“This happened on a Galona domestic trip. She’s my responsibility. We are going to provide her royal security. Leave the embassy out of it.”
“Are you suggesting she move into the palace, sir?”
I rubbed the back of my head. “I’m suggesting you find a way to keep her safe. One that will satisfy my requirement
s and keep the country from imploding with gossip.”
This was a fucking train wreck.
“Your Highness, this is unprecedented. No companion has ever lived at the palace. It’s not possible.”
I exhaled. “Make it possible. Find some historic anecdote. Find a loophole. You and I will meet when I return in the morning.”
“I know my royal history, sir. To even broach this topic without scandal is impossible.”
“Sutcliffe, I’m not asking. Am I clear?”
“Yes, Your Majesty.”
I tossed both phones on the couch and slumped in the chair with my bourbon.
One trip. One tiny misstep and I had done what I avoided my entire life. I had fallen for a woman so hard that I was willing to break every fucking royal rule to have her.
Twenty-Four
Molly
I knew something was wrong the instant I saw him. He was hiding a scowl when he should have been smiling.
Ayla had chosen every inch of my outfit. I knew I looked more supermodel tonight and less princess.
For the first time since I met Damon, it seemed as if he looked right through me. He didn’t seem to notice the subtle dip of the V between my breasts, or the slit that rose to my thigh.
He met me at the car parked at the rear entrance of the hotel.
“What’s wrong?” I searched the dark swirls in his eyes for answers.
“Nothing, love.”
I slid into the seat, careful to keep my knees and ankles together as I spun my glittery heels onto the floorboard. Ayla had been specific about every movement of the night.
The chauffer held the door as Damon climbed in, his heavy frame engulfing the air in the backseat. I could feel the heat of his irritation. Only, I had no idea what caused it.
“What’s the surprise?” I asked.
He gazed out of the window. “Dinner.” His voice was flat.
“Oh.” I watched the tiny shops of the village drift by. I had never been to Sangreaux. I wanted to stroll through the streets with Damon. Peek in the toy store. Buy chocolate from the candy shop. Stop by the local bar and sample martinis topped with their famous olives. But Damon didn’t see any of the charm. I knew the village wasn’t part of tonight’s surprise.
The car finally stopped. I peered around the corner and saw a marina. At the end of a line of boats was an enormous white yacht.
Damon stepped from the car and waited for me outside.
Were we sailing on that? I could count three tiers. There was possibly another one beneath the water’s surface.
Damon offered his arm. I slipped my hand through, connecting our elbows.
“This is your surprise.” He nodded at the yacht.