"I absolutely hate that I have to do this, but I can't stay for Thanksgiving."

Magnus waited for Freya's reaction, but she didn't say a thing, or maybe he didn't give her enough time. "I need to get back to the island with Bernard. There is a pressing matter that must be dealt with in person. Time is of the essence. I'll tell you all about it as soon as I can."

"When are you leaving?"

"Well, that depends on you?"

"What do you mean it depends on me? You just told me you can't be here for Thanksgiving?"

"Right. I wish I could tell you, but I must speak to my family first. I can leave Sunday night, so we can at least spend the weekend together? Before you come out to see me. I'm thrilled your boss understands."

"Magnus. I'm telling you right now. Don't bail on me again. Not with matters such as this. Thanksgiving is a big deal here in the States."

"I have a proposition. How about we have our own little Thanksgiving at the palace later?"

He imagined she was smiling when she let out a playful sigh.

"Fine. Just pass the details on to Santiago before you leave. I know Marissa is excited to see him again."

Sudden anger rose in Magnus. "I'd prefer you do not have him over. Look, don't ask me any questions right now. I'll tell you everything I can once you are at my side on the island. But for now, I'll leave instructions for him to go nowhere near you."

"Magnus, do you realize how possessive you sound right now? Look, the only reason I am going to oblige you is that I know you had your suspicions as to who leaked your whereabouts to the media. However, I would like honesty and transparency. So, when I am at the palace, I would like to continue this conversation."

The assertiveness in her tone was rather sexy and relieving. She wouldn't pressure him, but she also wouldn't have Santiago over.

"One more thing, and I'll let the issue die. Please ask your friends to not divulge any information to him?"

"Fine. Not that I believe they would, but to cover our butts, I'll ask them to not share anything with Santiago." She took a deep breath. "I have to get back to work. There's a lot I need to get done to prepare for my trip. Like I said before, it is a busy time of the year here."

"I'll call you later this evening when your classes are over," he said as she hung up the phone.

I hope I didn't sound like a paranoid prince, he thought.

The coded tap at the door alerted him of Gerard's arrival.

"Your Royal Highness, Bernard will be joining us in a few minutes. If you do not mind, sir, I'd like a moment."

"Gerard, of course. Come in, have a seat. How can I help you?"

"Sir, I know I'm crossing the line here. But I couldn't help but overhear your conversation with Bernard last night. Being that I was privy to this, you both discussed the need to hire someone to help Miss Sinclair in the capacity of a social secretary."

"Yes, that is correct."

"My daughter, Estella, recently graduated as communications major with an emphasis in journalism. She's been interning for a station in Spain, but it doesn't seem like they'll be keeping her on. I'm sure she'd be willing to help without the pay. The exposure would be great for her resume."

Magnus sat back in his chair recognizing the perfect solution right before him.

"Gerard, that is a genius idea." He smiled, recalling a memory. "I remember not so long ago she was badgering me for a one-on-one interview for her high school paper. I'd be thrilled to have her on board, with pay." He gave Gerard a playful stern look. "I think she'll be good for Freya."

"Thank you, Your Highness, I really appreciate it. I know Estella is going to be excited. I'll hold off telling her until you have coordinated the details of Miss Sinclair's visit."

Gerard excused himself to get Bernard.

Magnus returned his thoughts to Freya. He was really getting attached to her. As much as he wanted to spend more time with Freya, he knew he needed to create space so she wouldn't feel pressured.

The knock at the door came, and Bernard walked in.

"Prince Magnus, how are you?"

"I'm good, Bernard. So, we have quite a few things we need to address. First things first. We found our liaison for Freya."

"We have?"

Magnus explained the details to him, and Bernard agreed it was the perfect solution.

"Your Highness, we also need to coordinate Miss Sinclair’s trip. I believe it is important that we schedule a few official outings she can observe as a guest. It's important that the public see you both together to establish the relationship in their own eyes as a friendship. Official protocol. Also, the Christmas Ball. There will be a few dignitaries present this year as they are trying to persuade your father’s vote. Miss Sinclair will, of course, be in attendance. This will be an official dinner, and media will be present in some way. Her Majesty will organize her charity events leading up to the ball, and I think it is important that Miss Sinclair be there, as a sign of solidarity between your guest and the Royal Family."

Magnus sat back in his chair, contemplating the slew of events which led up to the Christmas Ball. There were many, and he had planned to take part this year.

"What of the New Year, Bernard; what is scheduled for the New Year?"

"The same, mostly family. Your father has ordered the firework display as always. I haven't seen a guest list for the dinner, so I suspect it will be kept to a minimum."

"Let me know as soon as you see the list. I want to ensure that we are taking into consideration my wanting to take Freya to the Mediterranean. She's never been, and I think this is an excellent opportunity."

"Your Highness, that is really considerate of you. However, the media will be in a frenzy more so back home than here. Especially after the news breaks over the Princess, which we still need to discuss."

"Why do you need to be so rational, Bernard? Here I'm trying to be normal." He smiled. "But yes, I agree, I must proceed with caution. I can do that, and you know this very well."

"Except we've never faced a scandal such as the one that is brewing with Her Royal Highness."

"All right. Let's discuss that situation. How exactly is it that I need to be involved when I'm the victim? What are you proposing, Bernard? That I just forgive Cossette? Just like that? Has it occurred to anyone this is exactly why she dares to do these things? There are no serious repercussions to her actions. What’s next, murder for hire? Is that what it will take for this family to recognize the problem that has been brewing for a long time? Cossette has control issues and delusions that she can sweep right in and be Queen. I probably haven't helped with my rebellion, but that is something I'm dealing with. And it is no excuse for her bad behavior."

"Your Highness, I do not disagree with you. However, those are matters for the King. I cannot tell him how to address the issues with his daughter any more than I can tell him how to rule his monarchy."

"I know. I'm sorry. Just frustrated. Putting on a united front? Do my parents not think that those who matter don't already know what a psycho she is? Don't answer that."

Bernard smiled. "Prince Magnus, do it for the King and Queen. At the end of the day, isn't this why any of us are here?"

Magnus knew Bernard was right. He hadn’t been serious about denouncing his throne in his youth. It was a phase of anger over not having the same freedom others had. When he rebelled, his father stood by his side. Patiently. Never giving up on him. He understood Magnus needed space to grow and assume the responsibility of being first in line to the throne.

"Prince Magnus, I went over the royal protocol for having guests visit the palace. We have several apartments in which Miss Freya can stay. That is not an issue. However, with the various numbers of events, we must keep in mind the order of precedence at processions. Miss Sinclair will have to enter alone," Bernard paused. "Even with Miss Estella at Miss Sinclair's side, please keep in mind neither woman is as versed with royal etiquette and mannerisms. If you do not mind, I'll ask my wife Sophie to be available to help Miss Sinclair with this."

"Thank you, Bernard. I don't mind at all. Just see to it that everyone is coordinated correctly regarding schedules and that Sophie covers each detail as to be expected. I know Freya is nervous and doesn't want to be making a fool of herself.'

"I've also arranged for our return home."

"About that, I'd like to leave Sunday late evening."

"Your Royal Highness. That is not a choice, unfortunately. Your father has called a press conference for Sunday, late afternoon."

"Sunday?"

"Yes. We’ve caught wind the leak is happening on Sunday."

"So, we leave on Friday?"

"Yes. But that is the latest we can leave while giving ourselves enough time to go over logistics with the King. Also, we have an early meeting with the Privy Council on Monday."

"Oh?"

"With the matter of the upcoming vote, your sudden desire to be involved, and the fallout that will come from Princess Cossette's theatrics, you'll need to work closely with them. And with your father, and with that, I'm done. Unless you'd like to cover anything else, I'll take my leave."

“Bernard, what can you tell me of Freya's family? You picked up on something that allowed Freya to easily open up to you."

"I'd made my own inquiries as an undercover reporter. I offered the family money to speak. A bit of money. But they were too honorable to take this. However, the mother, Doris, made a comment that gave me the indication that she wasn't pleased with the possibility of her daughter dating a prince. She said, and I quote, 'my daughter's private affairs are just that. Private. Whatever obsession you have with that prince, take it up with him.' "

"Bernard, I'm shocked you did that. Even though I understand why. Very well, Bernard. I'm going to take in the scenery a bit. You are welcome to join me."

"I appreciate the offer, Your Highness. But I have a lot to attend to. Enjoy your sightseeing."

Magnus didn't pay attention to Bernard as he left. Instead, he paced the length of the window, looking out onto the city streets as people walked to and from their destinations, so occupied with their own matters they probably couldn't imagine a Crown Prince of an unknown place to them stood just above.

He turned to sit on the sleek modern leather chair, recognizing furniture like this was something he'd never have in the palace, no matter how much he attempted to convince his mother to allow him to redecorate his apartment. In fact, all their properties had been in the royal family for ages; the furnishings were almost all original.

He stood and grabbed his wool coat. A nice walk in the city seemed more palatable. So off he went.

"Hi. I got your message. I'm happy to hear about your vacation approval. I'll have everything taken care of before I leave." Magnus wondered if she would give any hint about being sad that he was leaving sooner than he'd anticipated. His feelings for her were only increasing.

"Thanks! Are you still leaving on Sunday?" Freya asked.

"Actually, that is the news I have for you. I'm afraid I must leave sooner. Your security detail will stay with you, but we will be leaving on Friday morning. My father will be making an important press announcement on Sunday for which we, the family, need to prepare for. And it seems I have an early appointment with the Privy Council on Monday.”

“I suppose I’ll find out when everyone else does.” She hesitated. “That really didn’t come out right. Did it?” Freya chuckled. “I totally understand. Well, I hate to cut it short, but I have students arriving. Class starts shortly.”

“Freya, wait. Will I have an opportunity to see you today?”

“Magnus, I’m sorry. Today is not a good day. Training for the elite team runs late tonight. I’m already sleep-deprived and still need to get everything ready for my leave of absence.”

“I understand. How about I pick you up for lunch tomorrow? You know, since we are both downtown?”

“I can make that work. I’ll text you in the morning once I’ve settled in at the office. We are trying to wrap up a matter that needs my attention so it might be a little later.”

“Sounds great. Thank you. Have a good evening, Freya.”

“Thank you. You too.”

Magnus hung up the phone recognizing he too needed to get a good night’s rest. He walked the hotel suite, taking in a few deep breaths. He really needed to unwind but wasn’t sure if having a scotch was the solution. Instead, he rang down to request a sleeping time tea. The concierge got it up to him immediately.

He took a quick shower and dried his hair, and slipped under the blankets to enjoy his tea.

Tempted to read, he knew it was best not to; he didn’t need to get into a book so much he wouldn’t put it down, which was often an issue with him.

Instead, he allowed the tea to take effect as his eyelids grew heavy, forcing him to succumb to a much-needed rest.

“Your Highness! Your Highness, pardon my intrusion, but you must see this immediately.” Bernard turned on the television as Magnus tried to adjust his vision to the interruption.

He pulled himself up, rubbing his eyes. His ab muscles contracted at the sudden lack of warmth as a chill overcame him.

Magnus quickly stood, grabbing the remote control from Bernard to adjust the volume.

There was an eeriness that could be felt in the air.

“Is her disdain so grave?” Magnus asked Bernard who words seemed to fail him as he shook his head. “Prepare the flight. We leave today.”

Bernard immediately sprang into action. “How many men are you leaving behind for Miss Sinclair?”

“I’ve discussed the logistics with Gerard already. However, considering these new events, please coordinate so Jean-Paul stays as well. Eros is good and all, but we’ll need someone with more behind-the-scenes detail to help us get through this. And no need to send anyone in to help me pack. I’ve got this. Just ensure everyone is ready as soon as possible.” He paused. “Bernard, get my father on the phone for me before you leave. I need to speak to him privately,” Magnus said as he disappeared in the bathroom.

Moments later when he’d surfaced, Bernard left his cell phone on the table for him and took his leave.

Breathing deeply and clearing his throat, he took the call. “Hello, Father.”

“Magnus.” The King too cleared his throat. “I take you watched the news?”

“I have. I’m unsure what this alleged preemptive strike is all about? What is it exactly your daughter is playing at?”

"Son, I believe someone is manipulating your sister. This move to dissolve the monarchy is completely against what she truly wants. She wants the crown, and I believe this is a tactic to negotiate. It'll test our nation. Are they behind their monarchy or not? As you know, most of the world feels the idea of a monarchy is antiquated. So this all is being done to stir up controversy and right before the important summit. There is a more sinister hand at play here. Your sister is intelligent, but this goes deeper."

Magnus had to think about that for a moment. It was true; he already had these suspicions. However, this wasn't something Santiago de la Cruz had the power to mastermind. Someone or someones were behind this. But for what? Their sovereign country didn't bother anyone. It was sustainable but more of a tourist destination for the rich. The cost of living and wages to their citizens was affordable, but it was massively expensive for visitors. It was one of the main draws.

"Father, do you have any ideas?' Magnus moved about packing his belongings.

"I have a few propositions. One is your friend over there. I'll admit, I think he's only a puppet. We'll discuss this once you are here. You are leaving immediately, aren't you?"

"I am. Very well, I'll see you in the morning."

"Why in the morning?" The King sounded a bit taken back.

"I presume you'll be resting when I arrive?"

"Son, if I am, which I doubt, please, wake me."

With that, they bid farewell as Magnus posted a text over to Freya:

I'm sorry. I must leave sooner than I'd expected. I'll call you when I've arrived. See you soon. Magnus.

He wondered if she knew already. It didn't matter. He'd now be able to speak to her about the matter more openly.

"My dear. You need to speak to Cossette. Avoiding her will only make matters worse," Queen Esperanza spoke softly, attempting to calm her husband's temper.

"My Queen, how would you suggest the conversation start? Our daughter has formed outlandish ideas in her head and allowed herself to be persuaded by who knows who! What am I supposed to do? Sit down and attempt to negotiate with her? Hmm? Negotiate with my daughter over matters of the Crown?"

Esperanza moved to the King’s back and gently placed her hands around his shoulders, kneading these to relax the King.

It almost seemed to work, but they were interrupted.

"Your Royal Majesty, I apologize. But you must see this immediately." A page held a silver tray with a sealed envelope.

"You may leave. Thank you." The Queen dismissed the young man.

The King stared at the envelope, recognizing his daughter’s seal as the Princess of Martierra.

"Are you not going to open it?"

"I have a bad feeling about this," he quietly said. "Will you please open and read it?"

The Queen moved forward to retrieve the envelope, softly stroking the wax seal. It still held a little warmth, meaning the princess had just handled it.

She reached into the drawer of the royal desk, grabbing her husband's letter opener that looked more like a dagger with the family's crest at the top. Slowly, she slid it through the seal opening the letter.

"Shall I read this aloud?"

Her King nodded his head.

"Very well." She moved to sit across from him. "Your Royal Majesty, King Ferdinand VI of Martierra. Today's news conference certainly caught you off guard. If it didn't, it should have. My move to call for the abolition of the monarchy is simple. The entire institution of a royal government is unconscionable today. A hereditary government seems archaic, and the aristocratic system is laughable at best. The people are ready to transition to a different form of government, one which gives them a voice and legislative power. You'll see this unfold as the news spreads regarding my move towards abolition from autocratic power. Sincerely, Cossette Dahl."

The Queen's voice remained unmoved. She folded the letter and returned it to the tray.

"All because Magnus is not going to abdicate the throne," the King said, more to himself.

Esperanza was a royal descendant of the Spanish Crown. Raised in an aristocracy, she was versed in how to conduct herself, even within controversial family matters. When it became apparent she would marry the Crown Prince of Martierra, her parents immediately ensured she had all the proper training for a Queen.

But every word of wisdom was glossed with a cautionary message: never upset your King.

However, this wasn't merely about her King. It was about her children and the future of her country. A country and its people she loved.

"Has the King stormed into your apartment yet?"

"He has not. I've already sent him the note," an irritated Cossette said.

"Why so soon?" The voice was smooth like butter. "Princess, you are moving too soon," he cautioned.

"Need I remind you - you are in this for me. I determine the timeline of events," she hissed.

"I apologize, Your Highness. Forgive me."

"When will you arrive? I need you at my side when my brother arrives, which I believe is Friday."

"If you need me there that soon, I'll need you to make arrangements for a private plane," he said.

"No. You'll have to make the arrangements yourself. I suspect every single one of my moves is closely scrutinized. I don't want to jeopardize your entering the country."

"Fair enough. And where will I stay?"

Cossette moved about her apartment, cautiously weighing her options. Santiago was her husband after all. Having eloped wasn't exactly how she'd envisioned her wedding, but it was the option she had to gain a formidable ally in the man she loved.

"With me, of course."

Freya had received the message from Magnus, and a few others from just about everyone she knew. She didn't even bother anymore with the notes of anyone else but Magnus, Justine, Marissa, and Eros. Most of those messaging her were only interested in rekindling a stagnant so-called friendship to get closer to her and the media frenzy that surrounded Magnus.

She'd skipped lunch when Eros had messaged to tell her there were more reporters downstairs than in previous days.

The announcement that came out of Magnus' country was a major scandal, especially considering who'd made it. And finally, she understood what it was that Magnus was guarding and why he had to leave. But she wondered if her visiting was a good idea. The timing seemed utterly counterproductive.

"Do you have a moment?" Tran said, peeking around Freya's office door.

"Absolutely! Come in."

"May I close the door?"

"Sure."

Tran took a seat across the desk from Freya.

"I don't know how to say this, but I'm just going to come out and say it."

The comment made Freya nervous. "Please do. Whatever it is, I assure you I will listen."

"When I go on vacation to my ancestral country, there is a strong possibility I will not be returning."

Freya wasn't sure how much prying she could do. But it was Tran who'd brought up the topic and not she.

"What do you mean?"

"You know I'm not getting any younger. I'm also not very attractive and rarely, if ever, have a date. Well, my parents are not happy with me being unwed. They've found me a husband. He's a widower. He's very well off, and his children are in their teens, and study abroad. If he approves of me when he meets me, we'll be married shortly after. If that is the case, I will not be returning, as his life is there."

Freya was alarmed by the nature of the news and intrigued by how well Tran could speak of the situation without emotion. Her monotone voice didn't hesitate for one second.

"Tran? I..." She paused, trying to figure out how to be sensitive and not come across as demeaning another person’s culture. "Is this what you want?"

Her assistant stood. For the first time ever, Freya witnessed the worry on the woman's face.

She walked to the window looking out to the overcast view of the Puget Sound. There wasn't much to see as the visibility wasn't very good.

"It is shameful to dishonor one's parents. The man is a great prospect. I should consider myself very fortunate as someone such as myself isn't necessarily seen as worthy. My family doesn't come from money, but a few of my relatives have married well, and this is where the connection comes from. To disregard such an arrangement will only shun me from my family, and my parents, well, they will be thought of as incapables for my actions."

What a contrast to her relationship with her own family, Freya thought. Her mother tried at all cost to control her in certain aspects of her life but what Tran was facing was an extreme. No one currently should ever be subjected to something as reckless as toying with another's emotions and future.

"Is your relationship with your family and your parents so important to you that you'd be willing to forgo your voice and happiness?"

"Freya, I know it is difficult to fathom, especially within the Western culture. But in my culture, it is considered an honor to be matched with such a partner, especially when the arrangement is made by a better-off relative. I'm not sad in the least if that is what you are thinking. Well, not sad for myself in the sense of having been considered for this, but I am a little sad to leave my career."

It seemed her mind was made up. And as much as Freya couldn't understand the thought process of an arranged marriage, she respected Tran and her traditions.

"Tran, if this is what you want, I am happy for you. I'll be losing a valuable key employee, but I want what is best for you."

"Freya, I know this is a lot to ask. But you are the person I've been closest to. If it all works out, will you go to my wedding?"

"I'd be honored. I'd have to work out the details before I can fully commit though. You know, since you won't be here, and I would've only returned from my trip."

Tran smiled. "I understand. And I hope it all works out."

She excused herself, leaving Freya alone once again.

What just happened? Freya asked herself as she sat back in her chair trying to figure out what she was going to do without Tran. The other staff members were not up to par with Tran's experience level, and Freya wasn't always sure they were capable of adhering to the confidential aspect of the job. No, she was going to have to find a replacement, and with leaving, she wouldn't have time.

It seemed like another obstacle was set in her path, screaming for her to reconsider joining Magnus and his family.

The entire entryway toward the royal palace was meticulously lit up by solar lights, an improvement his energy conscious father had made throughout areas of the palace where solar panels could be easily adapted without marring the integrity of the royal headquarters.

The limestone palace was a beautiful rendition of the Palace of Versailles but on a somewhat smaller scale. The Baroque influence was throughout the royal chateau, expressing its magnificence through its structures, big and small.

The gardens, like those of many other palaces, were of fundamental importance, boasting strategically designed spaces both for personal amusement and festivity.

Outsiders would see the royal palace as a symbol of splendor while Magnus simply saw it as home.

"Your Royal Highness, I'll be in the office waiting. I have a few things I can catch up on, and if you don't mind, I'll ask my wife to come to see me and bring her up to speed on the matter of your guest, as I believe it is important that she and Estella start working out the details of Miss Sinclair's visit."

"Of course, and thank you, Bernard. I will leave that to you." Magnus said, disappearing up the elaborate marble staircase and into the west wing of the palace where the King and Queen kept their private quarters.

Magnus tapped on the door and waited; when he didn't hear anything, he tapped again. Perhaps his father had fallen asleep after all. He wouldn't blame him.

Just as he was turning to leave, the door opened, and his mother in an elegant powder blue robe stepped aside and let her son enter.

"Mama," Magnus said, embracing the beautiful woman. He always complimented her for her aging like a fine wine.

"Son, welcome home. Sorry, your trip was cut short." She kissed him on the cheek.

"Magnus, son. Come in," The King said from within the safety of his massive four poster bed decked with the finest of fabrics and ornate frills in a luscious gold and brown finish. The curtains at the footrest were still drawn, but those at the head had been dropped, a sign that his parents hadn't gone to sleep.

"Father. I know it is late, but I am here as you requested."

The King got out of bed, tossing his robe over his shoulders, inviting his son to join him in the seating area of the room. The Queen followed closely at her son's side.

"Yes, I appreciate your taking this matter seriously. Just a few months ago, even two years back, you might not have come so quickly." The King laughed.

Magnus didn't want to visit old times. He knew he'd rebelled and that he'd nearly driven his Father mad. The King always gave him a decent amount of space and all his love and support.

"So, tell me, Father, are we any closer to knowing why the Princess is misbehaving." He chuckled, knowing it would get a reaction from his parents.

"I haven't spoken to Cossette. Your mother has been keeping me hostage in our chambers. I suppose that is a good thing. I've been steaming. Your sister sent me a note. It is over on that table if you want to read it."

Magnus stood and walked to the table. The gentle tap from the bottom of his shoes against the marble floors was all that could be heard.

He read the letter carefully and laid it back down, returning to his seat. It was short, to the point, and caused a lot of thought.

"Father, you still believe someone else is behind this?"

"I do. Why do you ask? Didn't you think the same thing?"

"I did. However, I've had some time to think. And now, after reading that letter, I believe this to be all Cossette. Think about it, Father. Paint me in a bad light and before the leak to the media is made about who was behind the scandal, she goes and does this? I don't believe for one moment that anyone else in control. She likely has some assistance in coordinating this, but this is Cossette no matter which way I approach it from. She cannot have the crown for herself, therefore, neither should I."

It was the Queen who spoke. "As much as I do not want to believe that my daughter would do this, I'm afraid you are right, son. Your sister has ideas of her own. She is capable of masterminding this, especially with the way she's behaving towards your decision to move forth with your duties. I suspect it will get uglier before it gets better. As much as I love and respect tradition, I am first a mother, a wife, and just as importantly, a representative of this country and its people." The Queen looked at her husband. "My dear, I love you so. However, Cossette is my daughter, and I would appreciate it very much if you step back and allow me to handle this the way I see fit."

Magnus perked up as he listened to his mother's assertive statement to his Father. It wasn't a request. Anyone who'd heard the conversation would know this. Times were changing for the monarchy, that was certain.