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“After Oliver’s wedding, of course!” Mother said, looking at me. “I’m ready to enjoy other things in life with Sebastian. And Oliver, I’m certain you will be a king we can all be proud of.”
“This day keeps getting better!” Enzo said, then pulled Aunt Honey close and kissed her passionately.
Clearing my throat, I interrupted the jubilation. “I’m sorry, but I don’t want to be king.”
All eyes turned to me, registering a mixture of shock and confusion.
“Oliver—where is this coming from?” Mother asked.
“I want to dedicate my time to the Royal Academy of Arts,” I answered. “Nothing would give me more joy.” I glanced at Grace. “Are you okay with this?”
She nodded with a smile. “Of course. Whatever makes you happy.”
“Who is going to be king then?” Aunt Honey asked.
“I will,” August said, stepping forward. “I’m giving up my vagabond lifestyle and returning to Verdana to play a larger role in the Monarchy. It’s time. And I will be solely focused on giving the people of Verdana a better life. It would be my honor to be king.”
“I can’t think of anyone better suited for the position,” I said. “Even better than I could ever be. Believe me, this was meant to be.”
August hugged me. “Thank you, I appreciate that. And nothing would give me greater pleasure. As long as we have Mother’s support on this, of course.”
Mother glanced at us both, before smiling and saying, “You have my full support. And I’m sure your father would be very proud.”
Glasses were passed around with dessert wine.
Aunt Honey raised hers first. “To love!”
“To love!” everyone said, clinking glasses.
“It looks like it’s settled then,” Mother said. “The future of Verdana will be in good hands. There’s only one item left on the agenda that would make everything complete.”
“What’s that?” I asked.
“Nothing that should be too complicated,” Mother said. “Now that August is going to be king, we need to find him a suitable wife.”
All eyes slowly turned toward Veronica.
THE END
