“An engagement ring,” I stated.
The woman gasped. “Your Majesty!”
I put my finger to my lips. “Shh. It’s a secret. My family has shopped at Vitania’s for years because of the discretion here. I’m sure that hasn’t changed.”
Her curls shook. “It has not. I will not tell a soul.”
“Good. Then I’m looking for something with sapphires.”
“We have a beautiful selection. I have some pieces in the back. Let me gather a few. I’ll be right back.”
“Thank you.” I smiled at her.
The guards stood like statues at the doors. I wouldn’t be able to maintain the secrecy for long, but after tonight I wouldn’t have to.
A few minutes later the shop keeper returned with a black velvet tray. She pulled back the cloth covering the surface to reveal three stunning pieces of jewelry.
“Your Majesty, we can also custom make any design you like if these don’t suit you.”
I plucked the middle one from the tray. I held it toward the light. It was flawless. The sapphire was the perfect shade.
“I assume these are perfect quality.”
“Oh yes. These are the highest quality diamonds and sapphires. If you would like to exchange a stone for one of your family stones, we can do that as well.”
“That’s not necessary.” I didn’t like the suggestion. I wanted a new beginning. I was tired of the same rings being handed down for two hundred years. That wasn’t Molly.
She was a breath of fresh air. She was light and beauty. She was my sapphire, and I was going to buy her the most expensive pure gem in this city.
“This is the one.”
“Are you sure you wouldn’t like to look at some others?” She seemed surprised I had made my decision so quickly.
“That’s the one.” I handed it to her.
She had a toothy smile. “Of course. It’s a beautiful ring. You have wonderful taste, Your Majesty.” She scurried to the back for the ring box.
This woman didn’t need to say it. I knew I had excellent taste. I had chosen Molly.
***
The wooden case was nestled inside my suit jacket. Georgan stood by the car door as I walked through the private palace entrance.
Security was behind me.
I was on a mission. I had one goal. Take the elevator to the top floor and put this ring on Molly’s finger.
Enough with the family dissent. Enough with politics and worrying about the sanctity of the crown. I was in love with this woman. I couldn’t t
hink of a single reason to wait.
After all, I wasn’t a patient man.
“Your Majesty.” Kenley rushed me as soon as I crossed the threshold. She was out of breath.
“Kenley.” I turned for the elevators. I wasn’t interested in being pulled into a royal matter.
“I’m sorry to interrupt your afternoon.”