"I'm sorry for the tardiness, I had to talk to the research department and then recheck with the accounting department regarding the computations of profit income for 'we are the world'." Edward said as he entered his office. He shook hands with Serena and Charlton, then proceeded to sit down on the chair behind his office table. They decided to meet in his company as having lunch out in any restaurant would not be a good idea given how popular the two were.

"No, it's okay, Mr. Edward, but do you want to have your lunch first?" Serena asked. It was already 1:15 and she and Charlton already had their lunch earlier when Edward sent one of his employees to tell them that he will be running late and assist them to the dining area.

Edward shook his head, "I already had some light snacks earlier and it can wait. Anyway, stop calling Mister, I think we're all closer than that now. Just call me Edward."

Serena smiled and nodded, "Okay Edward, then do call me Serena from now on too."

Edward also nodded his head. "Alright. Anyway, I have here with me the computation of income for the last two weeks." He said as he handed each of them a copy of the accounts.

"Honestly, the reason I went to recheck was because the numbers were astronomical. In our last correspondence, the sales were at 500 grand and the profit out of that is about 75% as all discs were sold out. For this week, the release rate of discs was much faster as all our machines focused on that and stopped production of other discs. And as of today, we were able to raise 900 grand. Meaning that overall, in just 2 weeks, the total profit is over a million. In two weeks, it has surpassed all the other discs we have ever produced except for your last 2 songs, but it is already reaching more than half of the income made from each of the two."

Serena grinned as she looked at the account. The results were very good indeed.

Meanwhile, Charlton who was sitting in front of Serena absent-mindedly looked at her while contemplating. He was thinking of how to broach the topic with Edward without offending him. He had to make sure because although he agreed with Serena helping him, he only thought of involving her in Plan A.

He feels grateful towards Edward's interference, however, he could not help but second guess the authenticity of his goodwill. After he gained enough information regarding the turmoil in court, he started reflecting on Edward's words and actions. Although he might be wrong and Edward was just being a good Samaritan, it's just too good to be true. He knew that there must be some agenda on his part, and he could only hope that it's not regarding the radical faction. Although he was willing to dip in the murky waters, he would never let Serena take that risk knowingly.

"Charlton, have you already thought over my offer?" Edward asked as he looked at him.

Charlton did not have time to answer because Serena suddenly excitedly interjected.

"Of course, he will accept your offer but only if you sign me up for it too. I can't believe that you asked him without even considering me first."

Charlton winced hearing Serena's words. Alright, he now has no choice but to bring it up.

Edward laughed, "of course I thought about you but the lyrics you write are for your songs. However, if you're up to it then…"

"I'm sorry, but before we get to that part, I need to ascertain something first."

Serena looked at Charlton in askance. Seeing him being serious she stopped talking to listen.

"I hope you won't take offence Edward. I am thankful for what you did for Serena and I, and I'm also thankful for the opportunity you're giving us. However, honesty and trust are needed between friends. You are already someone dear to us and I can promise you that I will take to my grave what will be said within the four corners of this room."

Edward shook his head as he smiled. He was actually glad that Charlton's bringing it up. It means that his efforts were not in vain and he did not choose the wrong person to bet on. Besides, he was a bit too obvious. "What do you want to know?"

"I want to know your motivations." Charlton asked as he looked him in the eye.

--

Staring at the two, Serena thought about what Charlton meant with his words and furrowed her brows. After her talk with him regarding their future plans, she too made some conjunctions in her mind. She thought about the events in the novel, only to realize that it never broached the topic on politics. After novel Serena went out of the picture, Emily was able to be with Geoffrey freely, then the story ended with just quick summary of what happened to everyone after.

Anyway, based on her own research and her interpretation of what Charlton told her last time, she understood that there were factions in court and Charlton needs to win over those in the neutral group so that he can have some power and sway the court. Then, he can swear fealty to his uncle, the King, in hopes that he can ask for her hand as a reward so that they can live happily ever after without them becoming social pariahs. If you were to ask her, it's a bit too fairytale like, but it's the best option they have now.

She thought of some alternatives, but the most peaceful she was able to come up with was saving a lot of money then elope. However, like Charlton said, he wants their love to flourish, and being on the run will never make that possible. When they want to start having their own family, what then? Also, their faces were now easily recognizable. Perhaps in other kingdoms not yet, but it's only a matter of time. She really had to give it to Charlton. He really thought about everything before coming back together with her, while she, the real older person in the relationship haven't even considered those things.

--

TBC