She hoped, but she couldn’t count on what-ifs to get her through her career. Idly sitting by while waiting for something spectacular to jump in her mind wasn’t how she worked. But taking a few days off couldn’t hurt. It’s not like the designs could get worse.
Offering a smile, she nodded. “You’re right. I probably just need to get home.”
Stefan slid her straps down her arms, the feather-soft touch of his fingertips she’d so quickly grown used to sending shivers all over her body. And her body never failed to respond to him since they’d first made love in the theater.
Made love? Yes, she felt confident using that phrase—though she doubted Stefan would be. She loved him as her best friend, and the special relationship they had was unique. Granted this marriage may not be like many others, but at least they had a strong bond that was lacking in so many other couples.
“Now, since we have through the end of the week to enjoy this honeymoon phase,” Stefan said, backing her toward the four-poster bed, “what do you say we continue making use of this alone time?”
And who could argue with a sexy Greek prince?
Seven
Stefan knew he wouldn’t get out of Galini Isle without his entourage following him. While he was used to the guards being underfoot, now that he was king—or very soon to be—they took the role even more seriously.
Victoria didn’t seem to mind the extras at her impressive Hollywood Hills home. Then again, her mind hadn’t been on much else other than her designs. She’d drawn on the flight, she’d stayed up all hours of the night back in Greece, and she was still struggling.
Stefan hated to see her being so hard on herself. They’d been back in L.A. for only a few hours and she was already downtown at her office speaking with some of her staff.
The woman was a workaholic, but he admired her more than nearly anyone he knew. He also had a little surprise for her, hopefully to help get her creativity flowing in the direction she needed.
“Sir.”
Stefan turned from the view of the city and faced the open living area to see his assistant, Hector, standing in the arched doorway.
“Yes?”
The man, who had been assistant to his father before his death, stepped forward.
“If you have a moment, Sir, we need to go over your schedule of events while we are in the States.”
Stefan nodded. “Has something changed, Hector? I know Victoria and I are scheduled for the homeless shelter and a library appearance to help with funding.”
“Yes, sir, but Her Highness’s alma mater called and wanted to know if you both could put in an appearance. They were hoping to have a special dinner to honor the two of you. It won’t be for a couple of weeks if you agree, because we’d need time to set up security.”
Stefan sighed. “Let me ask her, but I don’t think it will be a problem,” he told Hector. “I can let you know by this evening. I don’t want to disrupt her while she’s at work.”
Hector bowed. “Of course, sir. I will check for a spot on the schedule that will accommodate both of you should she agree.”
When Hector quieted but remained standing and staring, Stefan smiled. “Is there something else?”
Hector’s lips barely lifted into a grin, but he merely nodded. “You know I don’t like to put my nose into anyone’s business, but—”
Stefan chuckled. “It’s your job to do so, yet you apologize for it every time you interfere. There’s always a valid reason, so let’s hear what it is.”
Stefan gestured to the wraparound sofa and took a seat. “Something is on your mind because you’ve waited until Victoria left to come to me.”
The elderly man sat, not fully relaxing because he remained on the edge of the cushions. “With Victoria gone, perhaps this would be a perfect time to call one of her brothers.”
Stefan shrugged. “I will. But, I’d like to see them in person. They don’t normally do documentaries, so I need to present all the facts before they can make a decision.”
“Have you told Victoria about your idea yet?” Hector asked.
Shaking his head, Stefan replied, “No. She’s so busy with work, and this really doesn’t involve her.”
Hector came to his feet. “Everything in your life now involves her. I wouldn’t keep this to yourself too much longer, Your Majesty.”
As was custom, Hector bowed before leaving the room.