Brief Encounters

Timeline 1 (Part 10)

As we walked down the street toward her "secret" restaurant, I couldn't shake the feeling of being watched, a prickle of unease creeping down my spine. It felt as if someone was lurking just out of sight, blending into the shadows. I glanced around, trying to shake off the sensation, but the streetlights cast long shadows that seemed to dance around us.

Then again, that feeling was nothing new. Growing up, I was used to the cameras, the curious eyes, the way people's attention followed my every move. Some of the most chaotic moments were when I was with Mom-the crowd adored her, but the press was relentless.

Now that she's gone, some of that spotlight seems to have passed down to me and Harry. Especially with the constant expectations hanging over me to marry and have a family, as the second in line to the throne after the Queen and my father.

"What are you thinking about?" Jeanna asked, a light laugh in her voice, clearly amused by my serious expression.

"Just... things," I said with a smirk. "Like how I'm probably walking right into my own kidnapping, planned by you, of course."

Jeanna laughed, rolling her eyes. "A kidnapping? Please. If I wanted to kidnap you, you'd never see it coming." she teased, the corners of her lips curving into a mischievous smile.

"Oh, I'd see it," I replied, grinning. "But maybe I'd let you get away with it."

As we walked, she would occasionally glance at me, her expression a mix of amusement and contemplation. Her hands were tucked into the pockets of her coat, and the wind tousled her blonde hair, making it dance around her face like playful wisps.

We finally reached a small, unassuming doorway tucked between two bustling shops. Jeanna led the way, holding the door open as we stepped into a cozy, dimly lit restaurant that felt a world away from the chaos outside. The scent of fresh herbs and spices filled the air, and soft jazz played in the background.

"Welcome to my secret spot," she said with a proud smile. "I've been coming here for years. The food is incredible, and-" she glanced around, "no cameras."

I breathed out a sigh of relief, letting my shoulders relax. "A hidden gem. I can see why you like it here."

She nodded, her eyes bright with excitement as we took our seats.

A waiter named Steve approached our table with a warm smile. He looked at Jeanna, raising an eyebrow in mock surprise. "Coming in tonight with a date, are you?" he teased, handing us the menus.

Jeanna laughed, clearly at ease. "You know me, Steve-always full of surprises. So, what can you offer me tonight?"

Steve grinned, folding his arms as if considering her request seriously. "Well, for you, we've got the chef's special risotto with truffle oil, or maybe our grilled sea bass. But if you're looking for something extra special..." He leaned in conspiratorially, lowering his voice. "The chocolate lava cake is back on the menu."

Jeanna's eyes lit up. "Now you're talking. We'll take two of everything you just mentioned," she said with a wink, glancing at me to see if I approved.

I nodded, smiling. "Sounds perfect to me."

Steve gave me a knowing look. "Good choice. I'll get those started. And if you need anything, just give me a shout."

As he walked away, Jeanna watched him fondly. "Steve's been here forever. He's one of the reasons I keep coming back. It's like a family here."

I glanced around at the warm, intimate space, feeling the relaxed energy of the place. "I can see why," I said, settling into my chair. "Feels like a well-kept secret."