I pulled my phone out while Alexander was in the bathroom, and texted Nina. She was up late as usual, and responded right away.
Me: Just saw your missed calls. It’s a long story, but I’m fine. Home now with A.
Nina: Phew!! We were all so worried about you!!!
My stomach dropped. That was not good. Nina had been speaking to Alexander while I had been missing from the palace evening. So he knew full well that I was lying to his face when I told him I’d been with her.
Me: Can we try that brunch date again, tomorrow?
Nina: Ofc. Just tell me what time babe.
Me: Text you when I wake up? It’s been a day
Nina: Anything u want. I’ll be up. Playing with this sexy soldier tonight.
And then she sent a bunch of vegetable emojis that, when strung together in the order she put them in, were ac
