“Well…” Mamma leans in, speaking conspiratorially to Stef, and they’re already starting to be thick as thieves, “There’s something you should know. Which I haven’t even told Theo yet. Maybe I should tell you both now.”
I lift my eyebrows, unsettled. “Tell us what, Mamma? You’re starting to scare me.”
She laughs. “Only good things, I promise. But given everything—your Copenhagen-based studies, Stef, and the upcoming celebration for Theo—I’ve arranged an apartment for you for the duration of your studies and personal security for you as well. Please accept this as a gift from us to you. It’ll provide assurance about your safety and Theo’s too.”
Stef’s eyes widen. As do mine.
“That’s so generous,” he manages. “Thank you very much. I have to admit I was feeling overwhelmed at finding a suitable flat in Copenhagen. Though Theo promised to help.”
“I’ve made arrangements for you to see the flat later if you wish.” Mamma smiles at us. “And you’re welcome here in our home anytime.”
“Thank you so much.” Stef looks incredibly relieved. “This means so much.”
“I also want to let you in on another little secret.” Mamma’s mischievous.
I suck back a deep breath. This must be what it feels like to be on the other side of all the reveals I’ve sprung on Mamma over the years. She’s totally doing this on purpose.
“What’s that?” Stef grins.
She leans in.
“I’ve never seen Theo so happy. Not for a long time. Not since before Christian passed. And if only he were here to meet you too, he’d be as thrilled as I am.”
Then, I raise a hand to cover my mouth, stunned. My eyes well up with tears. And they’re the good kind. And then I can’t help it when the release comes. I smother a gasp, tears streaming down my face, shivering despite it being August.
Stef reaches up to trace my cheek, then slides an arm around me.
I cover my face for a moment as he moves closer.
“Theo…” Stef tries.
“Darling.”
“I’m okay, I’m okay,” I gasp. “It’s a lot, to hear what you said.” At last, I lift my head, glancing at Stef. “I’m so happy, you have no idea.”
Stef gives me an affectionate grin. “You make me so happy too.”
Then, I can’t speak. Mamma’s beaming, and she rises to go arrange for some refreshments to be brought up, giving us—me—a chance to compose myself. I’m laughing and crying, and the emotional release has me feeling unsteady. But Stef’s here. And Mamma’s here too.
The people who love me most in the world. And anything feels possible.
Even being King.
Epilogue
It’s late September. Stef’s officially moved to Copenhagen, and we’re both thrilled. To be honest, he’s spending more nights together with me in my bed rather than his new suite. And believe me, we’re making up for lost time.
I’ve never been happier.
And I’m scaring Stef and Mads less often with my unsettled dreams, which is a win.
This morning, I’m trying to dress, except I keep getting distracted by Stef. First in bed. Now by him in formal wear. I push myself into his hand, already getting hard for him.
“Later,” Stef teases me between kisses. “You’re going to be late. You can’t be late.”
“To be honest, I’m already late. So worth it.”
We had an excellent start to the day. Twice.
