“True.” Manon nodded. “Outside of some high-ranking members of the government and intelligence agencies, no one knows they use things like magic mirrors for international communication. I know about it because of the work I do for Lachlan.”
“So my father was using mirrors all along?”
Manon pursed her lips. “He didn’t know about our mirror. We never spoke about magic mirrors, although I’m sure he did use them.” She patted Scarlett’s knee. “Let’s get moving. Lachlan’s going to drive us into town as soon as we’re ready. Beni, you need to come along, since it involves you too.”
When Manon, Beni, and Scarlett arrived at Lachlan’s office, Brayden was there with him. Her chest ached as she swept her gaze over him, from his unruly brown hair to his long legs. He stood in front of Lachlan in his civilian clothes: a black T-shirt and jeans.
“If things escalate further in Evory…” Lachlan trailed off as they entered the room. He smirked when he saw them. “If it isn’t the kidnapper and her prisoners.”
“Very funny,” grumbled Manon.
Brayden’s expression was unreadable as Lachlan closed the distance between them in a couple of strides. To Scarlett’s surprise, he hugged her. The spicy scent of his cologne enveloped her as she felt the crisp starch of his uniform under her fingertips, and the warmth of the embrace pierced through the distress she’d been carrying since she left Brayden in his room.
“I’m thrilled about the North Star news, my dear.” He pulled back, his dark eyes warm with delight.
“Oh, thank you.” A huge smile spread across her face. “I… I love your son.” She was still pissed at him, but being mad didn’t change the fact she loved him. She wasn’t that fickle. She stole a glance at Brayden, and his expression softened.
Lachlan beamed as he looked between them.
Scarlett continued. “I understand it means he’ll always be in my life, and I couldn’t be happier about that.”
Gold smoke streamed into the air above Lachlan’s head, startling but reassuring. “That’s lovely to hear.”
Brayden came closer. “I’m still worried about how long that life will be.”
Scarlett reached for him. He squeezed her hand for a couple of seconds, the brief contact making her heart leap, but then he released her and crossed his arms.
Lachlan frowned at his son. “We’ll make sure she’s well looked after, Brayden.” He turned to Scarlett. “Now that your age of inheritance exception has been approved, I’m sure you’re eager to get back to Soleil.”
“Yes. I need to get back as soon as possible,” said Scarlett.
“With Manon staying here, we need some kind of protection for you before you return,” said Lachlan.
Beni’s head whipped to Manon. “Manon is staying here?”
“It’s not safe for me in Soleil.” Manon put her arm around Beni, ruffling his hair. “Youhave nothing to worry about,because your mother would never hurt you.”
Beni’s expression became stormy at the mention of his mother, but he stayed silent.
“What are your thoughts on protection?” Scarlett asked Lachlan.
“We’re going to get you a first-class bodyguard, and Brayden will accompany you to Soleil and stay until that’s arranged. I think it’s an excellent time for him to use some much-deserved leave,” said Lachlan.
“But—wait. How are you going to get into the country?” asked Beni.
“The only way he can come is if we have a visa wedding.” Scarlett’s shoulders slumped as she recalled his reaction when she’d brought up marriage.
Brayden took her hand and tried to pull her toward the door. “Scarlett—”
But Lachlan spoke over him. “Exactly. He told me you suggested marriage, and I think it’s the best way forward. There’s a registrar available later today who can draw up a marriage certificate. We’ve already booked the appointment. We’ll go first to the bureau to clear up this kidnapping nonsense, then we’ll go on to the registrar’s office.”
Beni’s mouth fell open, and his eyebrows shot up in surprise. “You’re getting married?”
Scarlett looked up at Brayden. “Is he serious?”
“Dad, I told you I wanted to talk to her alone first,” Brayden said.
“Nice one, Lachlan.” Manon bit her lip and looked at Scarlett with concern.
