Free Royal Love by John Simpson Page A

consort or some such thing. Since we’ve never had this happen before, I suppose it would be all new ground.”
    “What if Darren had dual citizenship?”
    “Then it would be up to the lawyers to figure it out. I really haven’t a clue. If he makes you happy and vice versa, I can’t think of a single objection. How does my cousin feel about this?”
    “If you mean David, I think he likes me and won’t put up a fuss. And with the wedding coming up, Darren’s mother will get a chance to know me a little better.”
    “Very well. I’ll let Lord Donnelly know that you’ll be representing the monarchy and Britain at the wedding. Do behave, and don’t embarrass the Crown, all right?”
    “Of course!” Michael smiled. “I’ll take my leave, then, unless you have something you’d like to discuss, Your Majesty?”
    “No, it’s always a pleasure to see you, Michael. Give my regards to Darren.”
    Michael shook the king’s hand, bowed, and left. He practically flew down the palace hallways as he headed for the carport. When he arrived at Winfield House, he had to wait until Darren had finished his military duties. Darren took a break and met Michael in the living room.
    “I’ve got some interesting news for you,” Michael said.
    “Really, what?”
    “I’ve just come from the king, and I will be representing the Crown at your mother’s wedding. So, that gives me an official role in Washington in addition to the role of your boyfriend.”
    “That’s great news! Is this something special for you?” Darren asked.
    “Well, yes. I’ve never represented the king before. I’m so pleased the first time will be at your mother’s wedding.”
    “I’ll let Uncle David know, just in case.”
    “Good. I’m also to deliver the king’s wedding gift. If you can’t arrange a private plane for us, I’ll get one of the royal fleet aircraft to take us all over and back.”
    “That’s one thing you don’t have to worry about. My mother will send an Air Force jet for us. Security is still a key concern for all of us, and she won’t allow us to travel any other way. Now I have to get back to my duties. I’m on for another three hours. Good to see you, babe.”
    “Likewise.”
    They kissed, and Michael left as Darren returned to the security center.
     
     
    T HAT NIGHT at dinner, Darren broke the news.
    “Uncles, Prince Michael will be coming to the wedding in two capacities. He’ll be my date, of course, but he’ll also represent the Crown. He’s thrilled about that as well as about traveling with us.”
    “Wonderful. That actually gives him a protocol role at the wedding. Does the king know how serious you two have become?”
    “Yes, and he’s happy for us. His only worry was you, Uncle David. Michael told the king that he thought you liked him and that there was nothing to be concerned about. Was he right?”
    “Absolutely. Shane and I think he’s a handsome young man who has the right material to fit in with this crazy family. When are you seeing him again?”
    “Not sure. We didn’t set a definite time yet. But as you know, we talk everyday by phone and text.”
    “Are you going to marry this guy?” Jack asked.
    The room went silent. Shane shot a disapproving look at Jack, but David just sighed.
    “Actually, we haven’t discussed things that far in the future. For now, we’re just happy to be boyfriends.”
    “That’s cool. I was just curious.”
    “Sometimes you’re too curious, Jack,” Shane said.
    “What? It’s not like I asked if the prince has a nice dick or something!”
    Shane got up, grabbed Jack by the ear, and removed him from the table. David almost spoke up, but he knew Shane was right to discipline Jack. Jack had been off the streets long enough to stop talking like a punk.
    “Ouch, Daddy, that hurts,” Jack said as Shane took him upstairs to his room.
    “Have you ever been spanked before?” Shane asked.
    “Spanked? Are you kidding? I’m too old for that.”
    “No, in