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She sank wearily into the couch. “Madeline, please.”
“Of course, Madeline. How are you?”
“I’ve been better.” She scowled, hating that response. “How are you? How is that beautiful Livvy?”
“Exceptional. We’re very blessed to have found each other.”
“I’m thrilled for you.” His words made emotion fill her throat. She and Nolan had found each other, but their happiness seemed further away than ever. Added to the list of issues they already had—sweet Kiera didn’t want to betray her mum’s memory. Madeline couldn’t come between him and Kiera.
“Thank you, and thank you for returning my call. We have your attacker, a Johann Hendry, in custody. He confessed who his ‘boss’ was and we have that man in custody as well. A Harold Tempest.”
“Oh, what a relief.” She relaxed a fraction. She’d never heard either name.
“It is. We’re still riddling out Harold’s motivation for the attack and threats, but I thought you’d feel better knowing they won’t be coming after you or King Nolan.”
“Thank you, Jensen. I feel much better.”
“I’m glad we could help. Give my regards to the king.”
“I will. Goodbye.”
He hung up, and she gripped the phone. What a relief. Now she needed to think about what to do with the media leak. That seemed easier than knowing what to do about Nolan and their relationship. She couldn’t in good conscience pursue him if Kiera wasn’t ready. Maybe when the girl was older …
A heavy weight pushed down on her shoulders. Being without Nolan would be excruciating.
Her phone rang. She glanced at it and then cleared her throat. “Prime Minister Carrera.”
“Ms. Prescott.” His voice was warm, happy even. “I suppose you’ve heard the good news?”
“Good news?” Madeline was at a loss. Had he been informed of the attack this morning and the capture of the man and his boss?
“Albert Gustaff and George Monaco have been persuaded that your emissary mission has been a success and the king is not in league with Naomi Rindlesbacher.”
“Oh.” She wanted to say ‘finally,’ but that meant ... “I guess I’ll leave the castle and come back to my seat in parliament, then.”
“Yes, that’s what we’re all hoping for. Unless … is there any truth to these media rumors? Did you and King Nolan fall in love this past month?”
The breath rushed out of her. She tried for an airy tone. “You sound like a matchmaker, Prime Minister.”
He laughed. “Ah. Forgive me. I would love to see you and the king happy.”
“Can I ask you a question?”
“Of course.” If he was surprised by her lack of answer, he didn’t reveal that.
“What do you feel the queen’s role is?”
“From my understanding, to support the king.” His voice was more interested now, as if she was telling him that Nolan had proposed.
“What would that look like on a daily basis?”
“I’m sorry. I’m not certain what you’re asking.”
“Would the queen attend meetings with parliament or you, possibly hold her own meetings as well, or would she take a more behind-the-scenes approach?”
“Oh. I see.” He paused. “I know Queen Anne was more behind-the-scenes and everyone appreciated her quiet support, organizing parties and banquets, being there for her children and the king, being a face of benevolence and love. Queen Anne, and anyone who married King Nolan would be a Queen Consort, no constitutional power, you see?”
“I appreciate your insight,” she said quickly before he continued. Queen Anne had been perfect in everything and especially as a Queen Consort. Madeline’s dreams of being an active part of running the country were just dreams. “Please have our connections with the media broadcast that the king and I are no longer dating.”
