Rearrange Me

XIII

Eleanora

"When I was a boy, I often found le Mama writing as you do. She would hide her writings around the palace and give us... riddles of a sort when she wanted them found. I cannot believe it has taken me this long to figure this one out."

"Are you going to read it?"

"Mama used to speak of things. Things about love. As did my father. But le Papa taught me to be respectful. Le Mama was different." Philippe looks at me.

"I am afraid I do not understand." I tell him, looking back down at the book in his hands.

"She always spoke of consummation in a secretive way. For she was a lady, but she wanted me to understand."

My knitted brows deepen. "Understand what?"

"I believe my parents consummated their marriage in private before the traditional way, and kept it a secret."

"Is that allowed?"

"That is what a secret is for, Nora." He tells me with a wry smile.

"You wish to break the law?" I ask.

"I do believe it would be easier for us if we'd consummated it before having witnesses."

"Yes, I suppose. What if they found out?"

"I am positive we are not the first to do this." He closes the book and unfolds the crème parchment with black ink.

The entire letter is in French, beautiful handwriting.

"Your Mama's handwriting was beautiful."

"There was not a thing about Mama that was not beautiful." I smile up at him in adoration.

"Do you wish to read it alone?"

Philippe shakes his head. "No, I do not."

I nod and look down at the parchment once again.

My dearest Philippe,

I do hope you are reading this at the correct time.

One day, when your father and I have passed, you will take the throne. It is a day I both dread and look forward to.

I dread the power you will hold. Your Papa is teaching you correctly, but there is still fear that his teachings will no longer matter when he is gone and anger and power will wield you.

I look forward to the day you fall in love. Your wife was not your choice, it was never to be. I understand you must feel that was unfair of us to do, but it was our duty. Princess Eleanora, whilst still a young girl, is truly beautiful. I do believe you will fall in love with her eyes, they shine like Emeralds in the sun.

"You met le Mama?"

"I do not have recognition of it. I must've been young."

Eleanora is a beautiful name. She has a sister, who much reminds me of little Alice. I understand if you are angry with your Papa and I for forcing you into a marriage, but it is the law if you wish to hold the throne.

After you read this, this letter must be burnt, for it holds information no person but yourself or Eleanora is allowed to see. You mustn't even tell Jean.

The Marital Act is a very intimate act that shall be shared between two persons who love each other. Unfortunately as royals, we do not always get to perform with persons whom we love. You are expected to have children, Philippe. The viewing of a consummation is an act I shall never agree with. But it must be done, or they will kill the child to which you have conceived, after it is born.