Malia and Charles returned to the palace in silence. As they neared, a knot grew in Malia's stomach. She feared that accusations and scandal awaited them, that their reputations would be shot. But no one took notice as they crossed the open palace gate and strolled inside. No one cared.
They stood in the grand foyer.
“Here we are, safe and sound," Malia said and started off—to where she did not know—just somewhere away to be alone. Charles grabbed her wrist.
“Malia, I want to say something to you," Charles said.
She waited.
“A lot happened to us in the past day," he said.
“Yes, it did," Malia said.
“I'm glad for it. For all of it."
“So am I, Charles."
They shared a tender moment that withered as reality reasserted itself.
“Is that all you wanted to say?" Malia asked.
He stutte
