Chapter 436

"I'm glad you are here." Christian said to John and Marcus at dinner that evening. "I hope your accommodations are comfortable."

"Are you kidding? We are staying at a palace. I couldn't imagine better accommodations." John said with a hearty laugh. After the main course and dessert, Christian asked them to join him in the study for a drink. They obliged.

After the typical chit chat, Christian decided to get to the point.

"I would like to offer you a home here. Near us. I originally thought maybe Ireland or Scotland but I think Nora would like you closer. I'd like to offer you Frogmore cottage. It's on the grounds of Windsor, it's quaint and secluded. More private. There are 5 bedrooms and a lovely kitchen. It's yours if you'd like to relocate." Christian said. John sat quietly for a moment and took in what he was saying.

"You're giving me a five bedroom home on the estate of a castle?" He asked.

"Yes. Well, if it won't suit you, I can arrange a different property perhaps. Alex is never at his home at Clarence House and mother usually stays at the palace here instead of Kensington." Christian began.

"Stop, please. No need." John said. He stood up and walked over to Christian, reaching out for a hug.

"I'm grateful for the offer and it's more, this is all more, than I ever imagined for my daughter and my son and my self. Thank you." He said. Nora's eyes welled with tears.

"I know she loves you and would want you close. And I am so happy to make that happen for you." Christian said.

"We are so lucky to have you in our lives." John said. Marcus smiled and gave his sister a hug.

Later that night, Nora got into bed and wrapped her arms around Christian.

"Thank you." She said.

"For what?" He asked, kissing her head.

"For loving me." She said.

"But it's so easy to do." He said. She smiled and looked at him. "Such a young man with such character and goodness." She said.

"I just saw you and knew that you were what I wanted. That you were going to be what completed me." He said.

"That's exactly what I mean." She said, drifting off to sleep. He smiled and pulled her tighter into his arms and fell asleep as well.

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The next day, Nora woke up to an empty bed. Christian had to work and it always felt so lonely waking up in the palace alone. She walked to the bathroom and brushed her teeth. All of a sudden, a wave of nausea hit her like a wall. She rushed to the toilet and threw up violently. When the heaving finally stopped, she sat by the toilet and gathered her wits. Was she sick? The flu? She was thankful for the cool toilet bowl. She looked over and saw her box of tampons in her bag by the sink. When was her last period? She couldn't remember. Panic began to wash over her. "Oh shit." She said out loud.