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It doesn’t matter. You know what you have to do.
“Thank you,” she managed through gritted teeth.
“Your presence brought the attention of... well, let’s just say, anewsegment of society, to a cause that was meaningful to my John, and for that, I’m grateful.”
A new segment of society? Which one would that be?
Don’t cause a scene.
“It’s an important issue. We all have a part to play.”
The queen finally “gifted” Dani with the full force of her scrutiny. “Excellent point. We all have a part to play. Including Jameson. This week was significant for him, as well.”
“He was a gracious host”—eventually!—“and he’s done a wonderful job representing your family.”
“Indeed. We have big plans for his future.”
Dani pursed her lips. This was more than casual chitchat.
“I don’t know why you’re telling me this, ma’am.”
“Oh, I think you do. You’ve managed to not get caught again, but any thoughts the two of you have about prolonging this entanglement need to end now.”
Get caught?
Again?
Dani briefly eyed Jameson, who, like the guards in the furry black hats stationed outside the palace, stood still and quiet.
Except for the muscle ticking furiously in his jaw.
“With all due deference and respect, you can’t tell me who I can be involved with or how to live my life.”
The queen sighed and her perfect posture appeared to relax. Slightly. “You may not believe this, but I admire you. You’re a hard worker, with apparent musical talent and a head for business.”
Dani’s surprise must’ve shown on her face because Marina said, “Oh, yes, I know about your company. And I know you’re on the precipice of turning it into a very successful venture. You must understand that when you’re in charge, you have to make the best decision for your organization, even if it’s unpopular. You are a beautiful woman, adored by millions. You can have your choice of anyone or anything in the world.”
The queen straightened, and that brief moment of kinship disappeared from her expression.
“But not Jameson. Not this family. I won’t allow it.”
“Grandmother! That’s enough!”
Louisa gasped. “Sir! You forget yourself!”
But Dani barely took notice of Jameson’s attempt to defend her. The queen’s harsh words rocketed her back to her childhood, mired in feelings of being unwanted, unloved, and uncared for after Nana’s death.
We don’t have room.
You can stay here a week but then you need to move on.
I can let you have this couch. What you gonna let me have?
Bile burned the back of her throat. What was so wrong with her?
She’d played stages and venues across the globe. She had money, accolades, and awards. Women wanted to be her. Men wanted to fuck her. Everyone knew her name.
But what did any of that matter when she was still being rejected?
