The Ailing Queen E-Book

A. E. Williamson

• Herausgeber: BooxAi
• Kategorie: Gesellschafts- und Liebesromane
• Sprache: Englisch
• Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2023

Beschreibung

Helen Winningham, Queen of Ginastovia, is beloved by nearly everyone in the kingdom. Everyone that is, except her callous cousin Lord Jacob, of noble birth. But of all those who adore the Queen, her chief advisor,  Oliver, loves her the most. So when she confides in Oliver to help her reconnect with her long-lost son in hopes of making him the next King of Ginastovia, Oliver instantly obliges her request. However, the pursuit of finding out the truth of her son is more complicated than Oliver anticipated. After the Queen mysteriously falls ill, Oliver must promptly return to Ginastovia to aid in her recovery. Will Oliver be able to save his dear Queen before it’s too late? Will he be able to find her long-lost son or will the vile Lord Jacob be next in line to take the throne?

Leseprobe

A. E. Williamson

The Ailing Queen

All rights reserved

Copyright © 2023 by A. E. Williamson

No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means, including photocopying, recording, or other electronic or mechanical methods, without the prior written permission of the publisher, except in the case of brief quotations embodied in critical reviews and certain other noncommercial uses permitted by copyright law.

Published by BooxAi

ISBN: 978-965-578-472-5

The Ailing Queen

A LOVE BEYOND BOUNDARIES

A. E. WILLIAMSON

Contents

Acknowledgments

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

This book is dedicated to my two children. My mother, sister, brother, and nieces and nephews. And all my other family members. And my dear friends new and old. Lastly, to all the dreamers out there, dare to dream. I’m a fan and I believe in you.

Acknowledgments

My teachers, because they gave me a love for words, reading, and writing.

ChapterOne

As the winters approached in the sacred land of Ginastovia, the dilapidated, thatch-roofed huts of the village were covered in heaps of snow. The enormous tombs of the mighty castle stood firm and tall, covered in striking white, unbalanced ice caps. From the window in one of the tombs peeked the gallant Queen of Ginastovia.

“Good Heavens, Gertrude. Look at the huts in the suburbs. My people must be freezing in this atrocious weather.”

“Yes, My Queen. What does Your Majesty command us to do about it?” Gertrude bowed.

Gertrude was an old lady – in her 60s, the head of the royal staff. She had been serving the Queen since she was a teenager.

“I am afraid my medications have rendered me a bit slow. Any ideas?”

“Your Highness, we may open the dungeons for them, if you will. They can live there for a while, and we can provide them with sustenance. I will happily be of service.” Gertrude commented as she helped the Queen towards her study table.

“Excellent idea, Gertrude. You always amaze me. Bring Oliver in. I must ask him to print and sign these orders on my behalf, and while you are near the bookshelf, pull out the maroon book with a velvet cover on the bottom right. Please, close the door on your way out.”

Gertrude handed the book over and left to find Oliver. The Queen opened the book, and instead of pages, there was a small case inside. She drew her necklace and opened the pendant; inside was a key. With the key, she unlocked the case, and a manila envelope slid out with an official seal on it.

Helen Winningham, Queen of Ginastovia, had an incomparable beauty that shined from the inside out. She was compassionate to her royal staff and the subjects throughout the land, an unwavering quality she relentlessly illustrated throughout her time as the Queen. She wasn't a stranger to kingdom politics, coming from a royal bloodline.

Her father, King Xavier Earl Davenport III, preceded her. But after the King's death and with the responsibility of the throne on her shoulders, she decided to attach herself to the love of her life emotionally, King Arnold Harrison, Winningham, who abdicated his throne to come and rule alongside her.

However, this support was not eternal; the King left the world thirty-two years into their marriage, and as the Queen rapidly approached old age; the fate of the next heir to the kingdom was uncertain since she never bore any children. The following eligible heir to the throne was the Queen's distant cousin on her father's side, Lord Jacob. Although the Queen loved her cousin dearly, she didn't think he was fit to become King.

Jacob was known for his incomparable looks. He was very handsome, stood 6' 1” tall, with a toned and fit body. Women all over the kingdom and abroad were lost in his chestnut-colored eyes. He was like a G Q model in a custom-fit black velvet mantle. However, his personality and demeanor, on the other hand, were of pure arrogance.

Oliver Samuelson II was her loyal Chief Advisor for two years. Oliver was also a sight for sore eyes. He was tall, muscular and buff, and his blonde hair changed colors in the sun, making many heads turn. His eyes were crystal blue like the cerulean sky. But he was down to earth and didn't let his good looks go to his head.

“Yes, your Highness. What can I do for you today?” Oliver asked as he closed the door behind him.

“Have a seat, Oliver, dear. How have you been? Help yourself with some tea.”

“Never better, thank you very much, Your Majesty.”

“My dear, I haven't been feeling well lately.”

“I am summoning the Doctor, don't worry.” Oliver pushed himself up from the chair and frantically grabbed the phone.

“Relax, my dear. Oh, God. Your concern amuses me. Here, take this envelope, but promise me that you will not open it unless something happens to me.” The Queen requested as she slid the envelope towards him.

“Of course, your grace, I would do anything for you. But it concerns me that you're not feeling well. Do you think someone is trying to harm you? Should I call the family doctor or the Royal Police Department?” He said in a loving yet concerned tone.

“Oliver, my dear, I appreciate that you are concerned. You are like the family I never had but always longed for, and I love you dearly. But don't worry; my concerns could be due to old age.” The Queen said, putting her spectacles aside.

“Are you sure, My Queen?” asked Oliver.

She nodded with a gentle smile and headed toward her bed.

“Uh, My Queen, one last thing; I am sorry, I have to go to the States on a business trip,” Oliver said.

“Oh yes, don't be sorry. I almost forgot that you must visit New York concerning our royal affairs. I know you will have to put someone in charge in your absence, and I won't question who you appoint because I trust your judgment.” They embraced as she said those last words.

“And Oliver? Please ask Gertrude about our conversation earlier, and get all the required work done.”

“Uh… about? Never mind, I shall ask her.” Oliver left her room.

On his way out, he bumped into Lord Jacob.

“Oh, hello, Oliver. Have you lost your sight? Don't answer that; just use it next time, will ya?” Lord Jacob said nonchalantly.

“Hello, Lord Jacob,” Oliver responded frustratingly.

“Tell me, how's my cousin doing? You seem a little flushed.” Lord Jacob asked.

“Well, Sir, Her Majesty is a bit feebler these days. You should visit her soon.” Oliver advised.

“Yes, well, as you know, I've been quite busy lately. But honestly, it's none of your business when I do or don't visit her. Do I make myself clear? Frankly, I don't know why she's kept you on staff this long; it's clear you are just a filthy freeloader. Understand this, as soon as she kicks the bucket, that crown will be mine, and I will throw you out on your pompous butt. Oh, and maybe, I'll discuss her upping the ante on the maids' cleaning duties. The kingdom is feeling a bit draft lately.” Lord Jacob said as he adjusted his mantle, inspecting the dust on one of the candle stands.

“My apologies, Sir. I'm sure she'll take your requests into great consideration. Good day to you.” Oliver stated with a sarcastic smirk, then swiftly walked away.

“Jerk,” Oliver whispered.

Although Oliver despised Lord Jacob immensely he knew he couldn't disrespect the Queen's entitled and obnoxious cousin. Oliver only cared about the Queen and her welfare at that moment.

The next day, Oliver went home to prepare for his trip to New York and see his beautiful mother, Lady Ruby Samuelson. He greeted her with a kiss and heartfelt embrace. Although Oliver and his mother always had a great bond, they became even closer when his father, Chief Advisor Oliver Samuelson Sr., died abruptly two years ago.

His mother was left devastated and fell into depression. Oliver never let his mother out of sight or be unhappy and supported her through grieving.

“Hello, my most beautiful, darling, gorgeous, cute Mother. How was your day?” He began.

“Oh, Oliver. You are a unicorn. Come hug your mother dear. Yes, I get the hint. Are you craving some dessert? Anyway, it's been good, sweetheart, but even better now that you're home. How was your day, dear?” She asked.

Before Oliver answered, she noticed how her son had become a man all of a sudden. He was very handsome and looked like her late husband; sometimes, she became lost when she looked at him, marveling over the resemblance he shared with her late, beloved husband. But now and then, she would see a little bit of herself in him. She wondered when he would settle down, marry, and make her a grandmother.

“Hello? Earth to mum, I just said my day was productive, to say the least, demanded eighty different desserts, and praised your attire twice.” Oliver said as he waved to interrupt her thoughts, bringing her back to the present.

She blinked and said, “That's good, dear.”

“Where were you a second ago, mother?” He asked in a loving tone, grabbing an apple from the fridge.

“Oh, I was just thinking about how much you remind me of your father and how much I want you to fall in love, get married, and have lots of kids. I can't wait to be a grandmother….” She said in a parched tone.

“…and by the way, there is a double-crust fruit pie in there, too. Take it.” She added. 

“Oh yum. I miss dad, too; as far as marriage and kids go, that will happen when the time is right. Mum, can you please have a seat? I have to discuss something with you.” Oliver said.

“What is it, honey? I'd say it was rather important from the sound of your voice and the look on your face.” She said while sitting upright.

“Don't worry; it's nothing too serious,” Oliver stated.

“Okay, dear, I'm listening.” She said.

“I have to go away, I have a board meeting in the States on Queen's behalf,” Oliver said.

“Well, that doesn't sound serious at all. You do that all the time. Why did you get me all worried? You are my only child and the only family I have left; you shouldn’t worry me like that.” She said.

“Relax, mum. I didn't intend to.” Oliver teased.

“Oliver, you should have seen your expression. Besides, how can a mother not worry about her child?” She sighed, then continued, 

“Well, can you tell me where you're headed in the States?”

“The Big Apple.” He said, in an accent that was more Boston than New York.

His mother roared with laughter. Then, she added,

“Say no more, my son. I know you swore to serve the Queen, and I trust her judgment. If she chose you to do it, you must do your best to accomplish the task at hand. My son, you're a good boy for always taking care of her.” she said, happily patting Oliver on the cheek.

“Well, we must not waste another moment getting you packed! When are you leaving?” She continued.

“In two days, I have to appoint someone to act in my place while I'm gone. Any suggestions?” He asked.

“Lord Jacob. He will do a mighty fine job in your absence.” She paused, taking a sip from her coffee.

Oliver laughed so hard that tears filled his eyes. Sometimes he forgot that his mother was a comedian.

“I love you, Mum. Come here,” Oliver said, pulling his mother close and squeezing her in a bear hug.

“I love you too, my son.”

The next day was colder than the rest, and Oliver set out to find his best friend, Daniel Collins. 

Daniel had boyish good looks. He stood 5' 11” tall, and his eyes were of a deep blue. Oliver and Daniel had been friends since primary school. They became fast friends in a glimpse and got into all kinds of mischief together. Now their bond was more like brothers than friends. 

The friendship came to a screeching halt when they both fell for the same girl, Amanda Billingsley. But to their grief, she didn't like Danny or Ollie. Instead, she had a major crush on their classmate, Scott Radford. After they found that out, they made up and vowed never to let a girl come between their friendship again.

Their bond runs deep; that's why Oliver knew he was the best candidate to run things in his absence. Daniel also learned about the position very well; he respected the Queen and her kingdom. He found Daniel in his office, sitting behind the computer. He peeped over to notice Oliver standing with bagels and coffee in his hands.

“Hey, bro. What have I done to deserve a visit from the likes of you? Have a seat.” Daniel said. Oliver sat down on the plush-blue suede sofa chair in front of Daniel's desk, handing over the food to him.

“Ha-ha, hilarious, Danny. You're jealous that you enjoy spending more time in my office because it makes yours look like a box.” Oliver teased.

“Ouch! Touché, touché!” Daniel replied, clutching his chest.

“But in all seriousness, I have to ask you for a favor,” Oliver said.

“What's up, man? You have my undivided attention.” Daniel said.

“I'll be going away soon. I've got some business to attend to on behalf of the Queen; I shouldn't be gone long. I need you to fill in as chief advisor to the Queen and look after my mother.”

“Of course, man, no worries. My answer to you is always a yes, except when you want to go paragliding, then bloody no—anyway, yeah. I'll hold down the fort until you get back. Where are you headed?” Daniel asked.

“Oh, I will take you paragliding, I swear.To answer your question, I am going on one of my annual business trips to the States. Do you want me to bore you with meeting details and the itinerary too?” Oliver asked teasingly.

“Ha Ha! No, dude, I was just making small talk.” Daniel said.

“If you must know, I'm going to New York, New York.” He sang in a Broadway musical tone.

“It is mind-boggling that you passed our chorus class, Mr. Melody...” Daniel teased.

“…by the way, I hope the weather's nicer there than it's been here.” Daniel chuckled.

“Well, momma…” Oliver chuckled in agreement.

“Shut up, don't answer that. I hope you freeze at the airport.” Danny replied.

“Well, I'm going to go finish packing. I started last night, but I'm not quite finished yet. I'll see you when I get back.” Oliver said.

“Cool, bro! Hey, by the way, bring me a souvenir, will ya? A keychain or coffee mug will do. My desk's empty.” Daniel said as he shot Oliver a playful wink.

“Danny, this is a business trip, not a trip to Disney World!” Oliver said as he shook his head at his silly friend, laughing.

“Well, it was worth a shot. Hey, please do me a favor. Take care of yourself while you're out there, okay?” Daniel said.

“Will do, bro,” Oliver responded, then got up and embraced Daniel before exiting his office.

When Oliver finally arrived in the Big Apple, he was excited. Huge buildings had always captured his heart, and he planned to settle there, with at least four businesses to his name.

Although he knew he was there on business, Oliver decided to act like a tourist for a day by doing some sightseeing. First, he checked into the Hilton Hotel. Next, he took a carriage ride in Central Park. After that, he went to the Empire State Building. He was like a kid in a candy store. His last and final stop was the Statue of Liberty. 

While Oliver is having fun, he is clueless about the detective Lord Jacob sent after him, Winfred Steinbeck. When he discovered that Oliver was going to New York, he wanted to know why. Winfred followed every one of his moves and, at intervals, called Lord Jacob to update.

“Let me see if I heard you correctly. That idiot went all the way to New York to sightsee?” Lord Jacob said.

“Yes, Sir, he did. I must say everything was quite grand, Sir.” Steinbeck said.

“Are you an idiot, too? Stay focused.” Lord Jacob commanded

“Yes, Sir, I understand,” Steinbeck said.

Meanwhile, back in Ginastovia, at the palace, Queen Helen had just finished eating her food and retired for the evening. She felt terrible all of a sudden. 

“Gertrude, Gertrude! Please summon the family doctor.” Her voice was weak and barely audible as she fell to the floor.

Within seconds, Gertrude burst into Queen Helen's bedroom.

“Your Grace, the Doctor is on his way. Oh Lord, what is it, my dear Queen?”

As she said those last words, the poor woman saw her worst nightmare realized right before her eyes. The Queen appeared to be dead! Gertrude nearly fainted but had to regain her composure. She summoned more of the royal staff to come to the Queen's bedside and checked for a pulse.

“Please, don't leave us. Oh, yes. Oh god! Found it.” She said, finding a weak pulse.

Moments later, the family doctor arrived in the royal ambulance and took her to the hospital. The Queen slipped into a coma upon her arrival, and the Doctors began running some tests.

The first round of the preliminary tests showed nothing. However, after more intense and thorough testing, the Doctors found sedatives in the Queen's system. 

Lady Ruby Samuelson arrived shortly after. Shocked and panicked, she called Oliver immediately, but to her surprise, he didn't answer. After several attempts, she gave up.

Oliver was exhausted from the day's activities, so he decided to rest in his penthouse suite. He was pampered by the hotel staff, being treated like royalty. He didn't want to leave the room the next day, but he knew he had to represent Ginastovia and Queen Helen in a positive light.

The following morning, Oliver woke up well-rested. He took a relaxing shower and got dressed in a dapper, tailor-made suit. 

‘I assume mum's right, and I should get hitched before my skin wrinkles and a pot belly starts to show.’ He smirked at himself in the mirror.

As he put his hand on the door of the penthouse suite, his phone began ringing. 

“Where were you, son? You have to get home now!” Lady Ruby asked eagerly.

“What is it, Mother?” Oliver responded.

“Son, it's the Queen. She is in terrible shape and has been rushed to the hospital! Oliver, she needs you, dear.” His mother said.

“I'm on my way, Mother.” He stated with tears running down his face. Although the Queen was of royal blood, she never treated him or his family like help. She treated them like family. She was like the grandmother Oliver never had. 

On his way to the airport, he called the secretary where the board meeting was being held and told her to relay the message of his emergency exit.

Winfred continued to follow Oliver as he placed another phone call to Lord Jacob.

“Sir, I don't know what has come up, but Oliver is at the New York airport. He's on his way back home. He looks terrible, and he's been crying. Quite frankly, he looks as if someone has died.” Steinbeck said.

“He must have heard about my poor cousin. The Queen isn't doing well if you know what I mean….” Jacob chuckled.

“…that crown will be mine in no time, and I can't wait,” Jacob smirked.

“Sir, I don't understand. What's wrong with the Queen? He asked in a concerned tone.”

“That, my boy, is none of your business,” Lord Jacob said as he slammed the phone.

As Winfred hung up the phone, he regretted working with this evil man. Apart from the requirements of his duties, he had immense love and respect for the Queen. He came from a lineage of many detectives who all worked for the royal family. Since then, everyone in the royal family has been kind and respectful, except Lord Jacob. That one was a pain in the derriere. He knew if Lord Jacob ever became the King, they all were doomed.

ChapterTwo

On the airplane ride back to Ginastovia, Oliver couldn't help but think about his beloved Queen. He remembered the first time he traveled by plane; Her Majesty distracted him the entire trip because of his height phobia. She was the grandmother he always wanted to have. He silently prayed for her recovery upon his arrival, as he couldn't bear to lose another loved one.

People started rushing towards the overhead bin to fetch their baggage. Oliver sat looking out of the window. He had landed, but the land missed its usual warmth. Oliver shifted his head from left to right, trying to push himself up. Moments later, a passenger gestured for him to get up as he was the only one sitting.

Oliver got up and joined the queue to head out when the air hostess called him to grab his belongings. The news of the Queen’s health had affected Oliver to the extent that a focused individual like him had lost track of everything. He smiled at the crew, put his Aviators on, and marched out, gathering himself.