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“Me too. My parents have a nice three-bedroom place in the suburbs. It’s pretty peaceful most of the time unless the Steelers are playing.”

“Steelers?”

“American football,” Palmer replied.

“Oh, I’m arealfootball fan.”

“I know,” Palmer laughed. “But their neighborhood is in Steeler country.”

“I hope you have a good time.”

“What areyoudoing for Christmas?”

Elizabeth shifted the phone from one ear to another and lowered herself into the bed to get more comfortable.

“The Christmas address is first on my list. Well, I guess thatismy list; I’ll just be here after that. I think Victoria and David are going to take a trip together.”

“Why aren’t you going with them?”

“Because they’re engaged. I highly doubt Victoria wants her older sister as a third wheel.”

“It’s the holidays, Elizabeth. It’s time for family.”

“I don’t have much family left,” she said, feeling sorry for herself.

“All the more reason to be with the ones youdohave left.”

“I don’t know. I think I would like some time alone. I might see if security will let me stay at the house for a week. I still have some packing up there left to do.”

“Don’t just stay here by yourself. I hate to think of you like that over Christmas.”

“I’ll be okay. I’ll think of all the Christmases that came before this one, and I’ll think of you having time withyourfamily, and I’ll be okay. Can we change the subject?”

“I guess.” Palmer let out a deep breath. “I got the dress you sent me for tomorrow.”

“Were your measurements correct?”

“Yes, thank you. I don’t have anything I could wear here, but I don’t know that I have anything at home I could wear to a Queen’s coronation, either.”

“It’s not every day one needs a coronation dress, is it?”

“No, it’s not.” Palmer laughed. “Are you nervous?”

“Yes.”

“Don’t be. You’re going to crush it.”

“Crush it?” Elizabeth laughed.

“Yes, your speech is good. You’ve mastered the slow, purposeful walk. You’re going to be great.”

“You’re coming to the dinner afterward, yes?”

“I’ll be there.”

“I’ve placed you next to me at the table.”

“Is that allowed? I’m not important enough for that.”