But I turn to Elliot instead. “What do you think of this, Mr. Reid?”
He was scowling at Grimstad, but he looks at me with his eyebrows high. “What?”
Despite the tense circumstances, I cannot hold back a smile at his bewilderment. “I am asking for your opinion.”
“Again?” When I nod, he also seems to fight a grin before he says, “I think Grimstad is playing his worst cards and hoping you believe his bluff. He’s nervous.”
Grimstad’s eyes narrow slightly, but his expression remains mostly calm. “I won’t disagree, but these are legitimate fears of our countrymen.”
“I think you were counting on Freya staying in the palace while you charm the Candoran people.”
“It crossed my mind when this all began.”
“I think you know she’s the best person for the job but won’t admit it, so you’re looking for reasons to undermine her campaign,” Elliot finishes, folding his arms.
Grimstad matches him, and I take a moment to study them both. They are similar in size, though Grimstad lacks much of Elliot’s visible muscle, and each man is imposing in his own way. Elliot does not hide his strength like Grimstad does, but it is clear Grimstad is more than his silver tongue. If he chose to intimidate, he could probably do it well.
No matter their similarities, I am more drawn to Elliot. That could be because I trust him, and I do not know if I can trust Grimstad, even if the Candoran people do. There is more to what he is telling me.
“Thank you,” I tell Elliot and put a hand on his arm, hoping he relaxes. Instead, his muscles tighten beneath my touch. This man is wound so tightly that I am beginning to worry what he might do if he does not let himself rest. I should end this conversation sooner than later. “Mr. Grimstad, I—”
“Markham, please.” Grimstad’s smile grows when he catches the look of surprise on my face. “Maybe we can become friends?”
“Not likely,” Elliot growls under his breath.
Exhaling a soft laugh, I shake my head. “That is a bit of a stretch at the moment, Mr. Grimstad.”
“Worth trying.”
“I thank you for your insight tonight, but I am not concerned about my lack of a husband or child, and neither should the people be. Likeyou, my affection is only for Candora, and I would never leave it helpless.”
Grimstad nods his head. “I am glad to hear it.” His eyes flick to Elliot before resting on me again. “I wonder if you might allow me a moment alone with you, Your Highness.”
“Absolutely not,” Elliot says immediately.
Curious as I am to know what Grimstad might say without Elliot present, it is a bad idea. As much for my own safety as for Grimstad’s, given Elliot’s level of tension right now. “I think it best if we both retire,” I say with a polite smile.
With another look at Elliot, Grimstad nods again. “As you wish. I’ll let you get your rest so you can be fresh and vibrant for whatever you choose to do tomorrow.”
I do not know for certain if that is a call to whatHollywood Hot Scoopsaid about me this evening, but I grit my teeth regardless. My appearance was not as pristine as it could have been, but not everyone has looked down on me today. Some posts on social media have suggested that my disheveled hair and clothing were a sign that I properly enjoyed my time in Windgaard.
On the other hand, one post from a Candoran newspaper guessed my ruffled appearance was courtesy of the handsome bodyguard behind me, which brought me to tears with laughter. It also pulled a blush onto my cheeks, but mostly I found it quite funny. To think Elliot would ever cross that professional boundary, when in reality he only touches me when absolutely necessary.
Before tonight, I have given little thought to my single status, but if I had, someone like Elliot would have never been an option for a future queen. Even with his many qualities… Did Elliot see the Candoran post, or has he been focused onHot Scoop, which was particularly effusive toward him today? The tabloid is awful, but it is difficult to disagree with their assessment of my bodyguard’s appearance.
“Time to be on your way, Mr. Grimstad,” Elliot says and gestures to the door.
Knowing Grimstad is waiting on me, I stand and offer a nod when he rises to his feet and bows. “Goodnight, Mr. Grimstad.”
“Good fortune on the rest of your campaign, Your Highness.”
“Where are you going next?” Elliot asks.
Grimstad pauses at the door, looking back at my bodyguard. He seems to debate for a moment before he smiles in an amused way that makes me think his answer is going to be problematic. “Havenford.”
Elliot and Ibothswear. That is where we are headed, which means I have not seen the last of Markham Grimstad. That should make me nervous, but more than anything I am curious. Will he continue to give me advice, or are we to be true rivals from here until the election?
Only time will tell.
