Tempting the Crown (The Crown 1)

I picked up the royal line. Sutcliffe answered.

“Good morning, Your Majesty.”

I still wasn’t pleased about his interference with Molly’s departure from the palace.

“I need you to change the itinerary for Princess Isabel today.”

“Sir, she’s scheduled to leave in one hour for Sangreaux.”

“I’m going in her place.”

“Today is your preparation for the cabinet meeting.”

I clenched my fist. “Sutcliffe, change the princess’s schedule. I will be taking a guest with me to Sangreaux.”

I could hear his breath through the phone. “Your Highness, who is attending?”

“Miss Washington,” I answered. “Make sure the arrangements are complete and that someone informs the princess she has the day off. She has traveled non-stop for two weeks. I will be downstairs in forty-five minutes.”

“But the cabinet vote.”

Damn it. Sutcliffe pissed me off. He was replaceable. If he couldn’t do what I directed, I’d find another palace manager.

“I know exactly when it is.”

“Yes, sir. I will make sure the arrangements are made.”

I chuckled, knowing he had to scramble to make everything happen. He deserved it after the way he had meddled. The security detail would have to increase. My requirements were double what my sister had.

I looked up when Molly walked in the office. She grinned shyly.

“Hi.”

“Bonjour.” I walked around the desk to greet her. “How did you sleep?”

She ran her fingers through her long hair. “Like I was in a cloud.”

“Good. We have plans,” I announced.

“Oh?” She looked confused.

“Remember that problem I discussed with you last night?”

“The olive groves?”

I nodded. “Oui. That one.”

“What about it?” She cocked her head to the side, exposing her neck. I couldn’t resist kissing her skin. I inhaled her scent. This woman had me upside down.

“We’re headed there this morning. It’s an overnight trip. I thought about what you said. I need to speak to the farmers. I need to see the groves. How else am I going to convince the cabinet without first-hand accounts?”

“You want me to go with you?”

“You are going with me. Isabel can’t handle the country side anymore.”

“Excuse me? Are you asking or telling me?” She wiggled out of my hands.

I scowled. “Is there a difference?”