#chapter49

“Henry?” A quiet little voice broke through his thoughts. His blue eyes turned to lock in Adalyn’s green orbs staring up at him sleepily. She stretched out her body and snuggled into the pillow as if she was not quite ready to get up.

Harry leaned in and pressed his lips against Addy’s. “Good morning beautiful.” Addy’s hand snaked around the prince’s neck to pull him back down to her lips. “Where are you going so quickly?” She breathed across his lips.

“Mmm I am never leaving this bed with you.” Harry teased as his hand traveled down along her back. “At least for a few more hours.”

Helping Adalyn put her winter coat on; Harry tried his best to drag out their last few minutes together. Turning around he caught a glimpse of the necklace Harry had given Adalyn. A proud smile crept upon his lips seeing her wearing his gift. “It looks great on you.” Adalyn lowered her gaze in slight embarrassment feeling the warm crimson red flush upon her cheeks.

“I want to wear it all the time… it reminds me of those blue eyes of yours and makes me feel that we aren’t so far apart when I look at it.” A blushing Adalyn confessed whole heartedly.

“I love that you told me that.” He placed his hands on Addy’s head and pulled her closer to him so he could press his lips down gently to her forehead. “I want to always hear what you are thinking.” Adalyn’s green eyes lifted to holding the prince’s gaze hostage. “Even if it scares you to tell me. We have to be more open with one another Addy. We keep falling back into a rut where we shut the other out and look where it brought us this time.”

“I completely agree…” Her gaze averted away from Harry’s concentrated stare. “I uh…” Adalyn paused and closed her eyes. “Even though Jake’s dead, he is still very real to me.”

“I understand that more than you think.” He could see the tears nearly brimming over in Adalyn’s eyes. “Come here, love.” Harry engulfed Addy into a warm embrace, gently pushing her head down onto his chest. “You have been through so much lately, none of which you deserve. It’s going to take time to feel yourself again, but I am not going anywhere. You hear me?”

Adalyn wrapped her arms around the prince tighter closing her eyes as if she was making herself believe Harry’s words. “I don’t know what to say, other than I love you.”

Harry took in a deep sigh and just stood there holding Adalyn in the entrance way. Gently swaying back and forth, the couple relished in the last few moments of their private time together before they parted their ways for a while. The silence was comforting as Addy closed her eyes and listened to Harry’s slowly beating heart.

“Sir?” Addy’s body tensed becoming startled hearing an unfamiliar voice from behind her.

Harry’s brow furrowed angrily seeing how startled Adalyn was. His eyes lifted to find Luther’s temporary replacement, Ryan, in his apartment standing behind the couple. A look of anger grew upon the prince’s face not being pleased with how Ryan presented himself so abruptly.

Ryan had done this multiple times to Harry and the prince was growing tired of it. He would show up unannounced in Harry’s private flat that he had already requested be off limits other than in cases of emergency. Luther and Harry had an understanding that once his apartment was cleared, he could be left alone to be with Adalyn or his visitors. Ryan and Harry had yet to figure out their own boundaries, but it only made Harry miss Luther more.

“We need to go.” Ryan simply stated and stood there despite witnessing the anger placed on the prince’s face.

“We go when I say we go. Do not sneak up on her like that again.” Harry’s voice was livid making Addy lift her head to see creases formed in anger across his forehead.

Gently rubbing down his back, Addy pressed a kiss to cheek to gain the prince’s attention. “I’m fine.” He shook his head slowly showing Adalyn that he was still not pleased. Taking it upon herself she turned and politely asked the man to give them a little more time. “If you could just give us a few more minutes, I haven’t seen Harry in a while.”

“Sorry. We are ready to go now.” Ryan continued to stand there.

Harry had enough. He took a step forward and got right in Ryan’s face. “You address her as ma’am or Miss Mackenzie, got it?” Harry was practically breathing down Ryan’s neck. “Get the hell out of here and I will come when I bloody well want to.”

“Sir.” Ryan tried to speak.

“No. You have pissed me off right before I have to say goodbye to my girl so if you want to keep your job I suggest you apologize to her and leave me be with my girlfriend.” Adalyn crossed her arms with a lowered head trying not to look at the situation unfolding in front of her. She never liked seeing Harry in this state.

Ryan looked over Harry’s shoulder at Adalyn. “I am sorry Miss Mackenzie for interrupting your time together.” Without another word, Ryan turned and quickly left the apartment.

Harry turned around wearing a smug smile that faded as he saw Adalyn’s somber expression. Closing in the distance between them Harry could not get Adalyn to look at him as she averted his gaze. “Come on babe.” He wrapped his arms around her. “Look at me.”

“No.” She stubbornly welcomed his embrace. “I’m not going to have the last thing I see of you is that angry face.”

“But he-”

“No.” Addy cut off Harry’s explanation. “Yes, he startled me. But you know I hate it when people call me Miss Mackenzie and there was no need for you to go all crazy on him.” Addy’s bottom lip pouted out.

Harry released a deep sigh. “I did it for you.” He confessed.

“No, Harry. You did it for yourself. You clearly have an issue with that man.” Addy finally turned her green eyes towards him. “Do not use me as an excuse for your own personal vendetta.”

“Damn it, Addy. I AM NOT!” He raised his voice at her and regretted it in that very same second. Adalyn shook her head and pushed herself away from Harry’s arms. Grabbing her bag she swung the door open and started briskly walking out.

“ADDY!” He yelled after her and released a frustrated groan. “Get back here!” But Addy did not slow down her pace making Harry run after her.

“Addy… stop.” He caught up and gently grabbed Addy’s wrist to turn her around. Her green eyes flashed back towards him. “Please….” Harry begged her to stop.

“I didn’t want to leave like this, Henry.” A disgusted look grew on her face. “It was the last thing I wanted.”

“I am so sorry.” Harry’s hand slid from her wrist to her fingers and gently tugged on it to see if Addy would come to him. “I should not have raised my voice at you.”

How could she not forgive those deep blue eyes that were staring right into her. Sighing deeply, Addy took a step forward and reached out to cup his cheek. “We have to be better at this, at communicating and it not ending in a fight or we won’t last Harry.” He bowed his head into her hand relishing in the feeling it gave him as he listened to her words.

“I hate it.” He closed his eyes. “When we argue.”

“I am getting tired of it.” Addy took a step closer and wrapped her arms around the prince. Resting her head on his chest Addy breathed out. “Maybe this break with our families will be a good thing.”

“Addy… I just got you back.” Harry was quick to reply. Hearing the doubt in her voice scared the prince.

“That’s the problem, Harry. I was here all along, but you didn’t see me.” The words hit Harry like a ton of bricks. Addy was completely right.

“Hey….” Her quiet voice coaxed him out of his thoughts. “It will only be a few days and you will be home and I will be home.”

“Addy. I’m sorry for it all.”

“Don’t be like that.” Addy reached up and played with tufts of his ginger hair. “I wish you could come with me. It’s so peaceful up there.” His smile mirrored Addy’s. “Quiet. Away from all what’s going on up here…” She gently tapped his temple before standing up on her tippy toes and kissing it softly.

Before her lips could travel further, Harry turned her chin with his finger and connected his lips with Addy’s. His lips pressed down harder as his hand held Addy’s neck gently in place. Addy broke her lips off for a second, gasping for a breath.

“I’m not done with those lips.” Harry smiled and attacked them before she could get in another breath.

After an impromptu make out session. Harry grabbed his girlfriend’s hand and led her through the palace towards an awaiting car. “A good kisser and a gentlemen. Why I think I may have hit the jackpot.” Addy leaned in and rubbed Harry’s arm up and down making a smile appear on his lips.

Harry opened the trunk of the car and tossed her bag in. “Great kisser Addy. Great.” He pulled Adalyn into him hard feeling her hands brace herself against his chest.

“I will be the judge of that.” Adalyn leaned in and pressed her lips against Harry’s briefly. Breaking off his lips too soon for the prince and stepped away giggling.

“Hey! You can’t leave without me knowing the answer.” Harry lifted his hands up in the air.

“Goodbye, Henry.” Addy came back and received a tight hug.

“I can’t for you to come with me one day.” Harry mumbled into her ear. “I love you.”

“One day.” She squeezed him hard before releasing the prince.

“Let me know when you get there safely.” Harry opened the car door regretfully.

“I will.” Addy climbed into the back seat and shut the door, but quickly rolled down the window.

“Seat belt.” Harry ordered her with a wink.

Click.

“Happy?” She teased him before the silence turned their goodbye to a serious note. “Just a few days right?” “Just a few days.” Harry leaned in through the window and captured her lips one more time. “Goodbye, love.”

“Henry?” The prince froze inches from her face to look into Addy’s green eyes.

“Yes love?”

“What I said earlier….” She started to speak but was quickly interrupted by the prince.

“No. Don’t take it back.” A smile formed on his lips. “I asked you to tell me what you are thinking and I cannot be and I won’t be mad at that.” The prince reassured Adalyn.

“Then let me say what’s on my mind now… I love you Henry Wales.” A giddy smile graced her lips.

“I love you more, Adalyn Mackenzie.”

“Can you at least look happy Harry? It’s Christmas!” Kate nudged her brother in law.

Harry’s eyes peeled off the awaiting crowd that was eagerly waiting for them at St. Mary’s Magdalene church. It was a tradition for all the royals to attend a church service here Christmas morning. Staring into Kate’s chocolate brown eyes he forced a smile.

“That’s better.” Kate giggled in response before climbing out of the vehicle assisted by William.

Harry took a quick moment to compose himself and place a mask on his face to hide his unhappiness at the fact he had to do this yet again. There was no doubt in his mind that he would get asked about Adalyn. Even at engagements she was the basis of most of the questions asked by the paparazzi.

Stepping out of the car, the prince buttoned up his coat and joined the rest of their family as they walked down the path towards the church. The prince found himself walking beside his cousin Zara and her husband Mike behind Kate and William. Within a matter of seconds, the photographers were calling out his name and Addy’s.

Where is Adalyn, Harry? Are you two spending Christmas together? Is Adalyn coming to Sandringham for the holidays?

Harry kept his head lowered and his attention on his conversation with his cousin Zara, not giving them an ounce of any answers to their questions. Walking into the walls of the church he released a breath he felt like he was holding, feeling relief course through him and calm him.

He took his assigned seat next to Kate and settled into it. Feeling his phone vibrate in his pocket, Harry pulled it out to see a message from Addy pop up. With a growing smile he unlocked his phone and read it.

Hi my love. Where did that charming smile go to? It’s Christmas! Smile, be happy. Because I would give anything to be with you right now xx Now what do I have to do to make you smile?

Addy must have been watching them walk into the church. Harry felt Kate’s eyes on him as he peeked up at her from his phone. “Say hi to Addy and Merry Christmas from us.”

“How did you know- ?” Harry started to ask.

“Only one person can make you smile like that Harry.” Kate winked and then turned her head forward, staring up at the front of the church as the service began. Harry quickly typed his reply and put his phone away with that same smile plastered on his face.

Embarking from the church, Harry was a different man. He was all smiles and happy to see the people. The family always spent a little time speaking to the well wishers  once they left the church. Harry was always keen to walk up to anyone with kids or animals. Spotting a dog wearing a coat similar to what Addy had gotten Chance, Harry walked up to them and kneeled to pet the excited pup.

“Well hello there.” The dog was dancing in circles and wagging his tail happily receiving pets from the prince.

“Merry Christmas Prince Harry!” The owner wished the prince well.

“Thank you. What is your dog’s name? My girl- ” Harry caught himself before speaking another word. His eyes locked with the elderly woman whose eyes were wide in surprise at meeting him.

She leaned in and whispered. “It’s ok, I won’t tell them what you said.”

Harry laughed nervously and decided that there was no harm in what he was going to say. “Addy and I got our own dog a coat just like this one. He has been quiet spoiled this Christmas.”

“Peanut, loves his! How is she doing?” The woman was genuine in her questioning with sincerity smeared across her face.

Harry knew exactly what she was asking. How was Addy coping with all that had happened? The story had been front-page news with nearly everyone making their thoughts known on the matter. “Well, thank you.” He responded quickly not wanting to get into it further. “Have a Merry Christmas and stay warm in this dreadful weather.”

The prince moved down the line shaking hands and taking small gifts that were offered to him. A small little boy was wearing a Harry Potter hat and scarf that was eagerly watching the prince carefully.

“What is your name?” The prince crouched down to the child’s level and gently shook his hand.

“Max.” The boy shied away.

“I like your hat. Have you seen all the movies?” Harry spent a few more minutes talking to the little boy.

The Royal family had left the church grounds and completed all their Christmas Day traditions. Having had a long day, all the younger cousins decided to relax and have a few drinks together.

Harry leaned back into the chair taking a sip of his beer that Zara had just handed to him. Looking around the room, seeing all of his relatives with their significant others only made Harry miss Adalyn even more. It was Christmas night and their day had been filled with family events and outings making this relaxing time well worth the wait.

It had been such a long time since all of his cousins were able to be in one room together. Being on base had definitely taken its toll on his other familial relationships as of late.

“So… Harry.” Zara beckoned his name. “Tell us all about Adalyn. We are dying to meet her.”

“Yeah, why haven’t we yet?” Eugenie piped in as she eagerly leaned in.

Harry shook his head with a big grin. “Well… she is at her grand parents over Christmas. That’s why she is not here.” He hoped that would end the inquisitions, but thanks to Kate, they did not.

“She is so lovely. We absolutely adore her.” Kate chimed in as Harry’s head swiveled into her view. “They are very cute together, honestly it’s so adorable.” She continued to gush to Zara who was sitting next to her while Harry nearly downed his beer.

“Awe! Has my baby cousin finally met the one?!” Zara turned to wink at Harry, but was half serious.

“He better have after what she went through.” Beatrice spoke loud enough for every one to hear. Not realizing that she said what was in her head, Bea quickly apologized. “I am so sorry… I didn’t think I-”

“Bea, it’s fine.” Harry had only talked to his immediate family and grandparents about everything that had happened, so naturally the rest of his family was curious to know the truth.

“I haven’t told you guys much about her because she…we.” Harry corrected himself. “Have been through a lot these last few months and honestly was not entirely sure what would happen to us.” Harry frowned as the memory of it all hit him. “We have struggled a bit because of it and I don’t think it’s best to overwhelm her more at this point with meeting all you unhinged people.” He teased with a light chuckle.

“We all understand, Harry.” Zara smiled warmly at him. “The media frenzy around you two as a couple has been….”

“Insane.” Will interrupted and locked eyes with Harry.

“God, all the stories about her relationship with that stalker guy. Has she read any of them?” Eugenie shifted in her seat, displaying a concerned look.

“I won’t let her.” It was such a surprise to everyone else that Harry had read every single one of them. He did so so he knew exactly what reporter was writing what in order to keep his eye out for them. The media backlash over what occurred was next level. It had been why Harry had been keen on staying out of the media’s grasp for the next little while with his relationship, until it died down. Stories after stories and speculations of what happened were constantly being written. Harry was even being asked to comment on them by reporters at his engagements, which he of course refused to. The royal family had never put out a statement other than wishing Luther a speedy recovery.

“I think it’s so sweet how protective you are of those you love, Harry. But, you can’t protect her from everything. She is in this crazy life with you and needs to learn how to handle it on her own.” Eugenie’s unwarranted advice did not sit well with Harry.

“Eugenie. You have no idea what you are talking about.” Harry protested making the room fall into an uncomfortable silence.

“Yeah, Harry I do.” She was not going to back down even after Jack nudged her to stop pushing Harry.

“I am not getting into this right now. I really don’t care if you ridicule me for how I protect people in my life. I won’t let them hurt anyone like how they hurt...” Harry couldn’t say it, but Eugenie did it for him.

“Your mother?”

Harry shook his head slowly in disappointment at Eugenie as the frustration and anger became too overwhelming for him to handle. He stood up and walked out of the room in silence before he said anything else he would regret.

“Why would you say that to him?” Kate turned towards Eugenie and become very defensive on behalf of Harry. “You do not understand what it’s like to come into this life being an outsider and having to learn what to do and what not to do while being constantly harassed and photographed. Addy has never said a word to the press and they, as a couple, with permission from gran” she matter of factly stated before continuing, “released a joint statement together because Harry did not know how else to protect her when some crazy photographers ambushed Addy using her rescue. Then when he does, her ex goes crazy and kidnaps her after terrorizing her and Harry for months on end. So if he feels the need to protect her after all they have been through, then let him do it.” Kate was fuming by the end of her speech.

“Kate… I’m sorry. It’s not what I meant.” Eugenie was trying to back track.

Zara slowly got up and walked in the direction of where Harry left, leaving Kate and Eugenie’s little spat. Walking around, she found Harry out on a balcony alone.

“Hey… little cousin.” She didn’t want to spook Harry. Turning around she received a set of soft blue eyes looking back at her.

“Hey, Zara.” His cousin placed a hand on his back and gently rubbed it. “Sorry, I just don’t feel the need to feel judged by own family about what happened.”

“I think Eugenie doesn’t fully understand what happened, Harry. I think her intentions were to help you realize that nothing was your fault and that you cannot always be there to protect Adalyn.” Zara was trying to be the voice of reason.

“You miss her don’t you?” She asked after hearing Harry release a deep sigh.

“More than you know.” Harry looked down over the balcony. “I wasn’t being the best boyfriend to her afterwards… and we are just getting back on track.” His head swiveled to lock eyes with Zara. “I don’t think I could handle actually losing her.”

Harry’s phone started to buzz making him dig into his pocket and pulling it out to reveal a picture of Adalyn. “Wanna meet her now?” He flashed Zara the phone seeing that Addy was trying to facetime Harry.

“Yes!” An over excited Zara stepped in beside Harry as he answered the call. Adalyn was curled up in her bed wearing one of Harry’s sweaters. He probably should have warned Adalyn, but didn’t think she would really care.

“Hey babe, you look comfy.” He laughed as Addy pulled up his sweater up passed her neck.

“I am! So is Chance and Willow.” Addy angled the camera down to show Harry the two dogs that were snuggled up beside one another.

“Hi Adalyn! I’m Zara.” She waved through the camera at Harry’s girlfriend.

“Hi, Zara!” Addy giggled lightly. “Sorry to be meeting you like this. How’s your Christmas been?”

“It’s been great having all the family together. But, I know a certain someone has missed you quite a bit.” Zara teased Harry as Addy laughed through the camera.

“Well I think Chance and I have missed him more.” She replied with a warm smile.

“Did Chance open my present?” Harry waited for the delayed response as Addy nodded her head.

“Yeah, he loves his little coat and booties, love.” She was smiling from ear to ear, happy that she was finally able to see Harry.

“I cannot wait to meet you, Adalyn. Harry has told me a lot about you. After the holidays, you two should come out to our place for the weekend.” Zara patted Harry’s back knowing that he was going to protest the invitation.

“I would love that, Zara!” Addy yawned and rubbed her tired eyes.

“You should get some sleep, gorgeous.” Harry could tell that Addy was fading quickly. “Got a big day tomorrow?”

“I just wanted to say Merry Christmas in person. Well as in person as I can get!” Adalyn chuckled lightly. “No, I think I will take the dogs out for a long walk at least. We can talk more then?”

“Merry Christmas Addy.” Harry beamed proudly beside Zara. “Yeah, I should be around at some point at least. Get some rest, you can call if you need me, love.” Harry reassured his girlfriend.

“Goodnight, Henry.” She waved before blowing a kiss through the screen. “It was nice meeting you Zara. Have a good night!”

“You two, Addy!”

“Love you, babe.”

“Love you.” Addy blew one last kiss before hanging up.

“Awe, Harry! She calls you Henry?!” Zara placed her hands together and practically squealed.

“Ya… she does sometimes.” Harry started to become embarrassed. “God I miss her.”

“Well…” Zara swayed lightly in her stance. “You said you have not been the best boyfriend lately, but what better way to surprise someone by showing up when they least expect it?”

“Have I ever told you that you are my favourite cousin?” Harry pulled Zara into a warm embrace. “I can’t wait for you to meet her, Zara. I think you two will get along well.”

“I am serious about that offer to come for a weekend, Harry.” Zara squeezed his body tighter.

“Thank you. I will speak with Addy and figure out a date.” He released his cousin from his arms. “I need to make a quick phone call, will meet you back in there?”

“Yeah, I will check if Eugenie has her head still stuck up her ass.” Zara chuckled as she walked away.

Harry dug out his phone and quickly phoned a contact. “Hello, Carlson? Sorry I know it’s late.”