview or make a statement if you wish to tell your side.”

  “I’ll think about it.” I file my thumbnail tossing the file back in the drawer when the nail looks crooked.

  “I would suggest it. Even after a retraction without a statement they will still remember what he said. The castle has dealt with media scrutiny before. We will handle this the same way, with grace and dignity.”

  “I’ll do whatever you think is best.”

  “This will be dealt with swiftly and with finesse. I would like for you to return home as quickly as possible.”

  “I’m going to ask Wendell to arrange for flights tomorrow. I still have plans to meet mom tonight but I’m ready to leave.” I never thought there would be a time I wouldn’t want to be in this city. It’s always been my home, and I’ve always loved it here.

  “I think that’s wise. I don’t want to worry about your safety when you’re so far away.”

  “You don’t think I’m safe here?” I sit back with Seneca and look at her, her eyes wide.

  “They did make you out to be a terrible person. I wouldn’t want anyone trying to find you or confronting you about it. Does anyone know you’re in the city?

  “Just Seneca and my mom.”

  “I’ll have Wendell hire extra security for the remainder of your stay.
”

  “You don’t think anyone would bother mom or Seneca, do you?”

  “Not likely, but I’ll have security put on them too until this matter is settled. I’ll see you tomorrow, Adella. I’m sorry that boy did this to you.”

  I hand the phone back to Wendell, and Seneca reaches over grabbing my hand.

  “That’s it. We’re going to a hotel, checking in under fake names, and hiding you until tomorrow.”

  “Sen, stop. This paper has been out all day, and we had no idea. I’m sure its fine. Nosey Mrs. Clemmings hasn’t even come over to shame me.”

  “You’re right.” She sits back on the couch taking a deep breath, smoothing down her wild curls. “I went from zero to full on crazy a little quick there.”

  “Yes, but that’s why I love you. You’re always willing to fight for me no matter what.”

  “You would for me, too.” She yawns big covering her mouth. “All that excitement wore me out.”

  “Me too. I’m going to get this dinner at Mom’s over with.” I stand and grab my purse off the table. “You find us a movie and order some pizza for when I get back.”

  “Double pepperoni, double cheese, and a double feature of the hottest guys Hollywood has to offer, coming right up.”

  “You’re the best.” I chuckle on my way out the door with Wendell tagging along.

  The two days since I’ve been back in Messalinia have been a whirlwind to get the last touches ready for the gala. I’ve managed to avoid Quinn and any drama that might have followed me back from Philadelphia so far and the night is moving along perfectly.

  hospital gala is a huge success, the nobles and elites are all in attendance. Many came only to be seen or participate in gossip and really have no interest in the cause. As long as they make their contribution, I don’t care. There are a few however that seem genuinely interested in the project and what I am planning next. The nobility doesn’t know yet, I won’t be taking the throne and for now, it can stay that way. I don’t want to think about what problems that will cause. My father assures me it will be fine, but until then I’m happy to just keep it to myself. I don’t need any reason for them to not support the hospital.

  Dad crosses the room and stops next to me. “You did wonderfully tonight Adella. You have plenty to be proud of.” The

  “I’m so glad I was able to make this into a reality. I couldn’t have done it without you, Dad.” He easily could have said no and shut the whole thing down. luckily, he cares greatly for his people. With his encouragement, I’m looking into other ideas to begin working on as well.

  “Nonsense, child. You were in total control of this. The people responded to you and accepted your authority, like they would a queen. Have you given any reconsideration to taking the throne?”

  “Dad, please. I love this country, but I’m better suited for things like this, while someone else rules.”

  “If that’s your choice I’ll respect it. I just had to ask again after seeing how you’ve handled yourself these past few weeks. I couldn’t be prouder. Even with all the worry from the article, you’ve shown the dignity and grace of a royal and came out on top of everything with your head held high. I’m proud of you.”

  “Thank you. It means everything to me that you support what I’m attempting to accomplish.” There is a long way to go and only a portion of the hospital will be opening. But tonight, I can celebrate the success of the gala with plenty of people in attendance and a constant flow of donations as each person in attendance doesn’t want to be outdone by the other.

  We stand together quietly, and I absorb it all finally able to relax a little. I’m elated the hospital is coming together. That is until Lady Eleanor struts by. I swear her overly exposed boobs are ten times bigger than when I saw her last month. She winks at my dad as she passes.

  “Wow, Dad, did she just wink at you?” I glance up and see his lip twitch.

  “Who?” He asks, continuing to look out at the crowd.

  “What do you mean, who? There is no way you didn’t just see that.” She wasn’t exactly subtle, although she never is.

  “I saw it.” His cheeks begin to turn pink. Blushing? No. My dad, the king doesn’t blush. He’s commands men with such confidence they never falter, he doesn’t ever raise his voice because they do whatever he asks without question. “I have news. This is a little awkward and not the place I wanted to tell you… I’m getting married.”

  “When did this happen?” I know I’ve been busy and distracted, but I didn’t think I was this out of touch with the world around me.

  “While you were away, I proposed to Lady Eleanor.” He’s kidding.

  “Her? That’s who your marrying?”

  His head snaps in my direction and I wish I could take it back.

  “You don’t care for her?” The frown is there for only a fraction of a second, but I saw it. Darn it, I thought I was done with blundering every stupid thought I have.

  “It isn’t that. I just find it strange. She’s so young and you were married to her sister. You don’t think it’s weird?” I work to keep a neutral expression. I don’t want him upset with me and especially not over something as permanent as a marriage. I just can’t help but wonder why she is going for my dad he may be a king but there are stipulations to marrying him. She’s young and stunning, she can marry anyone she wants.

  “Yes, she is the younger sister of my late wife. I know it seems odd, but she is willing to marry me knowing it is to produce an heir. She’s giving up her life and chance for a normal marriage for her country. It takes a very admirable woman to do that.” His stern king voice replaces his dad voice letting me know this is the final discussion about it.

  “I guess the situation around your search for a wife makes it a little time sensitive.” I’m not sure if I respect her decision to be a baby factory or if I’m repulsed by it. It’s all for the greater good of her country, right? “I’m sorry. It’s of course your choice to marry whomever you want. If she makes you happy, then I’m happy for you.”

  “I’m fond of her and in time, I believe I will grow to love her. She is very kind and considerate. Right now, I must think of our future, and she has agreed to take part in that.”

  “Then congratulations.” I beam at him. It doesn’t matter how I feel about her. He’s only doing this because he needs a successor and I’m not the child to do it. I put him in this situation and I can’t throw a fit about who he chooses to marry.

  “Would you mind too terribly much if I didn’t stay the remainder of the gala?”

  “Of course not. It’s nearly finished. Go be with your fiancé.” He kisses my temple and strides the direction Lady Eleanor passed by.

  As long as she’s good to him I can learn to live with it.

  Walking through the crowd, I can finally take time to really appreciate how perfect the hospital décor is. I told the designer to make it fun and magical, and he didn’t disappoint. I hope the children love it. It’s looks nothing like a hospital when you walk in. The walls are all painted murals to look like a jungle. Large plants in bright shades and giant green leaves cover the back wall and stairway. Oversized bug and bird figures hang from the ceiling. Several jungle animal statues are scattered throughout the lobby, including a life size elephant and tiger.

  There is a large indoor playcenter in the three-story entry way with slides and a ball pit. And my personal favorite is the movie center. The far-left wall has a drop-down screen for the projector with lots of cozy chairs and a snack area with a soda fountain. I don’t want the kids to dread coming here, and in the horrible instance they never leave, I want them to have had a least a little fun in a not so scary place.

  As I step back away from the movie area to return to the gala, I bump into someone.

  “Oh, I am so sorry.” I look up at the tall, well-dressed man. He looks familiar, strangely enough since I’m almost certain I’ve never met him.

  “Completely my fault. Spencer Regalo at your service, Your Highn
ess.” He bows deeply, and I offer him my hand.

  “Pleased to meet you Mr. Regalo. Thank you for your attendance tonight. I’m so happy to see so many new faces and meet people who care as much about the children as I do.”

  “The pleasure is mine.” He offers me his arm as we walk back toward the crowd but stay walking along the outskirts. “I have great concerns for this country and the citizens. I’ve also been very eager to meet the new princess everyone is so excited about. It would seem you have made quite an impression on everyone.”

  “I just want the children to have the best care available to them with the greatest ease.”

  “So modest too. Surely you see the support you are gaining.” He picks up a wine glass from the bar offering to me, I shake my head and he shrugs drinking from it.

  “That isn’t what this is about.” I still haven’t gotten used to how forward some of these people are and haven’t learned to keep my emotions from showing when they upset me. Some of them find it humorous. Bored rich people. They could be doing so much more with their time and money.

  “Perhaps not, but you will benefit from it either way.” My hope that people wouldn’t see this that way is crushed.

  “Was there something you wanted other than to criticize my efforts here?”

  He looks behind me. “That wasn’t my intention, I’m sorry to have upset you. I hope we meet again very soon, Your Highness.” He bows quickly and disappears into the crowd. How strange. I need to be sure to ask around about Mr. Regalo.

  “Another admirer?” Quinn’s breath fans my ear as he stands too close.

  My body stiffens, and I work to relax it. Breathing slowly in and out, I turn to face him. “Why are you here?”

  “Why? To support the hospital of course. I care about the children in this country and happen to have the funds to be helpful in events such as these.”

  “I get it. You’re a rich and handsome duke.

  “You think I’m handsome?” He takes my hand in his, a slight tug has me stepping forward closer to him.