armor, despite her warnings I not do the same. In that split second, she appears vulnerable, looking like her almost ninety years. But it vanishes as quickly as it appeared, her expression hardening on me once more.
“Which is why I need to be quite frank with you. The job looming in Prince Gabriel’s future won’t be an easy one. Not only will he need to manage the running of this country, he’ll have to do so in a way that will keep the spectacle alive and well. It’s not an easy task. And is one best carried out with as little…distractions as possible.”
“Distractions? I’m not sure I understand.”
“Love is a distraction.”
I blink, my blood pressure beginning to rise, heat prickling my skin. “How can love be a distraction?”
“Feelings make you weak. Make you vulnerable. Force you to lose your focus on what’s important.”
She brings her teacup toward her mouth and takes a sip. I simply stare at her. I couldn’t even drink my tea if I wanted, nausea rolling through me.
“I assume the crown prince has mentioned the referendum that’s going to a vote in a few months.”
“He has.”
“That’s a prime example of why he cannot afford any distractions. This isn’t the first time such a referendum has garnered enough support to be taken to the people for a vote. And it won’t be the last. I’m sure you’re a…lovely girl…” The distaste in her expression is evidence she thinks otherwise, “but Gabriel will face enough hurdles with his condition. He doesn’t need anything else to distract him. And that’s all you’ll be. That’s all you’ve been to him this past year. A distraction. You’ve taken him away from his duties. Made him shun his responsibilities not only to the Crown, but to his country. I have every reason to believe he’ll do the same in the future, as well, as long as you’re still in the picture. It’s generally frowned upon for the heir apparent to marry for love, and for good reason. It causes needless problems. Ones this country cannot afford, particularly right now.”
How do I even respond? And what’s her reason for telling me all of this? In the hopes I’ll walk away? I’m not sure what’s more shocking — the words she says or the tone in which she utters them, as if reporting on the latest polo match, not telling her grandson’s fiancée to more or less take a hike.
“Rest assured, you will still be provided for. Upon a positive paternity test, of course.”
“Paternity test?” I repeat, unsure I heard her correctly.
“The royal family takes its obligations seriously. As long as the child is, in fact, Gabriel’s, we will ensure you’re both taken care of for the rest of your lives.” She narrows her gaze. “Unless you’d prefer to explore…other options.”
My jaw drops, her suggestion churning my stomach. I shouldn’t be surprised. After all, Anderson told me his father’s head of household did the same thing. It still stings to think this woman would propose it, and to her own flesh and blood.
Then again, these people don’t have children because they want to share their love with another human. They do so out of duty, to continue the monarchy.
Nothing more.
“There is no other option,” I say coldly.
“Very well. We just need to confirm paternity before we discuss any sort of financial arrangement.”
“That’s not what I meant.” My voice comes out hard and biting, not a hint of hesitation.
Placing my hands on the table, I slowly rise to my feet. I’m about to break every etiquette rule in the book, but that’s the last thing on my mind right now. My chest tightens as disgust bubbles in my stomach, spreading through my veins.
“Under no circumstances will I agree to your little…proposition. You don’t want to hear this, but I love Anderson. And he loves me. Our love isn’t a burden. It’s a goddamn blessing.”
Her eyes widen, confirming my suspicion that she’s not used to people standing up to her.
“You know what’s funny?” I straighten, crossing my arms over my chest. Judging by the look of horror on her face, it’s not proper etiquette to stand in such a way in the presence of royalty. “Like all little girls, I once dreamed I’d meet a prince and be a princess. Whenever I caught glimpses of them on TV, I actually envied the royal family. I actually envied you. I remember seeing clips of you with your children. Thought you were the type of mother I wish I