She was a threat. He hadn’t known that members of her family were in prison. He ought to know why already. But he’d ignored Garcia’s warnings. Hell, he was turning into his father—turning his back on duty to indulge in lust. And the worst thing was he didn’t care. But he did feel a qualm of guilt for her. She didn’t want exposure. She wasn’t part of this world. She’d never faced paparazzi, never should.
It was too late to banish her from the palace again, but she would leave tomorrow and he would never see her again. She would be safe.
Right this second he wanted to turn back the clock and return to medieval times when a king had concubines and kept chosen mistresses in court, ready for his attention. He wanted to send everyone packing with a finger snap. He wanted all the freedoms, all the time and he wanted it all with her.
He tried to maintain polite conversation. Tried to ensure that he worked his way around all the dignitaries so he didn’t unintentionally offend anyone. Honestly, the greeting line had been endless, even for a royal of his experience...
Now Elsie glanced over. He had to stay very still so he didn’t give away his unguarded rushing response. He was unwilling, unable to release her gaze... Until the prime minister spoke to him and directed him to another dignitary who’d been waiting. No, he couldn’t speak to her yet. He’d not allow himself near until he’d controlled his desire to touch her.
People danced in the ballroom. He didn’t. He never did—never favoured anyone in public at any rate. A few more minutes passed and he’d lost sight of them.
‘Where are they?’ He frowned at Ortiz. ‘Why aren’t you with them?’
‘They’re secure within the private wing, Your Majesty.’ Ortiz replied. ‘They left about twenty minutes ago.’
Yeah, he knew exactly how many minutes it was since he’d been able to see her. She’d left the banquet before the King gave his consent? No one did that. Amalia was only allowed given her age. Except he’d given Elsie a reprieve tonight, hadn’t he? He was not her king. But had she really thought she could leave him again without saying goodbye?
Not this time.