Queen of My Country, Queen of My Heart II: New Era of Queens by Alex Tryst

Chapter I: The Heirs Apparent

Alexa Washington looked skyward in her boredom that afternoon and sighed. She had come to the Kentucky Derby as part of a family tradition presumably started generations previously with her great-grandparents King George IV and Queen Victoria. Historians recounted that the king had a great love of horses, which began his annual pilgrimage to the state of Kentucky with his wife and in later years his wife and their daughter Alexa who had become the country's first female ruler since its inception and for whom the current princess was named. However, her reign lasted only days when she laid down her life to save her greatest love, her wife Queen Lara, and their child Faith, mother of the current Alexa.

The second queen, Alexa Georgianna Faith Washington, had officially ruled America since that fateful occasion even though she was merely an infant, allowing her reign to be the longest in American history. Sixty years Alexa's mother had been the queen, and apparently she had inherited the love of the derby from her mother and grandfather, so every year the entire royal family was required to attend the event. Princess Alexa herself did enjoy riding as well, but at her age of twenty-five, she was more interested in activities other than sitting in the royal box pretending to be enthralled in a horse race.

Her eyes shifted around the box at her other family members. There were her parents, Queen Faith and Prince Thomas. Her brother Prince George and his wife Princess Kelly were there engaged in conversation with each other and hardly paying attention to anything going on around them as Kelly rocked their infant daughter Princess Morgan. Her extended royal family of aunts Princess Victoria and Princess Katherine, as well as Katherine's wife Princess Nicole, was chatting amiably about what she couldn't quite discern. Her one uncle, Victoria's husband Prince Edward, was talking with her father, and her twin cousins Princess Lara and Princess Kate were obviously interested in watching people in the crowd and commenting on everyone's formal attire.

Princess Alexa just sighed to herself as she thought how odd it seemed to be there at the Kentucky Derby without her grandmother, The Queen Mother Lara Washington. Lara had passed away only months before, and the idea of being there without her weighed heavily on Alexa's heart. She always had a special relationship with her grandmother. Lara would often tell the heir to the throne stories of her grandmother, Queen Alexa. Her grandmother was a beloved icon in not only the country's history but also the royal family. Although the shortest reign of the Washington dynasty, Queen Alexa had moved the country with her eternal devotion to her wife and child, her benevolent sacrifice the cornerstone of her legacy. The Queen Mother had spent the rest of her life fulfilling what should have been Alexa's destiny in her memory and filling Princess Alexa's head with the grandeur of the woman for whom she was named. Furthermore, her grandmother impressed upon her the duties of following such great leaders as her grandmother and mother.

There were many times over the course of Alexa's life that she would sit with her beloved grandmother and listen to how much alike she was in look and personality to the former queen. The mere gaze Lara would get in her eyes when speaking of her late wife was of such fondness that Alexa cherished being thought of as the closest relative to being like her. However, it was not only her family that conceded the likeness. The media and country constantly compared her to the late ruler. In fact, it was widely thought that Alexa would fulfill her grandmother's legacy as the greatest sovereign the country had ever had. Although at that moment she was just the heir to the throne, with her own mother a powerful yet genteel ruler who brought true aristocracy to the position, while Alexa was seen as the wild child who would one day be queen.

Deciding she needed a change of scenery from her own family, the princess stood from her seat and turned toward her mother. "Mother, I am going to go call on the Adams," she said.

The queen nodded her head. "Very well. Mind your manners and stay out of trouble, will you?" she said with a smile.

"I will try. Meredith said she would be attending, and I have not seen her in a few weeks," she mentioned.

"I know. She has been far too busy with her position at the Musical Arts Foundation. She has not been to any functions at the palace in the last several months. The press is beginning to wonder about your lack of time together."

"Well, seeing us here today then should only make things better," she stated.

"Yes, it should." As Alexa turned to go, her mother took her by the hand. "Button your shirt properly, Lex."

The princess sighed but did as she was told, buttoning the white starched shirt all the way to the top sans the button on the collar. Brushing over the lapels of her formal morning suit jacket, she inquired, "Better?"

"Much. You now look more like the princess you are. Go have fun and give Lord and Lady Adams my regards."

With that Alexa headed out of the booth under escort to where the Adams family box was. The Adams, one of the noble houses, had always been close to the royal family. In fact, her aunt Victoria had married an Adams herself, but thankfully Meredith Adams was far enough removed in relation to Alexa's uncle Edward that the public did not frown upon the relationship they had begun two summers previous. Strolling down to their box, she was greeted by all the passers-by with the utmost respect as they all bowed before her. She just gave a charming smile to all her constituents, as she knew was proper, but her mind was really on seeing her girlfriend.

When she arrived to the place where the Adams always sat, she was greeted with fanfare typical of a royal arrival. Her girlfriend curtsied in her presence before giving her a chaste kiss on the cheek. Alexa returned the affection as she complimented, "You look radiant today, Meredith. Your dress and hat are stunning."

"Thank you, Lex. I must say you look dashing. Suits definitely become you."

Alexa simply smiled at the comment. She hated dressing up, but she knew it was unavoidable. The only consolation was that she was allowed to wear whatever she wanted, so often she and her brother would use the same tailor. That day she was wearing a morning suit, the gray trousers with a white shirt, gray vest, and black coat with tails. Instead of the traditional white tie like her brother was wearing, she opted for pearl buttons to complete her outfit. Of course typical of the young heir's personality, her dark aviator sunglasses hid her dark eyes, and her brown chin-length hair was carefully disheveled, giving her the edge of magnetism and danger people had come to expect.

"My mother sends her regards, Lord and Lady Adams," she said once everyone had been seated once again.

"How is your mother?" Meredith asked. "I have not seen her in awhile."

"I know. We were talking of just that very thing earlier. Your absence at the palace has been noticed. My mother feels you are being over-worked at the foundation."

"Well, then I shall make more of an effort to spend more time at the palace lest my presence be forgotten all together," she replied with a smile, placing her hand on Alexa's forearm.

"That could never happen, Meredith. You have the admiration of the queen. Nothing can change that, not even months apart."

"Yes but months apart from you could cause her disapproval. After all, it is my duty to attend to the land's greatest ruler-to-be."

Casting a charming one-sided grin at her girlfriend, she leaned toward her ear. Softly so no one could hear her, she whispered, "Speaking of attending to me, I was wondering if I might convince you to take a stroll."

Meredith returned the smile and nodded. "Whatever you wish, your highness," she said placing her hand in Alexa's. The princess stood and then helped her tall elegant girlfriend to her feet. Turning to her parents, Meredith said, "Lex and I are going for a walk. We will be back later."

Her father gave a grin in Alexa's direction. "Take care of each other, you two. The press is about."

Alexa guided Meredith out of the box. Immediately her security escort that had been waiting stepped to them and then fell several footsteps behind, seeming to instinctively know the couple wanted some privacy. Hand in hand they walked through the grounds, greeting patrons pleasantly and even posing for a few photographs, but they managed to make their way to a small grove of trees in solitude. Coming to one tree in particular, they stopped. Meredith leaned against the trunk slightly and gave her girlfriend a pretty smile. "I have missed you, Lex," she admitted, putting her hands on the lapels of Alexa's jacket.

The princess gave her typical dashing bright smile. "I have missed you as well," she confessed, leaning in and propping her forearm up against the trunk over her dark-haired girlfriend's head. Instantly their lips met in a soft exchange.

Meredith moaned but then gently pushed her suitor away when Alexa tried to make things more intimate between them. "Lex, we are not alone."

"So? It is no secret that we are seeing each other. It does not bother me if they see us."

"But your mother. She would not look highly upon people seeing us this way."

"My mother. You know what my mother truly wants? She wants the media to see us happy. She is concerned about the speculation in the news that our relationship is on the rocks with all our time apart. She would not mind the public seeing us enjoying each other's company a little," she pressed, trying once again to kiss the brunette.

Meredith allowed her to do so. However, after a few minutes, she suggested, "Take off this coat. It must be hot to be in all this wool."

Alexa nodded in agreement and shed her jacket. She tossed it over a low hanging branch. Looking back at her girlfriend, she asked, "Would you mind if we dispensed with this beautiful hat?"

"I do not mind as long as you do not mess up my hair. It took a long time to get it up this morning," she warned.

Alexa nodded her head in understanding. Taking the hat from Meredith's head, she placed it on another branch. "Your hair looks good like that," she said, gazing at the long dark hair that had been swept up into an exquisite twist. "Of course I love being able to run my hands through it."

"I know, but for once you must resist your urges."

Giving a low laugh, the princess nipped her girlfriend's ear lightly. "Oh the urges I have when I am with you, Mere," she growled, pulling the brunette's body closer to her own by sliding an arm around her waist. "Tell me. What is the most convenient access into your dress?"

Meredith laughed and slapped at the hands running over the bodice of her formal gown. "You are incorrigible, Lex. Absolutely scandalous," she giggled, raking fingers through the heir's dark hair as Alexa kissed along her jaw. When their eyes met again, Meredith gently removed Alexa's sunglasses and hung them from the buttonhole on her girlfriend's collar. "I much prefer seeing your eyes when we kiss," she said, sliding her arms around Alexa's neck.

"And I like kissing," Alexa whispered seductively before finding soft lips again. "I just wish you would cease torturing me so. You know I need more than your sweet lips murmuring soft nothings. You know my needs extend beyond holding your hand and tasting your enticing mouth."

"I know, your highness, but you know the law."

"Probably not as well as you do, Meredith. Surely there is some loophole. I am sure the law says nothing about making me suffer cold lonely nights, not when there is such warmth in your embrace."

"Oh no. The law is specific, and even if it was not, the queen has made it quite clear. It is only the chaste that wins her favor for your hand. Pure in heart and body is a requirement to be your bride. Queen Faith would accept nothing else."

"But it is not my mother's choice. It is mine. No one has to know, Meredith. I will not tell a soul. Just let me sample the treasures you possess."

Meredith gave a pretty smile but rebuffed her sovereign. "You may taste my pleasures only after we have been wed. After that I am yours any and every time you desire me."

Moaning in frustration, the princess pulled back. She knew she would not sway her girlfriend of two years. Meredith would do whatever the queen wanted in order to ensure Alexa's hand. The princess knew Meredith was her mother's preference for Alexa's bride, and even as tempting as the graceful woman was, the heir had her doubts about taking her girlfriend as a wife. Nevertheless, she didn't voice that. Instead she simply wrapped her in her arms once again and placed a wholesome kiss on her forehead. "You drive me delirious, my darling Mere."

"Do you honestly think that I do not think on what it might be like between us, Lex? Trust me. Under other circumstances I would have already succumbed to your magnificent enticement." Meredith cast her eyes around them to make sure they were in privacy before bringing their bodies together tightly. Taking the crowned princess by the hand, she pressed it against her left breast and held it there. "My body aches for your caress," she breathlessly confessed.

Alexa's eyes flashed wantonly at the feeling of the soft flesh in her hand. Meredith had never allowed her to touch her that way. Knowing they could be caught in the compromised position, she reluctantly let go but not before giving a tender squeeze, just enough to elicit a mewling sound from her girlfriend. "I wish we had time to explore this conversation more, but I fear I cannot without doing something inappropriate, my sweet. Perhaps when we return back to D.C. we can take the opportunity to discuss this further."

Meredith nodded her head. "We should return. My parents may begin to wonder about us."

Alexa nodded as well as she picked up her girlfriend's hat and extended it to her. She then retrieved her own coat and slipped it on. "Do I look suitable?" she asked.

"You look fine except for this lipstick." Meredith wiped it from Alexa's mouth with her fingertips. "What about me?"

"You are beautiful. Come along now. Let me escort you back."

Later that day the royal family returned to D.C. in one of their jets. Alexa had made arrangements to spend time with Meredith the following day at their estate in Virginia to go horseback riding and be alone together, so she retired to her quarters when they got home, because she knew she had an early morning ahead of her.

The next day when Alexa arrived for her breakfast after an early run along the grounds, the sight of her parents discussing something that appeared to be in the paper greeted her. Both of them smiled at her as she came into the room. "Lex, good morning. We were just talking of you."

"Good morning, Mother, Father. What have I done now to be the object of a hushed conversation?"

Faith smiled as she extended the morning newspapers in her direction. "You made quite an impression with Meredith yesterday. The presses have published all kinds of photographs of the two of you sharing time together. They are speculating that wedding bells might not be too far away for the happy couple," she teased lightly.

Alexa looked at the front pages of several publications. "Well, you did suggest we make ourselves seem close."

"I would say you accomplished that and then some. I especially like this one. You two look so happy here," Faith mentioned, pointing to the picture of Alexa kissing Meredith on the forehead. "It is so sweet. Of course some of these leave no doubt as to your desires to be alone with each other. I do not know if you have seen the news this morning on TV. They have footage of the two of you together."

"I can only imagine of what."

"Fortunately it was not too intimate. You two are only kissing passionately, but I am happy to know you were on good behavior."

"Yes, Mother. Meredith is a lady. I would never take advantage of a lady."

"I know that. However, after seeing these photographs, it does beg the question of whether you are prepared to make a proposal to Lady Meredith Adams. The time certainly is appropriate," her mother hinted, taking a sip of her hot tea.

Alexa sighed her displeasure with the direction the conversation was suddenly taking. "Mother, I am not ready to marry anyone. I care for Meredith, and I enjoy spending time with her, but I do not wish to make any kind of marriage proposal at this time."

"But, Lex, the country wants to see you wed. You are twenty-five, and people want to see you happy."

"They want to see me having children is what you are trying to say, are you not, Mother?" she pointedly questioned.

"That as well. You are the heir to the throne. Your grandmothers were already well into having my sisters and me by your age. My mother had already taken on the duties of Regent, running the country due to my grandfather's ailing health by the time she was twenty-five. She had the responsibility of the entire country. I have had it officially since I was twenty-one. You have not taken on any royal duties as of yet, and I feel it is time for you to do so. You should start by growing up and taking a wife. George is already married with a child. The people are ready to see the same for you. Meredith is your perfect match. I do not understand why you postpone the inevitable. The two of you would make beautiful intelligent children. She loves you, Lex. She has told me as much, and I know that you feel deeply for her."

Alexa nodded. "I will concede that I have feelings, but I am not ready, Mother."

"My mother was not ready when the princess proposed to her nor was I ready when your father proposed to me, but once we made that commitment to each other, I realized I had just been afraid of the unknown. It is your obligation to your country not to delay this any longer. You must marry Meredith. She is the appropriate woman for you."

Alexa rolled her eyes and sighed. "And if I say that I will not?" she questioned defiantly.

"You would not do that. You know I would never wish to force my hand with you, Alexa, but as your queen I could do so. I am doing this for your own good. Once you are married, you will thank me."

"Father, have you anything to say about this?"

"Best to listen to your mother, Alexa, and if you cannot do that, you can at the very least comply with the wishes of your sovereign," he said firmly. "Your mother is correct. You have led a life of leisure up until now, but that will end with your marriage to Meredith. You will become the responsible princess and heir you are supposed to be. The people will rest easier knowing you are wed and planning a family. That is your primary responsibility to your family and your country."

Knowing she was not going to win the argument with her parents, Alexa was quiet a moment. The queen had made up her mind, and Alexa knew once that had happened, she would not be swayed from her course. She had seen it since she was a child. That was the kind of leader her mother was, methodical but decisive. The princess knew the choice had been made for her, and she was obligated to adhere to her parents' wishes. At least hoping to stall for more time, she said, "All right. I know when a battle is futile. I will propose to Meredith but not before I leave for flight school. I will do so on my return."

Queen Faith nodded her head in agreement. "Very well. Three months will not matter much in the long run. In the meantime I will see to the rings, especially since you will not be available. That will give the jeweler ample time to create something for the two of you. The standard royal rings are most appropriate I think."

"Of course."

"Good. I am glad that has finally been decided. When are you and George heading for Florida?"

"The day after tomorrow. Today Meredith and I are going to the country estate to go riding and have some time together. I will not be back until tomorrow evening."

Her mother raised a fair brow at her. "I do hope you plan on behaving while you and Meredith are alone. That is highly against protocol, Alexa."

The princess shrugged her shoulders. "If she is to be my wife, you will have to start trusting me with her, Mother. She holds her virtue closely. You should not fear that an overzealous princess could divest the lady of her chastity."

"See that you do not. You know the law is quite explicit on that subject."

"Yes, I do. Although I have yet to figure out why."

"It should be obvious. No one but the sovereign should know their spouse. Anything else would be inappropriate."

"Even though that is true, I still do not see why an heir cannot enjoy their lover before the marriage. This notion of virginity on a wedding night is so antiquated. The laws are clear that an heir can enjoy anyone they choose before and after their marriage save their intended. I do not understand why they cannot savor the one person they wish to be with most. The idea is counter-intuitive and ridiculous in my opinion."

"Well, as interesting an opinion as that is, that is not what the law states. It says you must choose someone among us, and Meredith's family has been in the ruling class since this country was founded. The other stipulation is that they are a virgin. It is not just for the brides of royals, Alexa, but the husbands too. This is not some discriminatory law against women you know."

Alexa glanced at her father who was nodding in her direction. When understanding dawned on her on what her mother was trying to say, she grumbled, "That was more than I ever wanted to know about the two of you."

"That is the law, Alexa, and you will observe it, or you will have to answer for your actions. Meredith knows the laws and has been willing to comply so must you. If you so much as coerce her into anything other than dignified behavior, just know that I will be seriously displeased. When you become queen, you can feel free to change any laws that you like, but for now you will live under my rules. Do you understand?" the queen questioned with an edge to her voice.

Alexa nodded, knowing her mother was growing tired of her insubordinate nature at the moment. However, she too was becoming irritated with the entire conversation and wisecracked, "Yes, your majesty. I understand." With that she stood from the table. "Now if you will excuse me I must be going. I have to pick up Meredith in a little while."

Later that day Alexa and Meredith arrived at the country palace in the Shenandoah Valley. While the servants took their luggage into their separate quarters, the two of them headed down to the stables holding hands. Alexa looked over at her girlfriend as she thought of the conversation she had with her mother that morning. The woman walking next to her would become her wife and queen when the time arrived. Even though Alexa was nervous about that prospect, she figured Meredith was probably the best choice for her given the limitations she faced. She had always gotten along with her girlfriend. They had never fought, so she didn't think quarreling would be a part of their marriage either. In fact, the only resistance Meredith ever showed her was whenever Alexa became too amorously inclined for what was proper in their stations in life.

The queen was right, she figured. It was her duty to marry and have children to carry on the Washington line, and Meredith was a perfect woman with which to do that. She had fine qualities and seemed to be capable of being a kind mother to any children they might have. Alexa's only concern was the passion of their relationship. The longing to be with Meredith barely went beyond wishing to conquer her, and she just didn't know if she could come to feel more. Furthermore, when she looked into Meredith's eyes, she wasn't sure of the woman's feelings. Meredith spoke all the right words and acted the right way, but the princess just wasn't necessarily convinced that her girlfriend was in love. Alexa had a suspicion that Meredith was more interested in the crown than her, but she would never be able to prove that notion. Alexa wanted to feel deliriously in love the way she thought her grandmothers had been. The Queen Mother had spun the most romantic notions about her relationship with Queen Alexa, and those tales became the basis the princess used to judge a prospective partner. By those standards she and Meredith would never be more than good friends who shared their bed for the sake of their country. There was no doubt that she wanted to bed Lady Meredith Adams, but once she had she wondered if that desire would fade or if their relationship might grow into more.

"You seem preoccupied today," Meredith mentioned, squeezing Alexa's hand. "Are you all right?"

"I am fine. I was just thinking about a talk I had with my mother this morning. Sometimes it is difficult to have the queen for a mother. I cannot just throw a child-like tantrum, because I wish to do something other than what my mother wishes. I still am obliged to obey her, because she is the queen. That has always been difficult."

"I am sure it has, especially for you. You are not known for following orders well," she teased. "But I love you for being a progressive thinker, even if it goes directly against the laws. You have passion for life, Lex."

Raising her girlfriend's hand to her lips, she kissed the back of it sweetly. "I love you, too, Mere," she said, hoping that it sounded convincing to her company. The flush that appeared on the shorter woman's face made her confident that she had been successful. For the rest of the afternoon the two women rode through the countryside horseback enjoying each other's company. Alexa talked little as she contemplated the way her life was going to change when she and George returned from their military flight school.

The siblings had been looking forward to those three months together learning the lost art of military aircraft. The country had moved into unmanned crafts for the most common exercises, because the technology was reliable at much less expense. However, there were a select few pilots left throughout the Navy and Air Force, and all of them were gathering at the airbase in Florida for advanced training and a flight competition. The Washington children were among the Navy's finest aviators and had been invited to participate, much to their joy. Both of them adored the rush of exhilaration at the speed and altitude of the jets, and given their natural rivalry were eager at the chance to outdo the other in the contest, even though it was widely thought that George was the best pilot in the military.

However, Alexa now had mixed feelings about the excursion. She was glad to be able to retreat from her real life. She would not have to be subjected to her parents or spend time with Meredith pretending to be content with her life. She could do as she chose at any time for a short while, but she also knew after that morning that it would be the last time such an opportunity would ever exist for her. Her life would change, and she would be forced to mature into a respected leader. It was something she knew she could do, but she enjoyed her freedoms quite a bit as well.

After a late dinner that evening, the two women were in the study sitting together on the sofa sipping wine and enjoying a fire in the fireplace. Neither spoke for a while but finally Meredith mentioned, "That argument with your mother must have been serious. I have never seen you so withdrawn in your entire life."

Alexa gave a slow nod. It was true. She was acting highly out of character, and she wasn't surprised Meredith noticed. After all, they had known each other for their entire lives. The Adams and Washingtons were close families. Alexa could remember when Meredith was born, and she never thought when she was eighteen that she would end up proposing to the twelve-year-old who followed George and her around incessantly whenever their families would congregate. How much Meredith had changed over her teenage years, transforming from an awkward and annoying kid into a beautiful intelligent young woman. "It was," Alexa replied softly. "To make it worse my father sided with her."

"Whatever it was, it will pass."

"I know."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

The princess shook her head. "I do not want to burden you with my troubles."

"Lex, I am always here for you. You know that."

"I know."

"I wish there was something I could do to make you feel better." The women looked at each other, but then Meredith gave a shy little grin. "I have an idea," she whispered, putting both their wine glasses on the coffee table in front of them. Turning toward her girlfriend, she leaned in and kissed her gently. Alexa responded in kind, bringing her arms around the younger woman. "I have been thinking about this since we were at the Derby," Meredith whispered as both women became more involved with their mouths.

"Me too," Alexa confessed. For several minutes they kissed before Alexa brought her girlfriend to sit straddled across her legs. Moving from Meredith's lips, her mouth trailed down along her neck as her hands began to roam over the brunette's back. "You feel incredibly good right now," the princess growled softly.

"So do you, Lex," Meredith breathlessly replied pressing their bodies closer. Taking Alexa's right hand, she placed it over her left breast and whispered, "Touch me here."

The older woman obliged moving her hands along Meredith's breasts. Their kissing continued as Alexa's hands fondled her girlfriend lightly at first but then with increasing pressure, enjoying the way Meredith's body responded, her back arching pushing herself deeper into the caress. "Do you enjoy that?" needlessly Alexa asked as her lips moved to her girlfriend's ear.

Meredith gave a moan and nod. "I like having you touch me."

"I can touch more of you if you want," Alexa offered as her fingers moved to the buttons on Meredith's blouse. She didn't wait for an answer before opening several. Not hearing a dissent, she kept going until it was opened completely. There was a brief pause as their eyes met. Alexa saw questions in her girlfriend's eyes, but Meredith said nothing. Alex ran her right hand slowly over Meredith's shoulder along her collarbone and down over the exposed skin of her of her upper chest eliciting a shiver from the woman astride her. Her hand methodically moved along the edge of the satin bra before her fingers slipped beneath the material to touch Meredith's bare breast. The smaller woman trembled but still said nothing. Although her body spoke for her as a gasp escaped her mouth. Knowing that Meredith could pull away at any moment, Alexa moved slowly. Her lips went back to her girlfriend's as her hand simply rested where it was. The heat that suffused Meredith's skin made it obvious that she was enjoying the attention, but her actions were still timid.

The princess could feel her own body beginning to simmer. She had never been this intimate with Meredith before, and it was thrilling to be able to feel some of the body over which she had fantasized. Meredith's skin was incredibly soft. Unable to control herself, her hands began to grope with more insistence as their mouths conveyed their rising ardor. Going with the moment, Alexa let her mouth wander over Meredith's neck down her chest and over the clothed right breast.

Meredith gave a loud cry, but her hands were suddenly on the heir's shoulders applying resistance. "Alexa, we cannot."

"Yes, we can."

"No, I cannot. The laws says..."

"I know what the law says, Mere. It says nothing about two lovers enjoying each other's bodies before they are married. It simply states we cannot consummate the relationship."

"But..."

"But nothing. We are not doing anything wrong," she pressed continuing with her pace.

Meredith moaned but tried again. "Lex, please stop. I must protest. As good as this feels, I cannot allow us to continue. If I grant you this, I am afraid I will not be able to resist granting you all," she confessed.

"That is what I want."

"I know, and it is what I want as well, Lex, but we must abide by the law."

"But I want to make love to you, Meredith. It will be a long time before we see each other again."

"I know, and I want that as well, but we both must speak for our actions. I, for one, am not prepared to explain to the queen what has taken place between us. Are you?"

"My mother knows how I feel on this subject. We are not of the same mind."

Taking the taller woman's hands in her own, Meredith took several deep breaths. "Alexa, you know that once we are married, I will always be available to you, but until then I must remain faithful to the law regardless of my own feelings."

"She will never have to know, Meredith."

"She will know, Alexa. You may be able to lie to your mother, but I cannot lie to my queen. She will ask, and I must be truthful. Now perhaps it might be best if we were to retire for the night. Time apart will settle our desires."

Alexa sighed. She knew she would not be able to sway her girlfriend, so she simply nodded her head. "Very well. I will walk you to your room."

The women slowly made their way down several long corridors until they got to Meredith's quarters. Alexa paused at the door, knowing she shouldn't go inside even as much as she wanted to at that moment. Meredith smiled up at her and took a moment to brush some dark hair behind her girlfriend's ear. "I love you, Lex. I hope you know that."

"I know, and I love you too, Mere. This is just getting more difficult, though. I do not like being put off this way, even though I know you are trying to do the right thing. I guess I just do not like how much my mother seems to be in this relationship."

"She is not really. It is just the two of us. If you were not the heir to the throne, our relationship would be much different. This is just the path we both must walk. You know it is true."

Alexa conceded with a nod. "I know that, but I still get frustrated."

"The sooner we are married the sooner the torture comes to an end. That is all it will take."

"I realize that, but what you and my mother do not seem to understand is that I am not ready to give up my life as it is currently to be married. Once I am married, I have to be this responsible princess and live my life for others. Right now I am still more interested in living life for myself. I have very little time left to do so, and I want to use it to its fullest."

"I cannot argue with that. I will wait as long as you need me to, but that only means you must also wait."

"Yes, it does. However, at this point in time, it is a sacrifice I am willing to make. I hope you understand that."

"I do. I know once we marry the pressure will be on us to produce heirs directly. I am not exactly looking forward to such time, but I know it will be my position to do so. I am only nineteen after all, and sometimes I feel as if I am sacrificing my entire life for this fate, but I am willing to, because I have a chance to serve you and the country well. Not all women can make such a claim."

"No, they cannot. Well, I should let you retire. You know where I will be if you need me," she said, leaning to kiss her girlfriend lightly on the lips.

"Good night, Lex. Sleep well."

"You too, darling Mere."

With that the princess took her leave, heading down the hall to where her quarters were. She spent the next several hours reading, but she was restless. Consulting her watch she realized it was past 1:00 and decided she should attempt sleep. Dressing in her pajamas, she got into bed, but her mind wandered to the woman not too far away. She really wished she was sharing her bed with Meredith at the moment, even if they were not having sex. Thinking on that for a little while, she decided to see if her girlfriend was still awake.

Getting out of bed and heading out into the corridor, she made her way down the long hall to Meredith's room. She didn't see a light on under the door, so she thought the younger woman was probably asleep. However, she knocked lightly anyway. There was no answer at first. Putting her hand on the doorknob, she found the door to be unlocked, so she quietly opened it. The light from the hallway flooded the darkened room to show Meredith asleep in bed.

Alexa just stood there for a moment regarding her. The nineteen-year-old's long dark hair splayed across the pillowcase, and her lips were parted slightly. The princess thought she looked beautiful and innocent that way. Knowing she should announce her presence, she knocked on the door again. This time Meredith's eyes fluttered and then sleepily opened.

"Lex, is that you?"

"Yes," she whispered in reply coming into the room and shutting the door behind her. She locked it and then moved toward the bed.

"What are you doing in here? Was there something you wanted?" Meredith queried.

Alexa didn't answer at first as she moved to the unoccupied side of the bed and slipped under the covers. She could see her girlfriend's eyes on her, even in the dark, wide in surprise at this sudden move. "Do not be afraid, Mere. You know I would never hurt you."

"Lex, you should not be in here."

"I want to be with you, Meredith, even if it is just to hold you."

"Alexa, we should not."

"I promise I will not act inappropriately with you. I merely wish to hold you through the night. Have I ever broken a promise to you?" she inquired as her left arm slipped around her girlfriend's waist.

"No, your highness. You have never betrayed my trust."

"Do you trust me now then? Will you allow me to stay here with you?"

There was a pause of silence as they looked at each other in the dark. Finally Meredith answered, "If it pleases you, your highness, you may stay as long as you wish."

"Thank you," Alexa murmured, leaning and kissing Meredith on the temple. She knew to do more would be breaking her word, so she simply snuggled closely, and the two were silent. Quickly sleep found Meredith again, leaving Alexa awake to ponder her life. She gazed at the sleeping woman next to her. She had never spent an entire night with another woman, even with all her tawdry affairs the public so avidly expected from the young heir, so she was eager to experience it to its fullest even if she could not consummate the relationship she had with Meredith. Long into the night she laid awake delighting in the pleasure of holding a beautiful woman in her arms.

The next morning the princess became cognizant when she felt something softly brushing over her face. Parting her eyelids slightly she came face to face with a vision. There was Meredith propped up next to her in bed, an angelic glow cast about her from the morning sun coming in the window. The teenager's eyes were bright, and she wore a content grin. "Good morning, Lex," she whispered as her hand continued rubbing Alexa's brow and forehead.

"Morning. You are in a pleasant mood."

"Because I woke next to you. You look so amazingly sexy asleep. I thought I was dreaming at first when I saw you."

"It is no dream," Alexa whispered reaching up to Meredith's face. She cupped her head and brought their mouths together slowly. Feeling their bodies pressed together with only their thin sleeping attire separating them made Alexa's desires from the previous night bubble up to the surface of her skin. However, Meredith was not as resistant as normal. Instead she began to move against the princess in earnest as Alexa maneuvered her on top of her own body. Their legs found their way between each other's, and their hips began to rock as their kissing became deeper.

"We are getting dangerously close to doing something we should not," Meredith mentioned with a giggle.

"I know, but it feels so good."

"So good," mumbled Meredith in agreement as she rolled her hips instinctively against the strong thigh she straddled. "However, we really should stop."

"We should," Alexa said, doing nothing of the sort. In fact, her hands wandered more freely, moving to her girlfriend's backside and squeezing gently.

"Lex," she moaned.

"I am right here, Mere."

"We need to stop," she said again.

"But I do not want to."

"Neither do I. You know that, but we must." Regretfully Meredith pulled back and put distance between them. "Come on. Let us get up and dress. Could we have breakfast outside on the veranda?"

"Certainly. We can do anything you want."

"Except what we want," she teased ironically, rising from bed.

"Exactly." Alexa got out of bed and moved to encircle her girlfriend's waist from behind. She kissed the top of her head. "It would be best if I went back to my room now I suppose. I will meet you out on the veranda in a bit."

For the rest of the day Alexa acted much more like herself. She enjoyed her day with Meredith and then returned home around dinner to pack for her trip. Her mother appeared while she was doing so. "Are you still upset with me?" she inquired, taking a seat in the bedside chair while her daughter contemplated what she was taking with her.

"Not really, Mother. The time away with Meredith did some good. I had a chance to think about things."

"And?"

"Perhaps you are right about Meredith. She is the appropriate woman to take as a bride. I am not quite ready to make that commitment, but I know it is my obligation to do it, and I know Meredith is ready. I suppose it will be a short engagement, possibly a winter wedding."

"Good. I am glad you have decided to take the mature approach to this. I knew you would come around given some time."

"Well, that means I am going to treat the next three months away as the largest bachelor party known to man," she joked.

"Do not do anything to tarnish the family, Alexa. Play all you want otherwise."

"Oh, I will, Mother. George and I are going to have a blast."

*****

Chapter II: First Time Feelings

Early the following morning Alexa and George left to go on their military excursion. It was a tearful farewell between the prince, his wife, and their baby girl with promises to write and call. The queen also shed tears at the sight of both her children dressed in their military clothes leaving for service. She hugged each of them tightly but reminded Alexa to behave herself. Finally though the two Washington children got in their limousine and were taken to the airport.

Boarding one of the royal jets, they were quickly whisked away into the air for their several hour flight. Alexa looked over at her brother who was quiet. "Are you all right, George?"

"I am fine. I just do not like the idea of being away from Kelly and Morgan so long. My little girl is not even a year old."

"I know, but we have so much to look forward to. There is the flight competition and all the partying on the weekends. I hope there are lots of girls hanging around."

George cracked a grin. "Girls follow you wherever you go. You should not have a problem with that."

"They follow you too, you know. You just do not pay attention anymore. Perhaps that can change this trip," she suggested.

He shook his head. "I will look, but I have no interest in touching, not since Kelly had Morgan. I do not know what happened to me, but it changed me somehow. I do not even think about other girls now."

"You cannot say that. You were one of the biggest womanizers that I know."

"As are you, but my time has passed. I am happy with Kelly. I will go out and hunt women with you, but do not expect me to be taking any back to our quarters. You feel free, though, to invite as many as you want."

"I will."

"I am sure of it. After all, I get the notion that you will not be single much longer. Something tells me that Mother has decided that you should marry Lady Meredith Adams."

"You would be right about that. I have agreed to proposing to her upon our return from training."

"Are you sure you want to do that?"

"No, but what choice do I have? You know Mother. When she decides on something, it is done. She has decided I am to be with Meredith. You are fortunate to be in the position you are in, my brother. You have all of the opportunities to do as you please without much of the pressures I face. You are free to live your life as you see fit for the most part, and you fell in love with the woman you desired to marry. I envy that sometimes."

"Well, I do not envy you, Lex. I would not want to be the first born in this family. I never wanted to rule a country. I am glad that responsibility falls to you. You are a natural leader, and I know you will make a fine queen when the time comes. Is there any hope that you might come to love Meredith?"

"I already love Meredith. Do not get me wrong on that point. I just do not love her in the way I feel I should love the woman I want to marry. I want to feel passion and excitement. I want to be enthralled by her very presence. Meredith is a beautiful, sweet, intelligent girl, but I just do not feel those things. We are close but not close enough to be married in my mind."

"That is a start at least. Maybe in time you can come to be more."

"We shall see I suppose. I do have consolation in the fact I may seek love somewhere else at any time. I may be married, but I still desire to seek love. If it does not come with Meredith, I hope to find it elsewhere."

George shook his head. "Well, I am not jealous of the situation in which you find yourself, Lex. I just want you to be happy."

"Well, right now I am happy, because I am away from Mother, doing what I want."

"I cannot wait to get in the planes. It has been too long since we have been in the skies," he agreed. "Of course I cannot wait to beat you in this competition either. I will be named Top Gun this year. Mark my words," he gloated.

"Not if I have anything to say about it," she said with a laugh. "I will be taking you down at every chance, Stryker," she promised, using his call name.

"We will see about that, Flash," he commented, returning the favor.

Several hours later when their plane landed on the base, they were immediately taken to the quarters they would be sharing. Most of the pilots were staying in the barracks together but being the royals that they were, they were segregated into the best accommodations on the base, a freestanding house that sat amongst a long line of homes for the top ranking officials. Still it was no palace, but Alexa was simply glad to be away from her life. Leaving their luggage, they were then escorted to where they would be spending a great deal of their time, a hangar next to the airfield that was equipped with a classroom and several planes.

Everyone was already there when they arrived. When they walked into the room, everyone stood, but no one bowed, because it was not protocol in the military, especially since the two of them were lowly officers at the present time, even though Alexa would automatically rise to the Commander-in-Chief when she became queen.

"At last our final pilots are here, Lieutenant Commander Washington and Lieutenant Washington. I am Colonel Pickrell of the United States Air Force, and I was just explaining the agenda to your fellow pilots. Please take your seats."

George and Alexa sat in the back of the classroom. Several curious eyes peered over sunglasses at them, but no one said anything as they listened to their instructor. After a couple of hours they were ordered to change into their flight gear for their first test run. Being the only woman in the program, Alexa got a changing area to herself. Once in her flight suit, she grabbed her helmet out of her bag and smiled. It had been awhile since she had worn it, and it brought her such a good feeling to see the bold red and white stripes and stars against the blue field. The American flag helmet shown brightly in the light, and she turned to admire her call name, Flash, imprinted across the back. Pulling a photograph of Meredith and her out of her bag as well, she tucked it in her front pocket to take to her plane. Heading out to the airstrip, she was met by her fellow aviators. George had his helmet, a matching one to hers in his hand. Everyone was just standing around talking when several instructors appeared.

"All right. Let's get up there. Lieutenant Commander Washington, we'll have you do the honors being the most senior officer. You will be matched against Major Williams of the Air Force today. I should warn you, Lieutenant Commander, that he is the top flight instructor at this school. This isn't going to be a cakewalk."

"Thank you for the warning, Colonel Pickrell."

"Beginning now, Officers, everything you do in the air will be counted toward your score in the Top Gun competition. Good luck. Lieutenant Commander Washington, to your plane. The rest of you to the observation deck."

"Good luck, Flash," George said with a smile, reaching out and patting her on the shoulder.

"I will not need luck. You know that," she jested, putting on her helmet.

Climbing up into her plane, Alexa took a moment to get settled. She took the picture of she and Meredith from her front pocket and secured it against the instrument panel. Pulling shut the cockpit, she locked herself in and turned on the engines. The plane came roaring to life. Even though she would have normally checked her plane before flight herself, she knew it had already been done for her while she had changed. When she felt ready for her flight, she slowly eased her plane out from the others before pausing. With a thumbs up and a salute to her ground crew, she taxied toward the runway for her first flight.

Meanwhile up on the observation deck, the other officers stood around watching as Alexa's plane took to the air. George stood amongst them hoping that his sister won her first competition. However, his thoughts were interrupted by one of the men asking, "Say, Washington, can she really fly, or did they just let her in because of who she was?"

The prince turned to the voice. A tall fit platinum blonde smirked in his direction. Even without seeing his eyes, he could tell they were full of arrogance just by the way the guy was standing. Reading the name of Barnes on his flight suit, George knew who he was. He had heard the stories of the Air Force's greatest pilot. His skills were only surpassed by his cocky behavior. "Hollywood, is it not?" George questioned.

"That's right. Heard of me?"

"As a matter of fact, I have. Your reputation travels far."

"That's what happens when you're the best."

George laughed lightly. "The best? That has yet to be seen. As for my sister, she can fly. In fact, she is almost as good as me," he joked.

"That's pretty good then," the blonde conceded. "You have a rep too. Of course, so does the Lieutenant Commander. Although hers has nothing to do with flying."

Hearing snickering from some of the other men, George crossed his arms across his chest in defensive manner. "I can only imagine what you might mean. She might be a military pilot, but she is still the princess, and one day she will be the Commander-in-Chief."

"But for now she's just Lieutenant Commander Washington of the U.S. Navy, which means she doesn't get the same consideration she would in the civilian world. She's just one of us as are you. You know as well as I do that even though they let fags in the military, it isn't widely accepted by us career officers. We just put up with it, because we have to. That doesn't mean we like it."

"Well, that is just what you are going to do now. You do not want to cross Alexa, Hollywood. She will take you down."

"Yeah, right. A woman, a dyke will never take me down, Stryker. Get real."

"Mark my words, Hollywood. She will take you down before this competition is over, and if she does not, I will for the remark you just made."

"Is that a threat?"

"It is a promise. Now does anyone else have a remark they would like to make regarding the Lieutenant Commander's sexuality?" George questioned shortly. Everyone shook their heads. "That is what I thought. Now why do we not watch her teach Major Williams a lesson? Who knows? You might learn a thing or two."

Over the course of the next several days Alexa and George spent their time in classes and flying. In the evenings when they were alone, though, the princess would sit watching TV and drinking while trying to ignore her brother's verbal canoodling with his wife over the phone. The first Friday night they got though, the group of pilots decided to go hit the bars and enjoy their freedom of the next two days. Alexa was all for leaving the base, and since George didn't want to be left alone, both of them agreed to go with their peers.

Dressing in their formal military dress as was required of their entire group when they left the premises, they all headed out to find fun. Even though no one noticed, Alexa and George knew that their security would be tagging along closely behind just in case even though the two large men blended in with the rest of the crowd at the bar. The ten rowdy pilots found a bar close to the base that seemed to be popular amongst all the other military personnel. Finding a table they crowded around it. Alexa saw her security take a spot at the bar, but she ignored them.

The place was packed with military people but few civilians with the exception of the staff. It wasn't surprising considering the fact that the base was not close to any major cities. As a waitress came to their table, she immediately recognized Alexa and George. Taking everyone's orders, she quickly ran to get their beverages. Alexa just drank her beer quietly and looked around the establishment. When her eyes got to the bar, though, her gaze locked on the woman behind it.

A petite redhead was standing there pouring drinks to her security team. The princess watched the shoulder-length hair sway lightly as the bartender turned to grab a liquor bottle from behind her, giving Alexa a chance to see what the backside of the stranger looked like. Her jeans were tight as was her t-shirt, allowing the heir to take in the fit little body. When the bartender turned again, Alexa got a better look at her face, blue eyes and a pretty smile. The princess was mesmerized. The simplicity of the stranger's wardrobe and makeup only made her more attractive. Alexa had never seen a woman so naturally beautiful in her opinion. Unable to tear her eyes away from the sight, she just sat there until a hard swat to her shoulder broke her concentration.

"Hey, Flash, you're being too quiet," Hollywood stated. "What's the deal?"

"Nothing," she stated, allowing her eyes stray once again.

"Oh, I see. The Lieutenant Commander's got her eyes on someone. She's not your type."

"And how do you know my type, Hollywood?"

"Well, she's not a dyke," he sneered into his beer. "There isn't any way that woman is gay."

"How do you know?"

"Because I know. I'll even bet on it."

"Flash, do not get involved in this," George warned.

"George, it is just a little wager. What are the stakes, Hollywood?"

"Bragging rights. The first one to fuck her wins."

Alexa's eyes went to the bar again. The small woman was standing in the corner of the bar with her head in a book, something Alexa found incongruent with the rest of the place. Nevertheless, she was intrigued. Casting a look at her brother, she saw him shake his head in disapproval. "I do not know," she mentioned.

"Come on. You scared? You afraid that I'm right?" Hollywood taunted. "You mean to tell me that your reputation as a womanizer isn't true? You think you're God's gift to women, but I'm here to tell you that you don't stand a chance against me, Flash. No dyke will ever beat me in anything," he snarled.

Feeling her temper rise at the name he had just spat at her, Alexa rose from her chair. She wasn't used to being insulted. In fact, she couldn't recall ever having been called a name like that in her life. The circle in which she had always surrounded herself was respectful of her rightful place. Wanting to exert her power over this man who was quickly becoming an adversary, she nodded her head slowly. Extending her hand toward him, she said, "All right. We have a bet, Hollywood. First one to sleep with her wins."

He cracked a grin as they shook hands. "I look forward to this," he stated, draining his beer. "Excuse me, losers. I have work to do."

Taking her seat once again, she watched Hollywood saunter over toward the bar. Shaking her head, she turned back to her company. However, her brother scolded, "You should not have done that."

"Trust me. Hollywood will never win this bet. She is not straight."

"How do you know?"

"I just know."

"The same way he just knows that she is? If Mother found out about this, you would be in trouble."

"Then we need to make sure she does not find out. Promise me you will not tell her?"

"Never. This secret stays between us. Now how do you propose to keep Hollywood away from that woman? He seems pretty determined to undermine you by whatever means necessary. This is not about winning her but about insulting you, you know."

"I know that, Stryker, but that is not going to happen. She is a woman's woman. I just know it, and I look forward to the opportunity of being with her, especially after she puts Hollywood in his place. She is incredibly beautiful."

"That she is," George conceded.

For the next hour Alexa watched as her opponent tried to put moves on the bartender, but it was obvious she remained unmoved. Seeing that he was beginning to get a little more aggressive though, she figured it was probably time to step in. Putting her empty beer glass on the table, she walked over to the bar. She saw the way Hollywood kept touching the bartender, placing his hands in inappropriate places for someone he didn't know and the way his advances were brutally rebuffed. Leaning into the bar two stools down from where he was, Alexa called, "Hey, gorgeous, may I get another beer?"

"If that is a line, I am not biting," the redhead replied before she even turned around. However as she did, she came face to face with the heir to the throne. However, it didn't look like the woman recognized her.

"Another beer perhaps Miss..."

"None of your business," the redhead supplied shortly.

"Well, may I have another beer, Miss 'none of your business?'" she inquired.

"Fine. What do you want?"

"Whatever you are inclined to serve."

The redhead rolled her eyes. "Order please," she stated irritably.

Seeing that things were not off to a good start, Alexa just ordered her beer. Out of the corner of her eye, she saw Hollywood chuckling into his glass. "What a bitch," he joked as the bartender went to the other end of the bar to get Alexa's beer. "She didn't take to you too well."

"It did not look like she was taking to you either, and it is not nice to call people names, Hollywood."

He waved her off. "You know the harder they fight they better in bed they are," he quipped. As the bartender returned, she put Alexa's glass down in front of her. "Hey, cutie. Another one over here too." She nodded but said nothing. As she turned to go, Hollywood put out his hand and gave her a pat on the back of the jeans, earning him an incredulous glare from her.

"I already asked you to keep your hands to yourself," she growled. "Do that again and you will be out of this bar."

"Dyke," he mumbled under her breath as she started to turn again.

Before Alexa could even register what happened, the bartender took a swing at Hollywood, but he had caught her by the wrist in midair before the slap had landed against his face. Gripping her tightly, he said, "Don't you dare." She struggled to free herself but to no avail.

Knowing she should step in, Alexa came to them and gave her adversary a shove in the chest. "Let her go, Hollywood."

"Get out of my face, Flash!" he yelled, releasing his grip on the bartender and stepping to Alexa.

"Then stop manhandling the lady."

"What's it to you? You want to fuck her too!"

Pushing him back a few feet, Alexa boomed, "Get away from me!"

"Make me!" he challenged.

Unable to control her anger, the princess took a swing at him but missed. He connected though with a shot to her stomach. Retaliating she clocked him in the jaw. Before it could escalate further though, her security pulled them apart. Both of them were snarling at each other and throwing daggers with their eyes. "Are you all right, Lex?" the man holding her inquired.

"I am fine. Get him out of my sight." Turning back to the bar, she was surprised to find the bartender glaring at her.

"You intolerable brute! How dare you interfere?" the redhead questioned.

"I was just trying to help," Alexa defended.

"Some help. I could get fired for what just happened. You are as bad as he is. Different act but the same goal," she grumbled.

"No, not at all," the princess stated, but she could tell she was not believed. She knew it wasn't the truth either, but it was worth a shot. "Allow me to make amends," she proposed.

"Fine. You can make amends by leaving. My boss will not tolerate that behavior in here. Get out and do not come back until your brain is out of your pants," she chastised. "You may be able to sweet talk other women but not me. I am not fooled by that nonsense."

Feeling reproached but also somewhat impressed by the woman in front of her, Alexa just nodded. "For what it is worth, I am sorry," she apologized before heading out the front door. One of her guards escorted her back to the base.

Later that night when George arrived back at the house, Alexa was lounging on the couch watching TV. "That was quite an eventful night," he mentioned. "You certainly made an impression. I just hope the media does not catch wind that the princess was in a bar brawl."

"It was not a brawl, only a few punches."

"I cannot believe Hollywood actually struck you. Is he insane? Does he think that is going to go unpunished?"

"Oh, he does not think. That is his problem. He will not go unpunished. In fact, I have already thought of an appropriate punishment for him."

"And what is that?"

"Hollywood wants to be a career military pilot, but after today, he will never see another promotion. He will remain a 1st Lieutenant as long as he serves. He struck a superior officer, and that is unacceptable."

"He struck the crowned princess, Lex. Perhaps something a little harsher would be appropriate."

"That is enough. He will be ostracized slowly and painfully for what he has done when all his friends begin to outrank him. His only option will be to resign his position with a dishonorable discharge, and that is not looked well upon in the civilian world. He has ruined his life, but he does not even realize it yet."

"If you are sure, but I would like to see him kicked out of the flight competition as well."

"You are the prince, George. Have him kicked out if you would like. I will not stop you from that pursuit."

"Then it is settled. I will inform the Colonel tomorrow."

For the rest of the night even after she had retired to bed, Alexa couldn't get that bartender out of her head. The woman was so beautiful, so feisty and seemingly independent. She had given the princess a reproach like she had never received, not even from her mother, the queen. Even though she should have been upset over it, she wasn't. In fact, she took more pleasure in seeing the woman's fire in retrospect. However, she did feel somewhat bad that she was lumped with Hollywood as a miserable philanderer, even though there was some truth to the statement.

Saturday afternoon the princess decided she would go back to the bar in case the woman was there again, however, this time she went alone. When she stepped into the place, she was pleased to find the redhead behind the bar reading. It was fairly quiet. Going to the bar, Alexa took a seat. "Excuse me, bartender. Are you busy?" she asked politely.

Those blue eyes looked in her direction. She could see irritation already starting to grow as the woman headed her way. "Lieutenant Commander Washington," she stated.

Quizzically Alexa asked, "How did you know that?"

"Your name tag. I am a military brat, so I know all the medals and bars."

"Call me Lex or Flash. That is my call name."

"A Navy pilot?" she questioned.

"Yes."

"I should have known. All you aviators wear the same sunglasses. Why is that?" she questioned, picking up Alexa's sunglasses that were resting on the bar next to her military cover.

"It is a secret in the order of pilots. If I tell you, I would have to kill you," she teased with a bright smile. The bartender cracked a small smile but said nothing. "Do you have a name?"

"Of course I have a name. I told you last night."

"I know. 'None of your business.' I thought you might have legally changed it between then and now by chance."

This time there was a tiny chuckle. "Why do you want to know my name?"

"Because it is better to apologize using your name than just calling you bartender."

There was a moment of silence before she replied, "Lauren. Lauren Fulton."

"Well, Ms. Fulton, I just wanted to apologize for what happened last night. I thought I was helping when I stepped in with Hollywood. I should have known you would have been able to take care of yourself. I am sorry for any offense I may have caused you."

"You stepped in to save me in hopes that you might get that invitation into my bed. Am I right, Flash?"

"What gave you that idea?"

"You pilots are all the same. You are all arrogant and conceited. You think you own the world and that it should bow at your feet. You think women should fall into your bed whenever you want."

"Arrogance is what makes us who we are. It is what makes us great pilots. Insolence keeps us on the edge, one step ahead of the enemy."

Lauren shook her head. "You only think that, but truly it is not what saves you. It is what kills your breed. How many military pilots do you know that live into their old age? Very few because you all think you are invincible. Arrogance does not amount to bravery. It falls more in line with idiocy."

"Sounds as if you speak from experience."

"My father was a military pilot. He died pretending to be brave. Sometimes fear can be healthy. He might still be alive. My entire life changed the moment his plane fell from the sky."

"But he died chasing a dream I assume. We all are dreamers. We like the idea of being able to touch the clouds, if not with our hands our wings."

Lauren shrugged. "Sometimes you have to postpone your own dreams for those of your family. It is the right thing to do."

"Sometimes it is," Alexa conceded. "So am I forgiven for last night?"

"Sure, Flash. Now do you want a drink?"

"Iced tea if you have it."

"Of course we have that. Be right back."

A few minutes later Lauren set a glass down in front of her. "Thanks. May I ask you something personal?" She waited until the redhead nodded before inquiring, "Why do you read while you are here? I have never seen a bartender read before."

"I like to read. I actually work at the library just a few blocks down the street. That is my full-time job. I just do this for extra money. It can be slow, so I like to amuse myself with a book. It makes the time go by faster."

"Full-time job? What do you do there?"

"I am a librarian. I work there Monday through Friday during the days, and I work here Friday nights and Saturday days."

"That does not leave much time for yourself."

"I do not need time for myself as much as I need the money."

"What are you saving for?"

"My ticket out of this place. I have lived here my whole life, and I am ready to start a new one. I am almost there too."

"Where do you want to move?"

"I have not decided for sure. Somewhere along the East Coast. I imagine a place with bustling people and culture like New York or D.C. I want to live in a place that has lots of history."

"Well, D.C. certainly has that. That is where I call home."

"How long have you been stationed here?"

"Oh, I am only in the reserves. This is not my career. I am just here for a flight competition."

"I did not realize they had reservist pilots or officers. I thought only career personnel could do that."

"I am an exception."

"You must be special then. Who did you have to convince to get that?"

"My mother."

"Your mother?" Lauren questioned with a confused quirk of her brow. "Is she a senior military officer or something?"

"As a matter of fact, she is."

"So, what is your real job in life then when you are not serving your time?"

"I help her in the family business," Alexa answered, sensing this woman really didn't know who she was.

"And what business is that?"

Alexa shrugged. "Nothing exciting. Politics mostly. Mostly I just enjoy my freedom, at least for the moment. She keeps threatening to make me take on more responsibilities. After all, I am the chosen one to take over the business when the time is right."

Seeing some recognition overcome the bartender's face, Alexa just held the gaze. "Would I have heard of your mother, Flash?" she asked.

"Most likely."

"What is her name?"

"Alexa Georgianna Faith Washington."

"Queen Faith?" needlessly she inquired.

"That is the one."

With her eyes widened with shock, Lauren said, "Which makes you..."

However, the princess cut her off quickly, saying, "Lex or Flash. That is all I am here. I am nothing but a Lieutenant Commander in the U.S. Navy."

"Your highness, you were punched last night. A man dared strike you."

"I know. He will serve time for that in his own way. I did not mind too much. What bothered me more was feeling as if I created an injustice with you. I did not enjoy being placed in a category with Hollywood in vying for your attention. I was merely trying to assist. Clearly I was out of line, though. I am sorry."

The redhead shook off the comment with a shake of her head. "I never should have inferred that you had ulterior motives for trying to help."

"Well, shall we just start again then by pretending it never happened?"

"I would like that."

"Very well." Finishing off her glass of tea, she stood. "I must go now. It was nice to see you, Lauren. I hope this is the beginning of a pleasant friendship."

"It was nice to see you too, Flash," she said with a smile.

Heading back to the base, Alexa was met in the foyer by her brother and Colonel Pickrell. "Colonel, what are you doing here?"

"Your brother and I were just discussing what happened between you and 1st Lieutenant Barnes last night. Perhaps we can have a talk?"

"Certainly. Let us go into the kitchen."

When the two of them were alone, the Colonel turned to her and asked, "Is what he said true? Did Hollywood hit you?"

"Yes, that is true."

"Your brother wants him disqualified for fighting. I agree with him. He can't just go around hitting people."

"I know that, and I agree with you. However, in all fairness I have to admit that he was not the only one that threw a punch. I hit him too."

"I was told as much, but you are the crowned princess. There must be exceptions."

"I disagree with you on that point. Colonel Pickrell, it would be discriminative to disqualify Hollywood unless you disqualified me as well. After all, I am the one that initiated the fight. I threw the first punch. He landed the first one, but I started it."

"Why?"

"Because he was getting potentially abusive with the female bartender. I tried to step in to help. I lost my temper first and swung."

"Still, being who you are, you are allowed some leeway in your behavior."

Alexa shook her head. "Colonel Pickrell, I have designed a unique punishment for Hollywood for striking me. If you want to throw him out for fighting, then you must do the same to me. That behavior is unacceptable even for someone in my position."

"You want me to throw you both out?"

"I want you to discipline two pilots that broke the rules. However, in doing so, there is a request I would like to make. Even though this is a flight competition, it is also flight training. Hollywood and I are both good pilots. We could benefit from this training. My request of you would be to allow to us to stay and complete our training. Disqualify us from the Top Gun competition if you must, but do not deny us the opportunity to hone our skills."

The Colonel nodded his head. "You know, before you arrived here, I had heard that you were quite wise for someone of your years. You have just proven that to be true. You understand consequences for your actions. That is very mature, but you also understand putting the military's needs above your own. You're right about Hollywood's talent. He is one of the best I have ever seen."

"I know, so we must keep him in the force."

"Very well, Lieutenant Commander Washington. I will take your request under advisement and let the two of you know on Monday. Right now I must visit him and get his side of the story."

"Thank you for your time, Colonel Pickrell. Sorry to have bothered you on your day off."

"I'm glad we got this out of the way. See you Monday at 0700."

Monday morning when the pilots arrived for class, the Colonel was already there. After everyone was seated, he said, "This morning before we start class I would like to discuss the events that took place Friday evening. I got wind of the fact that two of my pilots were involved in a bar fight. Now I want to make it absolutely clear to you all that fighting is unacceptable behavior! These two ignored the rules, so I'm left with no choice but to impose the discipline that they could not impose on themselves! Lieutenant Commander Washington and 1st Lieutenant Barnes, both of you come up here to the front!" Alexa and Hollywood both stood and made their way to the front of the room to where the Colonel pointed. They didn't even look at each other, only stood at attention with eyes on their superior officer. Pacing in front of them, Colonel Pickrell demanded, "Both of you drop and give me a hundred pushups now!" Both aviators did as they were told. Alexa focused on the Colonel's words as she did as she was told. "Both of you have disgraced this program! Because of your actions, you are immediately removed from the Top Gun competition! Neither of you will be allowed to be named Top Gun this year! You will remain here to learn from your other fellow officers and trainers how to advance your skills, but you will not participate any longer in the contest! Do you hear me?"

"Yes, Colonel Pickrell!" they shouted simultaneously as they continued their pushups.

"And let this be a lesson to the rest of you! Any more fighting and you're out!" The rest of the class just watched and waited until Alexa and Hollywood finished their punishment before returning to their seats.

When Alexa slumped into her chair, George leaned over and whispered, "They were not this hard on you in boot camp. I cannot believe he kicked you out of the competition. That was not supposed to happen."

"I know, but I broke the rules. On the bright side, you will surely win now."

That afternoon when classes and flights were finished, Alexa decided to leave the base instead of have dinner with her brother. She headed to where she knew Lauren would be, arriving at the library shortly before five. When she walked in, she did not see her behind the desk. However, there was another woman, so she questioned her on the redhead's whereabouts and was directed back toward the children's section. Alexa heard Lauren's voice before she saw her, but as she came into the clearing, she noticed the librarian sitting on a small chair with several young children sitting around her on the floor. Lauren was reading them a story, so Alexa merely watched the scene until story time was finished. When the redhead's eyes found her, Alexa gave her most charming smile.

"Flash, hi. What are you doing here?" she inquired pleasantly.

"I wanted to see you. I hope that is all right."

"Well, I am flattered. Do you want a tour of the library?"

"Sure. Show me." Alexa followed the librarian around the facility listening to her tour guide describe the different sections. However, her mind was really on trying to figure out how to truly be alone with the woman. Seeing an opportunity arise when they were upstairs, Alexa pointed toward the back corner of the library and asked, "What is back there?"

"It is a conference room."

"I want to see it. Show me," she insisted. Lauren obliged, unlocking the door and opening it for the princess. Alexa walked into the room. Seeing Lauren hovering in the doorway, she demanded, "Come in here and shut the door."

The redhead hesitated for a moment before complying with the request. She moved to a table toward the front of the room and rested against it. "It is just a conference room," she mentioned.

The princess shook her head as she came to where Lauren was. "It is more than that." She stepped in closely, so they were only a few feet apart. "You seem like a wise woman, Lauren, interesting and well-read."

"I am wise enough not to indulge in things that are not mine," she mumbled, putting more space between them.

"What does that mean?"

"Flash, this is not a game. I know who you are. I know who has your heart. You should not be contemplating the arms of another."

The princess shook her head. "My heart is my own, Lauren. No one owns it except for me. As for contemplating the arms of another, it is my right to seek the company of anyone I choose. That is all I want. I want company from someone who is intriguing. I spend my days with military men who share nothing in common with me except airplanes."

"What makes you believe you and I share things in common, Flash?"

"I do not know. What I do know is that I find you interesting, and I would like the chance to get to know whether or not we share commonalities."

"And if we do?"

"Then we can be friends."

"And if we do not?"

"We can still be friends," Alexa replied, coming toward her again. "Lauren, I like you. I have since that night you berated me. Your strength and intelligence are awe-inspiring. I just want to get to know you. I have no other intentions."

Even though Lauren knew deep inside herself that it was probably a bad idea, she found herself nodding in agreement. She knew it could be dangerous to do so, especially with the way she felt whenever the heir was around, but she couldn't help it. Alexa was one of the most disarmingly attractive women she had ever seen, but she figured she could be a friend to the future queen. She knew nothing more could become of it, but she thought she should not deny herself the fun of getting to know someone new even if it was only for a short while. "Very well, Flash."

"Great. Would you like to have dinner with me tonight?"

"Certainly. Where would you like to go?"

"Wherever you want."

"Should you be mindful of taking me out in public? After all, you are known to be involved with someone else. Will the media make this less innocent than it is?"

"You are probably right, but I would like to spend time with you. What shall we do instead?"

"Come to my place. I will make dinner for you."

"Are you sure? I would not want to go out of your way for me."

"I am sure. I get off work in just a few minutes. We can go together."

"Where do you live?"

"Not too far from here, about a mile towards the beach. I have my car, so we can drive."

"Wonderful. I will wait for you then."

Minutes later both women were headed outside. Lauren directed them toward her car. Alexa had never seen anything quite like it. The car was well-worn, lacking paint on several sections and displaying rust in others. Nevertheless, she got into the passenger's side without comment. Listening to the engine struggle to come to life, she inquired, "How long have you had this car?"

"Fourteen years, ever since I was sixteen. I bought it myself."

"You are thirty years old? I cannot believe that. You do not look more than your early twenties."

"A few weeks shy of it actually. I have a young face. How old are you?"

"Twenty-five." There was a pause before the princess asked, "Have you thought about getting some other transportation? This car sounds like it is not going to make it much longer."

"I know, but she is all I have and buying a car would only set me back from my goal of moving. I would rather just keep her until I am settled somewhere new."

"If you could buy a new car now though, what kind would you get?"

Lauren shrugged. "I do not know. I am partial to the Volkswagen. After all this one has done well for me. She might be sore on the eyes, but she has never caused me major problems."

"What kind of Volkswagen? The convertible Bug or maybe the Jetta?"

"No, I think I want a Passat wagon."

"What color?"

"That funky dark blue that they have with leather seats, not black leather though. That would be too hot in the summers."

Alexa nodded her head in agreement. A few minutes later they arrived at Lauren's house. Pulling into the driveway, the redhead shut off the engine and flung open her door. "This is where you live?" the princess questioned, her eyes scanning around her. The librarian had a quaint little home facing the water. "This is a great house."

"Thanks. It was the only thing my mother owned when she died."

"When did you mother pass away?"

"About two years ago."

"I am sorry to hear that. And you lost your father at a young age. That must be difficult."

Lauren shrugged. "I had a step-father, but he went to jail when I was a teenager. He was a miserable alcoholic not worth anything. He was a mean man. He terrified me when I was a kid."

"Any siblings? Other relatives?"

"None. It is just me. It was hard to move back in here when she died because of the memories, but then I realized I had to be practical. I was living in this little rundown house with some friends, and I could save more money by living in my childhood home. I will be glad when I can get rid of it, though."

"I am sure it will sell for a handsome price. You have some prime ocean real estate."

"The land is worth more than the house. The house needs work, but I just do not have the motivation to make improvements to something I will soon abandon."

"Understandable."

"Come inside. The bugs are starting to bite." Alexa followed her hostess inside the home. The librarian had it sparsely but functionally decorated. "Would you like the grand tour?"

"Of course. Show me around your place."

Slowly they wandered through the first floor before heading upstairs. Pausing in front of a door, Lauren looked at Alexa. "You will have to forgive the mess. I was not expecting visitors."

"It is fine."

Opening the door, the redhead said, "This is my room."

Without waiting for permission, Alexa walked into it, stopping in the middle and slowly turning to take all of it into her mind. There was an antique full brass bed with the linens in a ball at the end of it. Clothes were draped over the one chair. There was a window that faced the water. The door of the closet was ajar slightly with a striped cotton robe hanging from the corner of it. "It is cozy."

"I do not spend a lot of time in here. Most of the time I sit downstairs in my study. There is a view of the water."

Alexa nodded her head. "The solitude must be nice. I do not have much time to myself, but there are times when I just want space."

"I understand that. When I was living with friends, I felt the same way. Well, come on. Let us go back downstairs, and I can start on dinner. What would you like?"

"Whatever you want. Would you like some help?" Alexa inquired as they went to the kitchen.

Lauren smiled. "Thank you for the offer, but I hardly see you as the type to roll up her sleeves and cook. No, you just sit here at the table and keep me company. Would you like something to drink?"

"Sure. Would you mind if I made myself a little more comfortable? Sometimes this dress uniform can drive me delirious."

"By all means, make yourself at home, Flash," Lauren answered with a smile as she turned to the refrigerator.

Alexa hung her cover from the spindle of one of the kitchen chairs and then proceeded to untuck her dress shirt. Unbuttoning it she hung it from the other spindle, so she was only in her white pants and a white t-shirt. "Are you sure I cannot assist you in some way?" she inquired, moving across the room to where the redhead was.

The librarian turned to answer but found herself staring at the heir's chest, which was suddenly much closer than moments before. Struggling to look upward, she met dark eyes and a charming grin. Her heart started pounding at the sight. Taking a calming breath, she answered, "If you keep offering, I may take you up on that. However, I really would prefer it if you would just sit down and drink some wine," she replied, putting a hand on Alexa's midsection and nudging her back to the table. However, the princess didn't budge, compelling the older woman to use more force. Feeling Alexa's stomach muscles flex under her touch, Lauren thought she would get lightheaded.

Alexa's body quivered as Lauren touched her. It was a strange sensation, one that had never happened to her in her life. Hearing the uneven exhale from her company, she knew Lauren felt something as well. She went with her instincts and wrapped her arms around her hostess. Blue eyes met hers again. "It is okay, Lauren," she whispered softly.

The librarian shook her head slowly. "Flash, I hardly know you."

"I know, but I feel a connection to you, Lauren. I do not know why."

"Neither do I. We are from different worlds."

"Sometimes that can be a good thing."

Breaking the spell between them, Lauren broke out of the embrace and requested, "Please sit down. I will bring you some wine."

The pilot did as she was told, going back to the table. The rest of the time was spent in relative silence as Alexa drank and watched her hostess preparing their meal. When it was ready, they ate in the small kitchen. "This is delicious, Lauren. Thank you for cooking for me."

"You are very welcome, Flash. Even you crazy pilots deserve to eat," she teased. "The military men that come into the bar complain about that terrible food over there. Cooking for the masses is never easy."

"No, I imagine it is not. I have never been to the mess hall, though, so I cannot not speak to the food."

"Then how do you eat?"

"My brother George and I have a cook at our house."

"You have a house on the base? You do not stay in the barracks?"

"No. That is the one accommodation we have been afforded. It was deemed unsafe for George and me to stay there. Security is easier to control by staying at the house on Officer's Row."

"Speaking of security, were those men at the bar with you that night on your detail?"

"Yes. They watch out for George and me. I feel sorry for them at times. The two of us are not the easiest to guard. Both of us crave adventure. We have interesting hobbies that make my mother cringe."

"Such as?"

"Horse racing, stock car driving, sky diving, mountain climbing, swimming with sharks and alligators. Crazy things. If we can get an adrenaline rush off of it, we will try it at least once."

"She must be beside herself with worry every time either of you leaves the house," she said with a laugh. "Why can you not have normal hobbies such as golf?"

Alexa laughed as well. "You sound like her. She asks that question all the time."

"Because she wants to instill some sanity in the two of you."

"What about you? What are your hobbies?"

"Safe things like reading. I have been known to be a bit of a card and pool shark too."

"Really? That seems unlike you. My little Miss Innocent hustles the tables?"

"Only in fun. I am not a gambler by any means. I just enjoy poker and pool. If I can win extra money at the same time, why should I deny myself the pleasure?"

"You have a point there. Perhaps we can play sometime?"

"That would be interesting. I would have everything to win and nothing to lose. You on the other hand would have everything to lose."

"Sounds like you should take me up on that offer then."

"I have a sneaking suspicion that you might be a decent player."

"You will never know unless we play. We can play after dinner. Do you have any cards?"

"Of course I have cards. I will think about it. In the meantime though, you need to eat."

Half an hour later both were finished eating. Alexa ignored Lauren's protest and helped clean the kitchen by washing dishes while the redhead put away the food. As Lauren watched the princess at her sink, hands immersed in a sink full of sudsy water, she found herself bewildered and fascinated by the woman in her home. Alexa was nothing like she would have imagined her to be. In fact, the princess was incredibly real and seemed genuinely interested in cultivating their friendship. Eyes straying down the aviator's strong back, they came to the white fitted pants. Lauren ogled for a minute but then realized it didn't appear as if the Lieutenant Commander had bothered to wear any undergarments under her pants. Struck with that thought, her pulse began to race as she chugged the rest of the wine in her glass. Coming to the sink, she slipped a hand on Alexa's hip as the other hand eased her empty glass into the hot water.

Alexa felt the petite body against her back. It felt incredibly good, but she didn't say so in case it was not Lauren's attention to be alluring. Slowly as if unconsciously though, she pressed her body back toward the one against her. She felt the hand that was resting against her hip tense at the action, even though neither said anything. For the rest of the time Alexa was doing dishes, Lauren lingered near her. Neither spoke, both too afraid to voice what could possibly be in their minds. Instead both pretended it was perfectly natural to be acting the way they were.

Finally the princess turned around as she wiped her wet hands on a dishtowel. "Well, thank you again for dinner. It was a pleasant surprise."

"You are very welcome, Flash. I am glad you enjoyed it."

"Perhaps we can play cards now or maybe go for a walk on the beach?" she suggested.

"A walk sounds nice."

"Good. Let us go then."

Heading outside to the back porch, both of them discarded their shoes and socks before walking out onto the sand. Lauren took the lead in the direction they were going. Strolling closely along the water's edge, they would have looked like any other couple out there, but Lauren knew the truth. The woman next to her was one of the most powerful women in the world even though right then she looked just like anyone else. Taking in the scenery, Lauren glanced back over her shoulder. She was surprised to see Alexa's security detail trailing behind at a distance.

"It must be difficult for you to have any privacy," she mentioned, sparing a glace at her friend. "Security is right behind us."

Alexa nodded. "They have been with me the whole time. They followed us back to your house and have been sitting out on the street."

"Why did you not tell me? I would have invited them inside. They probably have not eaten. I should at least offer them dinner."

"That is sweet of you. When we return if you are so inclined to extend that invitation, feel free to do so."

There was a pause in conversation and then the redhead inquired, "Will you tell me how you got the name Flash?"

"You mean it is not obvious?" she asked with a sparkling smile.

"Do not tell me you got it for your beaming grin alone."

"Of course not. That was just an added bonus. The real reason is because I am fast."

"Fast in what? Your plane?"

"In everything, planes, cars, horses, women," she whispered. "I like speed."

"So does that mean you like easy girls?"

The brunette shook her head. "I would not call them easy as much as I would determined. They know what they want, and they cut to the chase. No pretending to be something they are not. You strike me as that kind of woman."

"Do I? Why do you say that?"

"Because you are a thoughtful mature woman. I think you understand the potential consequences of any action you might take. You impress me as someone who knows what she wants in life and exactly how to go about getting it in all aspects, including sex. To me that is not being easy. It is practical, and I have a great respect for that."

"Are you saying you think I sleep around? Because that is what you seem to be implying," she countered with an edge to her voice.

"Not at all. To the contrary, I do not think you sleep around. However, I think you are the type that when you find someone you are interested in that way, you do not dally in child's play. You do not allow yourself to fall foolishly in love. Instead you glean what you need from that person and allow them to do the same to you, and then you make an amiable parting without the complication of emotions."

"You have derived all of this from me over one dinner?" Lauren asked with a chuckle. "How interesting."

"We are kindred spirits in that way, Lauren. I know this much of you only because I am the same. I never complicate sex with feelings either. Although I do know when a woman wants me, I also know when a woman wants me to fall in love with her, and that has just never happened."

"You have never been in love?"

"Never. Have you?"

"No," the redhead confessed.

An hour later the women returned to the house. Lauren did in fact take the initiative to offer Alexa's security dinner, to which both men gratefully accepted. The librarian left Alexa in the study and then took her other guests to the kitchen. She returned ten minutes later to find the princess looking out the window.

"Thank you for feeding my men. You are quite gracious," the taller woman said.

"It is a pleasure to cook for people. I enjoy it."

Turning to her hostess, Alexa smiled. "I believe you owe me a card game now."

Lauren shook her head. "I do not think that is the best thing we could do at the moment."

"Why not? Are you afraid I will beat you?"

Lauren didn't answer for a moment. She was afraid of playing cards, for she didn't know what the stakes might be in such a game. The princess could bet anything and everything at her disposal, and Lauren feared what she might lose. However, she didn't say that. Instead she answered, "We must set the ground rules if we are to play."

"Fine. Whatever you want."

"First of all, what game do you want to play?"

"Poker," the princess suggested.

"What about Texas Hold'em? Have you ever played that?"

"Yes, I have played that. If that is the game you want, Lauren, that is what we will play."

"All right. That is what we will play then. I have some chips we can use."

"Good. Where would you like to play?"

"Let us go into the den. We can use the coffee table." Grabbing the chips and the cards, the librarian led the way into the other room. She took a seat on the floor, so Alexa copied her.

The brunette began to divide their chips as Lauren shuffled the deck. "We have to decide what the stakes are. What do you want to play for, Ms. Fulton?"

The older woman shrugged. "What are you prepared to lose, Flash?" she inquired with bravado.

Thinking on that for a moment, Alexa replied, "If I lose, I will buy you that new car you want. How is that for a wager? What are you prepared to lose, Lauren?"

Lauren sat there mute for a second as she thought about what had just been put on offer. Alexa had just staked a new car in their friendly game of poker. That was hardly what she had expected, and she didn't know how to respond. There was nothing she had that could even equal it. "That is a high stake, Flash. I am not sure I have something to rival that."

"Sure you do. You just have to think on it."

"I have my entire savings, but I do not wish to gamble my hard earned money away now that I am so close to reaching my goals."

"Money has no meaning to me. I would not take it anyway."

"This house will fetch a good price, but I will need it until I move."

"I do not want your home either."

"Then what do you want, Flash?"

Giving a sly grin, the princess inquired, "Can you think of nothing enticing to me?"

Seeing the heir make a dramatic sweep with her eyes over Lauren's body, Lauren realized what Alexa had in mind. The unspoken request made heat suffuse her skin as a knot formed in her stomach at the very thought of what the princess was proposing. It made her wonder if she would rather win or lose, because both rewards were equally tempting. Nodding her head, Lauren answered, "Very well, Flash. If I lose, I will give you one night."

"No deal. I am wagering a car, Lauren. You have to put up more than a night."

"Fine. A week."

"The rest of the summer," Alexa bargained.

"This game could take the rest of the summer, Flash, if you are as good as I am."

"That is true. A month then. Surely one of us will win within two months."

"A month. We have a deal," Lauren answered, extending her hand.

Alexa shook it. For the rest of the evening the two fiercely played cards. Neither spoke except to deter the other, but it was clear the game was still in fun. When it was close to midnight, Alexa mentioned that she had to get back to the base. Lauren consulted her watch and agreed. Both of them stood and stretched from being on the floor so long.

"Should I trust that you will not steal any of my chips?" the princess asked in jest. "Or should I count them before I leave?" Neither had made great progress of winning over the other's chips in their game so far, Lauren only having a slight advantage.

The redhead laughed. Moving to her guest, she put her hands on Alexa's waist. "Please, Flash. You have made me unsure of whether I want to win or lose our wager. I will not touch the chips. They will stay exactly like that until we can pick it up again."

"Tomorrow?" the pilot proposed, bringing her arms around her hostess.

"I look forward to it. Come around for dinner. I will fix you anything you like."

With a smile Alexa cupped the redhead's cheek in her hand. "You are a sweet woman, Lauren Fulton. I am in grave danger around you."

"Surely not, Flash. A woman of your power and strength could resist even the most alluring of wiles if you wanted to."

"I am not sure I want to," the princess whispered, leaning in a planting a kiss on Lauren's cheek. "Thank you again for dinner." With that she wandered into the kitchen where her men were sitting involved in conversation. The princess put on her dress shirt again and picked her cover up off the table. Her security stood and headed for the door ahead of her, stopping to thank Lauren for their meal again. When Alexa got to the front door, she waved her men off saying she would meet them in the car. She placed her cover on her head and then smiled at the redhead. "This has been a wonderful evening."

Lauren nodded in agreement. "Tell me, Flash. Has anyone ever mentioned how sexy you look in your uniform?" she teased, her hand lazily drawing a circular pattern over the pilot's stomach. She felt those muscles twitch again under her fingers.

"You are the first," Alexa answered, leaning into the touch. She lowered her head and kissed the redhead's cheek, lingering for a moment to take in the scent of her hair.

Lauren felt a shuddered breath leave her at the feeling of a nose nuzzling against her ear. She was acutely aware of her own state of growing arousal and furthermore knew the princess was cognizant of it as well. However, she felt empowered by the fact that Alexa was not shy about displaying her own mounting desires. Emboldened by the need she felt coming from the brunette, the smaller woman let her hands wander up around Alexa's neck, her fingers running along the edge of dark hair. Her lips pressed against the aviator's jaw. "Flash," she murmured.

"Yes?" Alexa whispered, bound by the suddenly sensuality of the moment.

"You better go."

Alexa chuckled and pulled back, knowing Lauren had intentionally broken the spell. She nodded her head and took a deep breath. "Good night, Lauren."

"Night, Flash. See you tomorrow."

"I am looking forward to it. Shall I bring anything?"

"Just yourself."

"I will see you then. Sweet dreams."

"You too."

The following day seemed incredibly slow to Alexa. Class was dull compared to where her reflections were leading her. A certain redhead with blue eyes dominated every spare moment of her thoughts. As she got into the cockpit of her plane for her flight that day, she knew she had to focus on her job. She took a deep breath in order to regain her senses, but her eyes were drawn to the photograph pinned to the instrument panel. The picture of she and Meredith made her heart sink for a moment.

She had forgotten about her girlfriend completely after only a matter of a week. Meredith had not entered her thoughts once, but as she stared at the photograph, she remembered that the woman staring back at her was to become her bride. She sighed as her world came crashing back into reality. Being with Lauren had a way of making her forget whom she was, and she loved that about the librarian, but she knew she couldn't truly deny her destiny. Putting the picture in her pocket, she knew she had to forget about the women and concentrate on her flying.

When her flight was finished and she had returned to the observation deck with her fellow pilots, George looked at her in concern. "Are you all right, Lex? That was some of the worse flying I have ever seen from you. You barely won your match against a mediocre pilot."

"I am fine. I was just distracted."

He grinned. "By a certain person you spent time with yesterday?" he questioned lightly.

"No, by Meredith if you must know."

"What about Lady Adams?"

"I was just thinking that I should bring her down some weekend. I miss her," she lied, but she knew to say her thoughts were with Lauren would not be appropriate, even with her brother.

"Well, you can always invite her. I am going to have Kelly and Morgan come see me in a few weeks. Perhaps she can join us then? We can have some family time."

"Mere is not family," Alexa mentioned.

"It is only a matter of time," he responded. Changing the subject, he asked, "Do you have plans again this evening?"

"As a matter of fact I do. I am having dinner at Lauren's again. We have a bet to settle."

"What kind of bet?"

"That is between us. I will be home late again hopefully."

"When do I get to meet this woman?"

"What is the point in that?"

George shrugged. "You seem interested in her. I thought you might want me to meet her."

"You can see her at the bar all you like. There is no need for more of a relationship between you unless you are looking for company outside your marriage, George."

"Do not be ridiculous. I am looking for no such thing. I merely was asking to meet the woman who seems to have charmed you. What is the harm in that?"

"There is no harm. I suppose I just feel strangely about it."

"Why is that?"

"Because I feel things with her, George, that I have not felt before. I do not know what is going on with me."

"What do you mean?"

Alexa looked around, but the rest of the pilots were looking skyward discussing other things. Looking at her brother, she leaned to his ear and whispered, "She touches me, and I..."

"You what?" he asked softly, leading them further away from the group.

"I cannot say."

"I am your brother, Alexa. You can tell me anything."

"This has never happened to me, George. A woman has never affected me so."

"What happens when she touches you? Why is she even touching you?"

"It is innocent touching, but my reaction is not. She makes me...tremble," she breathed as if she was afraid to voice it.

"What?" George asked in apparent shock.

Alexa nodded. "I know it sounds crazy, George. I do not even know if she knows what she does. No woman has ever made that happen."

"Listen to me, Lex. You are the most powerful woman in the world outside of Mother. You are strong and confident. A little woman like that is no match for your strength. You can resist her if you want."

"That is just it. I like the feeling. I want to indulge in it. Meredith does not make me feel this way. No woman has ever made me feel this way."

"Lex, you have one of the most beautiful women in the world as a girlfriend."

"I know."

"Look, you can have anyone you want. I am not trying to talk you out of having a relationship with someone else. My concern is that you might fall in love with someone else. You are talking nonsense about this woman. Sleep with her if you want but do not under any circumstances fall in love."

"I will not fall in love with Lauren. I am just anxious to sleep with her. Having her touch me innocently just reminds me of that fact. I am sure that is all."

"Are you?"

"Yes. I am sure." However, she was not truly, but she decided she did not want to discuss it further with her brother. She knew she probably shouldn't have brought it up in the first place. Going back to where the other pilots were, she closed the discussion.

That evening her security team drove her to Lauren's house. They had done her the favor of getting her flowers for the redhead that afternoon while she was in class, so she took them and the bag of clothes she wanted to change into up to the door and knocked. The smaller woman answered with a smile after just a moment.

"Good evening, Lauren. How are you?" she inquired extending the flowers to her.

Lauren smiled and flushed slightly. "Thank you. These are beautiful. Come on in. Bring your men in as well. They need to eat too."

"Are you sure?"

"Of course. I fixed enough for all of us."

"All right. Thank you. You are too good to them." Retrieving her two bodyguards, they all went inside. "If it is all right with you, I would like to change clothes. I am tired of wearing this uniform every time I see you."

"Whatever you would like. Suit yourself. We will be in the kitchen when you are ready."

While Alexa was gone, Lauren took her other guests into the kitchen. "What can I get the two of you to drink?" she inquired. Both of them answered politely but then just stood there somewhat awkwardly. Gesturing to the table, she said, "Please sit down. Make yourselves at home." They did as they were told. The librarian poured their drinks and then moved to the table to set them down. However, seeing the look on her guests' faces, she inquired, "Is something wrong?"

The older man, Roger, shook his head. "Ms. Fulton, on the contrary, you are a gracious hostess. We just aren't used to being treated this way by her highness's company of friends."

"Oh, I see. Well, you are always welcome in my home. I enjoy the company."

"Well, we enjoy coming here, Ms. Fulton. You are a pleasure to be with, and you make Lex happy. She likes coming to see you."

"That is good to know," Lauren answered. "I like spending time with her as well."

When the princess came to the kitchen, she was dressed in casual khaki pants and a button down shirt. She smiled as she saw the table set for four. Even though she wanted some time with Lauren alone, she was pleased that the older woman treated her men as well as she was treated. Taking her seat, the four of them had their meal together before security made their excuses to take to their stations around the house on guard while the two women had time together.

Looking across the table at her hostess, Alexa smiled. "Thank you for dinner. It was wonderful."

"I am glad you enjoyed it."

"And thank you for being so good to my men. They do not get that often."

"I know. As I told them, they will always be welcome in my house, Flash. All three of you will."

"We appreciate that, Lauren. Now let me do these dishes for you," she said, rising from the table with her plate and heading to the sink.

"You do not have to do that, you know."

"I know, but I want to in order to show my gratitude," the princess said with a smile. She started the water and poured in soap like she had done the previous night before going to the table for more dishes.

Lauren just sat there for a moment and watched the heir being so domestic. Finally, though, she made a move to put away the leftover food. She finished before Alexa, though, so she had time to watch her uninterrupted. Lauren gazed over her guest's frame. Alexa looked fabulous to her in her chosen outfit. Moving closer to her, Lauren put her hand on the pilot's hip and questioned, "How is that coming?"

Feeling the hand on her body, Alexa forced herself to take a normal breath. She wasn't used to the way she felt yet when Lauren touched her, but she didn't want to let on that it made her feel anything other than neutral quite yet. "All is fine." She felt the librarian's hand slowly move from her hip along the belt of her pants until it reached her lower back before it started to stroke lightly. She couldn't help a quiver at the touch, but she still said nothing. The light petting continued through the rest of the dishes.

When Alexa was finished, she slowly turned around to face the woman behind her. Lauren remained where she was, so the two women were standing closely together. Smiling into dark eyes, the shorter woman could see that her touching had affected the heir, but she wasn't sure how to act on the information. Not knowing quite what to say just then, she said softly, "Rumor has it that you like visiting me."

"Rumor, huh? I could only imagine who might start such a rumor," Alexa replied with a chuckle, knowing her men probably said something to that effect to Lauren.

"Is it true?"

"How could that be anything but true, Lauren? You feed me. You play poker with me. You help me forget myself for a while, and I like that. I like you," she added quietly, slipping her arms around the woman's waist.

"I like you too, Flash."

After a moment of just gazing into each other's eyes, Alexa whispered, "If I were to kiss you right now, would you be upset?"

"Why would I be upset? After all, you kissed me last night for my dinner efforts," she teased lightly, her arms tightening their hold around Alexa's waist.

With that permission the princess cupped Lauren's face. Her thumb grazed across her cheek lightly. A moment passed in silence before Alexa leaned down and kissed the redhead's soft cheek sweetly. Her lips lingered longer than necessary, but when she pulled away it was only a few inches. Their noses grazed for a moment before Alexa murmured, "I want to kiss you again."

Lauren could only nod before she felt it. The mouth of the sexiest woman she had ever known pressed against her own. Her lips instantly began to tingle at the sensation, and she instinctually opened her mouth to gasp in surprise but found the sound transform into a muffled moan as their tongues met. She felt her knees begin to weaken and wrapped her arms tighter around Alexa for support as the methodical onslaught continued for several moments.

Alexa felt the connection all the way through her body. The energy and attraction that had passed between them unvoiced for the past several days was becoming apparent in that moment as their embrace became tighter. Neither woman wanted to break the contact. Finally, though, Alexa could feel herself getting lightheaded and pulled back, bracing herself against the counter with her hand.

The older woman just smiled demurely. She had no idea what the aviator was thinking just then, because her face showed a plethora of emotion. Not knowing what to say, she teased gently, "That was some thank you kiss."

"Wow," the tall woman mumbled. However, after a second she said, "I can honestly say that is the first time that has ever happened to me."

"What?"

"I feel."

Lauren stepped in closer, sensing the vulnerability Alexa was feeling. She slipped her arms around the princess's waist. "You feel what, Flash?"

"Just that. I feel. No woman has ever made me feel before. Well, made me feel anything other than ardent," she joked.

"Are you saying you do not feel ardent with me?" Lauren joked.

"I did not say that. I just mean that I feel much more. I like being with you so much, Lauren."

"I like being with you too, Flash. And I certainly do not mind being kissed that way," she jested.

Nodding her head, the princess gazed into blue eyes. The emotion held within their depths told her that Lauren was being truthful. "Perhaps we could do that again then?" she proposed.

"Perhaps," Lauren replied with a shy smile. With that both women pulled each other closer and continued an unhurried exploration of each other's mouths. Lauren felt like she was in ecstasy in the arms of such a charming woman. Alexa was much more than she had even imagined. The pilot enraptured her with her very presence, and the feeling of the taller woman's kiss made her forget everything for a moment, even the magnitude of the woman who held her. Right then Alexa was not the crowned heir of her country but a simple Navy pilot whom she found herself adoring more each time she was with her.

Emotions swirled within Alexa as she clung to the redhead tightly, their lips communicating what she couldn't express just then. No woman had ever stirred her so much as Lauren did, which surprised her given their short acquaintance. The princess found the librarian beautiful but also intelligent and interesting. When she had bet Hollywood in the bar that she could bed the redhead, she had no idea how much treasure rested beneath the pretty exterior. Alexa was completely captivated by the smaller woman. She could sense strange feelings wrapping themselves around her heart but had no idea what they were, only that she didn't want them to leave.

Finally pulling back, the brunette smiled at Lauren. "Shall we go for our sunset walk or do you want to skip right to the poker game?" she inquired teasingly.

"How about our walk?" Lauren answered, taking Alexa's hand. Together they made their way to the beach. Removing their shoes, they took each other's hand and strolled along the water's edge. Both of them knew Alexa's security was behind them, but they ignored them in favor of each other's attention. Through their entire stroll, neither woman would let go of the other's hand.

Back at the house once the sun had gone to bed, the two women sat on the floor in the living room playing cards. Alexa spent most of her time that night gazing across the coffee table at her company rather than concentrating on her cards. Likewise Lauren appeared equally distracted and not many hands were played. Instead the two women just looked deeply into each other's eyes under the pretense of trying to read each other's tells, but both of them knew the real reason. At that moment both of them would have rather been in each other's arms continuing what had started in the kitchen.

Finally when it was late, Alexa mentioned that she should probably be going. Lauren nodded her head in agreement. Both women stood from their spots on the floor and headed toward the door. However, Alexa lingered for a moment as her arms came around Lauren's waist. "Do you have plans for tomorrow?" she whispered, nuzzling the red hair.

"Actually, I do. I am having dinner with some friends," she answered quietly.

Not expecting that response, Alexa pulled back to look into the librarian's eyes. Trying to play off her disappointment, she inquired, "Oh, well what about the next night?"

Lauren shook her head. "I have plans every day until Sunday, Flash. Perhaps we can get together Sunday afternoon?"

Alexa nodded her head in agreement even though the thought of being without the redhead's company that long was disheartening. "Sure. Sunday afternoon then. What would you like to do?"

"Whatever you want."

"Well, I will think on that then. I will call you Saturday if that is all right." Alexa proposed, releasing the older woman and stuffing her hands into her pockets.

Looking at the pilot, Lauren sensed that something was wrong. However, she wasn't sure bringing it up was the best thing to do at that moment, so she merely nodded her head. "Great. I look forward to it, Flash."

"Well, good night, Lauren," Alexa said, leaning and kissing her on the cheek.

The librarian's heart sunk at the contact, for she was hoping for something else, but she didn't say so. Instead she just smiled pleasantly. "Good night, Flash. See you Sunday."

When Alexa arrived back at her quarters on the base, she saw that George was still awake. He was lounging on the sofa watching TV when she plopped down next to him. "You look like you had a bad night," he mentioned.

Alexa shrugged. "No, on the contrary, it was fine. I just am not used to being brushed off I suppose."

"She brushed you off?"

"I asked if I could see her tomorrow, but she said no. She has other plans. She has plans for the rest of the week," the princess grumbled.

"Sounds like you are jealous. Lex, just let it go."

"I know I should, but I like being with her, George. She is like no other woman I know."

Her brother shook his head. "You should be careful with this one. Sounds as if you might be falling for her."

"No," Alexa denied. "I merely have carnal interests."

"If you say so. How is that going by the way?"

"We kissed tonight, but that is all."

"Are you going to give me any more than that? Come on. I have to live vicariously through you these days."

Shrugging her shoulders, the heir was silent for a moment. She wasn't sure if she should tell her brother how it felt. "It was nice. She is a good kisser. I cannot wait to see what else she can do," she jested with a sly smile.

He laughed. "That is more like it. That is the sister I know. I was beginning to worry this woman had put the squeeze on your heart."

"No, she is just another girl, George. I will sleep with her and move on."

George gave her a friendly knock on the shoulder and mentioned, "Let me know how good she is, will you?"

"Of course I will. Right now though I am going to go up to bed. Good night."

"Good night."

Heading up the stairs, the princess went into her bedroom and flopped down on the bed. Looking up at the ceiling, her mind drifted to a certain redhead. Being with Lauren made her feel things, new things, exciting things, but Alexa also had started to feel something else, a gnawing in the pit of her stomach at the thought of being apart for several days. She had never felt it before with any other woman, and she knew she didn't like the feeling.

Back at the librarian's house, Lauren had settled down in her bed for the night. As she sat there reading her book, her thoughts kept straying to Alexa. She could tell that the pilot was upset as she left that night. Even though she didn't say it, Lauren felt it in the distance of their good bye. Part of her felt bad for evoking such emotion in the taller woman, but at the same time there was a sense of power that came with being able to dictate someone else's feelings. It made her feel as if she and the aviator were becoming closer emotionally, something that pleased her, although her heart was just as intrigued with Alexa's sexual interest. The few kisses they had shared had started a smolder deep within her, and she knew it might overtake her if the princess continued to be so sensually alluring. It had been a long time since she had allowed a woman to be sexually close, but there was something about Alexa that completely put her at ease and captivated her. She couldn't help herself. She was drawn to the dark-haired woman in a way she never had been to anyone. Settling herself down to sleep, Lauren sighed. She wondered what might happen between them.

Over the next few days Alexa didn't leave the house after flight school. Instead she just hung around watching TV and doing what George considered moping. However, by Saturday he had convinced her to join him and the fellow pilots on the beach for some beer and volleyball. Alexa spent the first part of the day sitting watching the water, but George dragged her into a game against two fellow aviators. Given that they were so good at it though, they continued to play on the same team. After awhile Hollywood decided to get in on the game with another pilot, and the fierce competition began. The two royals played their hardest, not wanting to be bested by their nemesis, but the game was close though.

A little ways down the beach Lauren was walking hand in hand with her best friend of many years, Mary Johnston. She had just recalled the details of her first kisses with the sexy pilot as the redhead noticed a volleyball game in progress. Three gorgeous shirtless men in swim trunks and one woman in a tank top and tiny shorts greeted her eyes. Her breath caught a little when she realized that it was Alexa. However, her thoughts were distracted by Mary's voice.

"Good Lord, do you see what I do? I've never seen men with such fine bodies!" Mary exclaimed with a giggle. "Look at that one playing with the woman. Does he have a washboard stomach or what? Oh, I could just faint."

Lauren smiled but didn't respond at first. She just watched as they continued to walk a little closer. However, she suddenly sensed that the princess saw her, because Alexa seemed to look right at her and freeze. It made Lauren's own feet stop. The moment was brief though as Hollywood suddenly went for a spike and sent the ball flying right into Alexa's face, so hard it knocked her sunglasses off into the sand.

Grunting in discomfort Alexa immediately touched her nose with the back of her hand. When it came away stained red, she realized she was bleeding profusely. George rushed over to her. However, she brushed him off as she continued to stare down the sand toward Lauren.

Knowing she had been spotted, the librarian dragged Mary along with her up to where the pilots were standing. "Flash, are you all right?" she inquired in concern.

Alexa frowned at Mary but replied, "I am just fine." She sent a scowl in Hollywood's direction but said nothing to him.

"I think you might have a broken nose, Lex," George mentioned. "We should take you to the hospital. I will have security bring the car down to the beach."

However, Lauren offered, "I can take you. My house is just down the beach a little ways. My car is right there."

"No thanks. I would not want to interrupt your date," Alexa grumbled, leaning down to pick up her broken sunglasses.

Mary giggled at the statement as her eyes roamed over George's body. "We aren't on a date. Lauren is the only one between us that likes the women. In fact, she just can't shut up about you," she teased.

"That is not true," defended the redhead as a blush rose to her face.

"Come on, Lauren. Don't deny it now. Weren't you just telling me how lightheaded you got when this sexy aviator kissed you?"

Unable to form a response to the question, Lauren just shook her head at her best friend and mumbled, "You do not know when to shut up, do you?"

"I'm just trying to get you two lovebirds together. After all, who can resist such a fine specimen?" Mary joked putting her hand on Alexa's arm. "You need to c