Page 11 of Jack

“That surprises me. A beautiful young woman with the skills you possess would have a lot of men after her.”

“Thank you for the compliment, but unfortunately, men find strong women intimidating.”

“Ah, I see. Well, you don’t have to tell me of the difficulties there, my dear. But let me give you a piece of unsolicited advice from someone who has a highly demanding job and a position of authority. When you meet the right man, he won’t see your strength as a reflection of his masculinity. He’ll stand beside you and applaud your triumphs and bask in the light you share with him. That is when you know you have a man worthy of you.”

“You’re right. Thank you, and I’ll hold out for that man.”

“Make sure you do. My daughter let the man she loved go because she felt he wasn’t worthy of her position and she regrets it, but he’s happier now than he’s ever been. I’m glad for him but sad for my child.”

“That’s sad.”

“It is, and I do hope what happens in the safe room stays in the safe room.”

“Of course.”

A knock followed, and Astrid stood putting herself between the Queen and the door. “Who is it?”

“It’s Jack.”

“I need to be sure. What colour bikini was I wearing on the beach?” She grinned at the chuckle from behind her.

“Green, like an emerald.”

Astrid opened the door and saw Jack standing with Gunner and Blake. “Is everything secure now?”

“Yes.” He turned to the Queen. “Ma’am, it seems an overeager member of the paparazzi tried to climb the fence that links the beach. He’s been arrested, and we’ll secure more guards to that area of the site.”

“Thank you, Jack.”

The Queen was standing beside Astrid now, and her posture was straight and tall and perfectly regal.

“Blake will lead you back to your rooms where he and Gunner will remain on duty throughout the night.”

She curtsied as the Queen faced her. “I’ll see you in the morning, Astrid.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

She stayed still as Blake and Gunner led the Queen away, reflecting on her candid glimpse into the life of the woman who had the most powerful job in the world yet still managed to maintain a seemingly happy marriage. Maybe there was a man out there who would appreciate her strength, but much as she wanted it to be Jack, she knew it wasn’t to be.

Taking a deep breath, she faced him. “I’m sorry I overreacted.”