“A little over a year.Once Coop and Lia got married, the whole family moved back to the Citadel.They lived there when our cousin was still alive.”Heath didn’t quite look at her.“I’m guessing Lia texted you about the duke-let being here.”
“You guys crack me up with that name.You’d better not make me forget and call him that.But yes, Lia did text me.Maybe I should call himLord Obvious.”Quinn took a bite of the casserole and gave a little moan at the savory flavors.“I totally want this recipe.Will they include stuff like this in the cookbook, or will they be offering it on the Citadel’s menu?”
“They’re still debating that.Is a casserole really what you’d order when staying in an old Irish castle?”Heath shrugged.“Brighter minds than mine will have to make that choice.Have you decided how you’re going to handle the duke-let?”
Viscount.I can’t forget his proper title.
“It would be easier if I knew his agenda,” she said.
“True enough.But rest assured, the three of us will do our best to make sure you’re not alone with him.”
“I appreciate that.”
Quinn wasn’t sure they could guarantee it.They certainly didn’t want to offend him and create an international incident.Her mother would find out for sure if something like that happened.
As they gathered their things again, Quinn was still mulling over the issue.Heath had been good to leave her to her own thoughts and not force conversation.
After exiting the turret, Heath locked the door.They went through the tunnel created by the bridge room.As they turned the corner to head to the stables, Quinn nearly plowed into a cashmere overcoat.
“Excuse me,” she said, stepping back and into Heath’s chest.He responded by taking her arm to steady her.
When she looked up, she was struck by the stranger’s piercing blue eyes and model-perfect face.The man in his mid to late twenties wore his dark hair stylishly messy, and he was clean-shaven rather than wearing the dirty beard that was so popular.
Recognition sparked in his gaze, and the corners of his mouth curved up.With a sinking feeling, Quinn knew who he must be.She pressed closer to Heath.
“How fortuitous.”The viscount spoke with a polished English accent and glanced at one of the two men who stood behind him.One came forward.
“Your Royal Highness,” the man said, his English accent harder to understand, “may I introduce to you to Viscount Viktor von Essenberg of Glenloria?”
Before she could say anything, the viscount gave a deep and formal bow.When he straightened, he took her free hand and brought it to his lips.“But you must call me Viktor.”
Irritation pulled Quinn from her surprise, and she frowned.“First off, don’t call me Your Highness.Ever.”She didn’t like the assessing away the viscount was looking at her, even if he seemed to like what he saw.Somehow, she had to dissuade the man.“My name is Quinn O’Brien, and this is… my fiancé, Heath Savage.”
5
Heath barely managed not to twitch when Quinn made the declaration.His shock helped him keep his cool when the duke-let’s eyes widened.
“My Lord.”Heath had done some quick research on how to deal with royals, and he bowed, though he kept his eyes on the man.“It’s a pleasure to welcome you to my home.My family hopes you will enjoy your stay.”
“I expect it will be a pleasurable experience.”The man spoke the words smoothly, but a crease had appeared between his brows, along with a slight narrowing of his eyes.“I have spoken with Mrs.Savage, whom I assume is your mother, and she assured me I could hire the services of your staff photographer.”The duke-let said the words to Heath, but his gaze had landed on Quinn.
“My Lord,” she said, pressing even closer to Heath, “you’re fortunate that because of the festival, I don’t already have a full schedule—and that Mrs.Savage will let me share some of her time with you.”
“And I am most grateful.”The guy bowed his head in acknowledgment.
Heath didn’t miss the glint of a challenge in his eyes.Did it have something to do with finding out Quinn was engaged?Or something else?
“For now,” Heath said, “we have responsibilities with the opening of the carnival.”
“I expect we’ll see you again in a little while.”Quinn handed one bodyguard her business card.“Since today is crazy, I suggest you email me with where to send the photos.It was nice to meet you, my Lord.”
“Viktor, please.”The duke-let’s sultry voice made Heath want to punch the guy, and when he held out his hand like he meant to take hers again, Heath couldn’t help but place himself between them.
“Later.”Heath took her hand, and they hurried away.
“I’m so sorry about that,” Quinn finally said when they were far enough that no one should overhear.
“I never knew your feelings ran so deeply,” Heath teased and then laughed at her expression.The part of him that had dreamed about her as more than a friend wished she didn’t look so chagrined.He said, “I’m not sure how we’re going to explain this to my mother, especially since she doesn’t know why that guy’s really here.”
