Page 127 of Rags to Royals

“I really liked this past weekend,” he says. “When we didn’t have to sneak around. When I could touch you and kiss you in public. Where everyone not only knew we were together, but they were thrilled for us.”

My chest feels tight. “Yeah, me too.”

And I mean it so much that it’s scary.

“Can I show you something?” he asks, pulling his phone out.

“Of course.” I sit forward in my chair.

He opens a screen and holds it out to show me. It’s a text message. The top of the screen says TORIN.

Fiona told me what you’re up to. Sounds amazing. Let me know if you need anything.

I look up at him. He’s smiling. “Fiona told Torin about the moms’ community?”

He nods. “And the foundation.” He taps on his phone screen and holds it out again.

This message is from Abigail.

Torin told me your news but Charlie had already filled me in! Amazing!

I look up and his smile is bright.

He taps again and then turns the phone.

LINNEA is at the top of the screen now.

I can’t wait to hear more! I’m at your disposal to help in any way I can! Jonah too.

“I was just thinking that she could be a fantastic resource!” I say.

He grins. “Definitely. We’ll talk to her soon.”

He pulls up another message.

ASTRID:Wow. Knew you were more than a pretty face. Way to go!

I look up at him, my brows up. “Really? You’re showing me texts from yourfiancée?”

He narrows his eyes playfully. “Watch it, little witch. I will spank you right here.”

Of course, my body responds to that instantly. But I say, “You’rethe one getting texts from hot, single girls.”

He leans over and tips my chin up. “I’m getting texts from family andfriends.”

I smile up at him. “I know. And I’m really happy for you.Thisis what should be happening. I’m so glad they all know.”

He sits back and turns the phone again.

DECLAN:Nice work. Let me know what I can do to get involved.

My eyes are wide when I look up. “Wow. That’s…” Suddenly I’m choked up.Thisis what I wanted for him. At least in part.I want people to know what he’s doing, and I want him to be praised for it. Especially from the people he most admires. I sniff and say, “With Declan’s help, you won’t have to fundraise at all.”

Cian chuckles and I can see how much this all means to him. “But I still will. All those other rich fuckers need to give their money away.”

I laugh.

He sobers slightly and taps once more, turning the phone.

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