I returned to England hastily, a contrast to my departure. I was silent the entire journey, though my phone wasn't. I managed to block most of Josh's social media and phone, avoiding the ridiculous amount of texts I knew he'd send once he had enough to drink. As for Jeremy and Hugh, they sent a couple but didn't persistently nag me. They respected my choice and I respected them for leaving me alone.
I arrived back at the Palace to a dreary silence. Mother had returned from the Scottish Estate in my absence and Edward, well, I was ready to be yelled at. I expected it after my whole 'fugitive on the run' adventure.
I quietly entered the throne room, sitting by the bay window next to Edward. We were both silent; it was clear he knew what had happened. Smithers was at fault for that. He took my hand and gave it a reassuring, brotherly squeeze.
"I don't want to renounce my title." I spoke quietly. He was taken aback by this, but didn't interrupt. "I realise now that I was only, really, doing it for Josh. I'd convinced myself that I hated this job, this life, but now.. I think I only did it to be with him, to make him happy."
"And now?" Edward asked. I chuckled a little,
"Now I realise that I am better off alone, at least for now."
"It's a shame Kings no longer have the power to behead people." He teased, trying to make light of the situation.
"You wouldn't dare." I had a small grin. "but he's just a man, Edward. I love him very, very much." I cracked. "I had enough time on the plane to think about it and I hope I can move on from it, but I feel I must throw myself at some other project. I need time."
"Smithers said you wanted to announce the engagement to the Duke of Lancaster." Edward spoke. "I don't think that's a project."
"I disagree." I responded. "It's the only way I can permanently move on with my life now."
"I don't think you're doing this for the right reasons." Edward warned in a more serious tone than earlier.
"It doesn't matter the reasons." I snapped, looking at him.
"Doesn't it?"
"You've changed your tune." I muttered. Edward smiled,
"I see now that love is more important than duty."
"Well, I can learn to love Julian. He's handsome, kind, and he seems to like me."
"He doesn't love you."
"He can learn to do that, and even then, it's no secure thing. After all, Josh loved me and yet he still went for that stupid little brunette." I spoke.
"You're stronger than that." Edward reassured me.
"Oh, brother," I chuckled. "I know."
A rather quiet patter of footsteps caused us both to turn, Julian was the origin of the noise.
"Julian." I smiled, standing to greet him. He bowed and smiled,
"Your Highness," He turned to Edward. "Your Majesty."
"I assume Mother has told you what you're here for." I spoke. He nodded.
"It's all very sudden, Your Highness."
"Well, after the Grantham party, how could I resist?"
Julian grinned. "Might I speak with you a moment?"
I looked to Edward who nodded. I stood and smiled at Julian, following him out of the throne room.
"I must admit this isn't what I want." Julian spoke in a candid moment. "My Mother feels that the girl I wish to marry is.. unsuitable."
