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Marina loved two things in this world: the monarchy and John.
And in her eyes his actions had the possibility of tarnishing both.
He had underestimated what his grandmother was willing to do to preserve the monarchy.
“What do you want?”
“For you to do what I’ve asked from the beginning: serve as the face of the family during this celebration. Give the press, and the world, a good royal to focus on. And stay away from her.” She tipped her head toward the photos of him and Dani.
“And if I do, you’ll make sure the tabloid doesn’t release those pictures?”
“The tabloids aren’t an issue. I told you I’ve taken care of it. My job is to safeguard this family. Allowing those photos to be released would only hurt us.”
And Dani.
He didn’t say that out loud. His grandmother didn’t know what was on the line for Dani, and Jameson wanted that to continue, realizing Dani might need his protection in a way he hadn’t considered.
Marina substantiated his concern when she said, “Of course, these photoscouldget out in the American press along with unconfirmed rumors of her setting her sights on a royal against the wishes of the family. It may not mean anything to her fans, but Louisa mentioned a situation she was involved in. I’d imagine a big conglomerate, focused on her brand, wouldn’t be too eager to sign a contract with someone involved in a salacious scandal.”
Her words were like a physical blow. Jameson had always known that as queen, and ruling monarch, she had worries and responsibilities he could never comprehend. But she was still his grandmother, and his grandfather had adored her. She and Jameson weren’t close, but the knowledge of his grandfather’s feelings for her had imbued her in his eyes with a warm, loving glow she hadn’t been entitled to.
Marina was ruthless. He needed to remember that.
“This is important for all of us, Jameson. I want you to take over John’s charitable portfolio and continue overseeing his award. I know your grandfather would’ve liked nothing more. But I will not let you or anyone else ruin this celebration. Focus on your duties. And stay away from that American!”
“HEY!”
Jameson glanced up from his desk to find Dani standing in his doorway. He’d seen the cars and heard the music when he drove past the barn an hour ago. Considering what had happened during his meeting with the queen—and his resulting piss-poor mood—he hadn’t wanted to disturb her, so he’d continued to the main house and holed up in his office.
“I was looking for you,” she said, crossing her arms and leaning against the jamb. “I thought you’d stop by on your way home.”
“I was tired. And I could tell you were still working.” He gave her a thorough once-over. Even in black leggings and a cutoff T-shirt, with no makeup and her hair in a ponytail, she was radiant. But then, she always struck him as stunning. “You look good.”
She rolled her eyes. “Right.”
He stood. “You do.”
“Thanks. But don’t get too close,” she said, when he came around the desk. “I’m all hot and sweaty.”
“I can see that. Half the work is done for me.”
Her laughter turned into a sigh when he pulled her into his arms for a kiss. He’d heard his grandmother’s warning, but she’d misunderstood the situation. What he and Dani had was casual. They weren’t hurting anyone. She wasn’t a danger to the monarchy. Jameson could fulfill his duties and continue seeing Dani. They’d just have to be more careful.
“Mmmm, do I get this after all of my rehearsals?”
He led her over to the sofa and pulled her onto his lap. “I’d be happy to oblige.”
She swept a lock of hair off his forehead. “How was your meeting with the queen? Did it go well?”
“I wouldn’t say ‘well.’” He dropped his gaze and picked at a stray thread on her thigh. “It wasn’t what I expected.”
“In what way?”
He should tell her. About the pictures and Marina’s warning that she could have them published in the States. But this was his fault. Dani hadn’t done anything wrong. Marina had made this threat because of him. It was his issue. He’d handle it and keep her safe.
“I thought it was something new, but it was more talk about the celebration.”
“Why is she sweating you so hard?”
