Some Enchanted Evening

“Gentlemen,” Mrs. Sloane told them with a tiny curtsy. “We dine at eight. I’m sure the hotel staff can see that you are directed to the right table. We’ve reserved a rather large one in the back. Until then.”

The woman gave Francis and Prince Petrus each a broad smile, as if she’d accomplished some sort of coup. Francis couldn’t speak for the prince, but he was grateful for the woman’s assistance in his effort to woo Miss Narayan and would have to find a way to thank her properly, if things worked out the way he wanted them to.

“They are a strange and colorful family,” Prince Petrus said, laughing slightly. “But I must confess, I am drawn to them.”

“I could tell,” Francis said, grinning. He turned to face the prince more fully. There was something about the man that put him at ease and made him want to be friends. “Are you able to pursue Miss Sloane freely?” he asked. It was a bold question for someone he’d just met, but it had just occurred to him that the prince might be able to provide some apropos advice for his own situation.

Prince Petrus seemed to guess at the reasons for Francis’s inquiry. “Aegiria is a forward-thinking country, my lord. My family would welcome whatever bride I chose with open arms. Though her father’s position in industry would not hurt.” He glanced to the stairs just as Miss Narayan and Miss Sloane moved out of sight. “I take it you are concerned with similar problems?”

Francis hummed in the affirmative. “I have been concerned for Miss Narayan for some time. I believe she has family obligations she needs to break free of before she is at liberty to pursue another way.”

“I see,” Prince Petrus said, nodding. He paused, grinned slightly, then said, “Would you care to join me for a drink before supper to discuss the matter more?” He hesitated for a moment, then added, “I should like to better make your acquaintance.”

There was something more to the invitation. Francis could sense it. He didn’t know what, though, and he was very much inclined to accept. “Alright,” he said, nodding for Prince Petrus to head with him toward the hotel restaurant. “And while we’re at it, perhaps we can resolve all the problems of the world as well.”

Prince Petrus laughed. Francis was glad for it. He thought he might need a stalwart friend to act as a sounding board in his efforts to woo Miss Narayan and to help him through the next few days.