Page 74 of A Royal Obligation

His mouth pulled up in a lovesick grin when he heard Jules approaching. His breath caught in his throat when she walked through the rows of bookshelves wearing a beautiful, wine-colored dress that reminded him of the one she wore to the ball.

“You are so beautiful, my love,” he said as he hugged her.

“You’re not too shabby yourself.” She swatted at his arm with a playful grin. “You wanted to talk about some wedding plans?”

“Yes. I have just the person to help us. Or should I say ... people.”

As he spoke, Jules’s parents snuck up behind her wrapping her in a giant bear hug. She turned around and squealed when she saw them.

“What! How? When did you all get here?”

“He’s had this surprise planned since he proposed,” her mom said.

“It’s a good thing you said yes to him, otherwise this would be awkward.” Her dad shrugged, earning a look from his wife.

“You’re the best,” Jules exclaimed as she planted a kiss on Barrett’s cheek.

Barrett gave her parents each a quick hug before they walked over to the table. “Let’s get started. I have binders on the table with options for things like tablecloth and napkin selections, and floral arrangements. I want you to have everything you want.”

The men sat there as Jules and her mom went through all of the optionsoohingandaahingover the large variety of choices.

Partway through the day, Jules grabbed his hand and pulled him aside. “Are you sure this isn’t too much?” She fidgeted with her fingers. “I don’t want to assume what your financial situation is like after abdicating and you very well know what my family’s situation is like.”

He ran his hand over her hair, smoothing it. He caressed her cheek with the back of his hand and looked at her with adoration. “I love that you would even think to worry about that. I should’ve told you all this already, but I spoke with my father and brother. I will still hold the title of prince, but will not be afforded any decisions in royal matters. However, I still have access to the family funds which will be more than enough for us to live extremely comfortably all our lives and take care of your family.” He stroked her arms. “And for you to still start the afterschool program you’ve dreamed of.”

“How did you know—”

“As they always tell us, the staff really does know everything.”

Jules laughed and threw her arms around his neck.

“And it would be enough to raise a family of our own if we decide that’s in the cards for us,” Barrett added with a distant look in his eye.

“I want it all with you, Barrett. Your diagnosis doesn’t define you. From what we’ve learned from Doctor West, you will be able to live a normal, full life as long as you meet with doctors regularly and follow through with the treatments and lifestyle choices they suggest. If you were to pass it along to a child, we would work through it and get them the same medical treatment.” Jules placed her palm on his cheek. “But we don’t have to make any decisions right now. We can talk about if we want to have children later, but the important thing is that you know I want you. I love every part of you. Your strengths, your weaknesses, your heart, your mind, your imperfections, your diagnosis. All of it makes you who you are, and that is the man I love,” she said, tapping her finger on his chest.

“I love you, you know that? You make the bad times good and the good times even better. I don’t know how I got so lucky. But I sure am glad that you chose me.” He wrapped his arms around her, pulling him to her in a tight hug.

“I’m the lucky one,” she whispered.

He kissed her temple and then smiled at her. “Also, how do you feel about a home in the mountains?”

“I have adored the mountains from the moment I arrived in Wistonia.”

“I’m glad to hear you still feel that way because my father is allowing us to live in a property we own located a few hours away. Rory already agreed to come if you said yes. It’s in the rolling hills of the mountains and the perfect spot to start our life together.” He winked at her and pulled her closer to his side, nuzzling his face against hers.

“How soon did you say we could get married?” She sighed against him, holding his face in her hands.

“Not soon enough.” The desire in his eyes was apparent, a fire burning just for her.

“Aw, man. Get a room, you two. No one wants to see your lovey-dovey eyes,” Liam said as he approached them. “I was going to be kind and offer to give your parents a tour of the palace while you had some alone time together.”

“That’s such a sweet thought. I think we’ll join, too. Thank you, Liam.” Jules wrapped her arms around him. “Or should I say ... brother.”

“Don’t make me change my mind.” Liam rolled his eyes, but Barrett caught the smirk that he tried to hide.

Liam showed her parents around the palace, probably making up loads of exaggerated stories about him, but he didn’t even care. Barrett and Jules walked slowly behind them, hand in hand, as he dreamed about their future together.

“What are you thinking about in that handsome head of yours?” Jules’s sweet voice pulled his gaze to her.

“I’m thinking about you.” He pulled her hand up to his and pressed a tender kiss to the back of it. “About us.”

“I like the sound of that.” She leaned into his touch and her eyes fluttered closed with a sigh. “Tell me more.”

“Once upon a time the fairest maiden in the land met an incognito prince that was hotter than the Hemsworth brothers.” He wiggled his eyebrows, earning a light shove from her.

“How does the story end?” She shot him a teasing look.

He leaned down and brushed his lips over hers in a whisper. “With you and me and a happily ever after.”