“It's because my parents are impatient by nature,” I replied lightly. “They prefer to address matters sooner rather than later.”
Sébastien cleared his throat discreetly. “The Crown Prince arrived yesterday and has met with Their Royal Highnesses. He asked me to inform you that he has 'prepared the battlefield' as best he could.”
Gratitude and apprehension washed through me in equal measure. Remy had kept his word, and advocated for my right to live openly. But his military metaphor was telling. This would not be a simple conversation.
Theo tensed beside me. Before I could reassure him, he straightened his shoulders, speaking with quiet determination.
“Whatever you need from me tomorrow, I'm here,” he said steadily. “If you want me to come with you, I will. If best for me to stay back, I understand that too. Just... I'm with you, Ricard. However you need me.”
His declaration moved me profoundly. This man had crossed an ocean to support me and was now offering to stand beside me during possibly one of the most difficult confrontations of my life.
“Thank you,” I said softly, resisting the urge to pull him close. “Your support means more than I can express.” I looked over at Sebastien. “And the second item?”
“The media strategy we discussed,” he continued, handing me a leather portfolio. “Ms. Dubois has completed the press statements for various scenarios following tomorrow's meeting. And security has implemented the privacy measures around the estate.”
Theo froze. “Media? Will they know we're here?”
I squeezed his hand. “Not yet. We've been careful. Private airfield, tinted windows. But eventually, yes, our relationship will become public.”
“We've prepared for that eventuality,” Sébastien added with surprising gentleness. “The communications team has experience managing similar situations for other royal families. They've draftedstatements emphasizing the duke's right to privacy and happiness, highlighting Mr. Bennett's care for his brother, and focusing on the charitable foundation you'll be establishing for traumatic brain injury research.”
“A foundation?” Theo looked at me questioningly.
“I thought it might give meaning to the media attention we'll inevitably face,” I explained. “Channel it toward something that matters to you.”
His eyes widened with understanding. “That's... brilliant, actually.”
“It's the royal way,” I said with a small smile. “If we must be in the public eye, let's ensure it benefits others.”
Sébastien tucked the portfolio under his arm with practiced efficiency. “If there's nothing else, Your Grace, I'll see to the final arrangements for tomorrow's meeting.”
“Thank you, Sébastien.” I appreciated his discretion, the way he understood when to stay and when to withdraw. It was one of his many qualities that had made him indispensable to me over the years.
He bowed, first to me, then to Theo. “Mr. Bennett, should you need anything during your stay, please don't hesitate to ask. The staff has been instructed to accommodate your requests with the highest priority.”
The formality in his tone had softened, a subtle but significant shift that told me he had already accepted Theo's place in my life. Relief washed through me. Sébastien's approval mattered more than I cared to admit.
As Sebastien walked away, I turned to Theo, who stood examining a tapestry on the wall with feigned interest. His fingers fidgeted with the hem of his shirt, a nervous habit I'd come to recognize.
“Are you alright?” I asked, stepping closer.
“Just processing.” His voice was steady despite his restless hands. “It's becoming real, isn't it? All of this, us, it's not just some fantasy anymore.”
“On the contrary,” I replied, my tone gentle but resolute, “this is perhaps the most authentic moment in my life. Come.” I took Theo's hand. “Let me show you to your room. Though I should warn you, I don't intend for you to spend much time there.”
His eyebrows rose, a smile playing at his lips. “Oh? And where will I be spending my time instead?”
“In my chambers,” I replied, enjoying the way his pupils dilated at my words. “They're more spacious, and the bed is... designed for activities beyond mere sleeping.”
“Is that so, Your Grace?” he teased, using my title in the way he knew would affect me most.
“Indeed,” I returned, guiding him toward the grand staircase. “And I believe a thorough demonstration is in order. After dinner, of course.”
“Of course,” he echoed, grin widening. “We wouldn't want to scandalize the staff by skipping a meal.”
As we climbed the stairs, Theo asked, “So how does this work? Me and Casey living here? I mean, legally speaking.”
“Your residency permits were processed last week,” I replied. “One advantage of being a member of the royal family is expedited immigration. You and Casey have been granted special status as 'persons of national interest' to Avaline. If you agree, I’d like you to chair the new foundation, which also provides legal residency.”
