She frowns. “The lights weren’t turned on?”
“No, they weren’t. We had to figure out where the light switch was.”
“And the books—maybe they could be organized in a more logical manner? It was difficult to find the clues,” I suggest.
The muscles in her forehead continue to flex. “They weren’t cataloged by author name?”
We both shake our heads.
“Did you two at least receive the refreshments we had made up for you?”
“No.”
“I see. It seems I need to have a chat with one of our newest employees about the setup. Now I’m even more impressed that you made it out so quickly. With the state of the room, you might’ve been here a lot longer if you two weren’t so clever.” She pinches her lips together. “Please accept my sincerest apologies. I promise the clues and the room aren’t normally so disorganized. I’d be happy to offer you a return trip anytime. Your patronage is important to us, Princess.”
I stiffen as she uses my title. “Thank you, I’ll keep that in mind for the future.”
“I hope you don’t mind, but is it possible for you to take a photo with the company’s logo for our website?”
I wince. Technically speaking, people aren’t supposed to ask any member of the royal family for a photo. It’s against protocol unless we offer. Today was supposed to be a private date with Art, not me trying out some escape room on a whim. Not that she knows that.
Luckily, Art jumps in and saves me from having to answer. “Her Royal Highness would actually appreciate it if youdidn’tmention today’s visit to anyone. It was supposed to be aprivateengagement, hence why she booked the venue for just herself today.”
“Oh, er, of course,” the attendant sputters.
“What Icando, however, is put in a good word about my experience here with my older brother, the Prince of Wales. I’m certain he and Ms. Amanda Collins wouldloveto participate in a future event.”
“The Prince of Wales? Yes, yes.” She bobs her head up and down. “We would be honored to host him.”
At least I’m not lying to her. An activity like this would be perfect for them. I can see them wanting to try every room that Locked in London offers. We bid her farewell and dart out of the building as quickly as possible to the car, my fingers intertwined with Art’s.
“So, did you have fun?” I ask.
“It was different. Not quite what I expected.”
“What was your favorite part?”
“Spending time with you.” He shoots me anIsn’t it obviouslook.
“That goes ditto for me.” He releases my hand and opens the door for me. “Next time I’ll let you be in charge of planning the date.”
“You trust me that much?” he asks.
“Yes, I do.”
With a smile on my lips, he steals a kiss from me. As we drive away, I can’t help but wonder what type of date Art will choose for us. Will he be as adventurous? Or will it be something more low-key? Only time will tell.
Twenty-Three
Two weeks pass, and in that time, Mum manages to squeeze seven public appearances out of me. It’s now the end of August. As reluctant as I am to admit it, most of the events I attend aren’t terrible. I am asked to pick out a name for the Household Cavalry’s new drum horse, visit the opening of a new exhibit at my friend Patrick’s Museum of Curiosities, and help Mum present the winners of Wimbledon their trophies.
It’s a Wednesday. Angela is off, and Art and I have a rare day alone together. He’s decided today’s the perfect opportunity to whisk me to a mystery location for a date. I’m eager and curious about what he has planned.
“Are you going to talk to them this week, Alice? You’re running out of time before the school term begins,” Art reminds me for the nth time.
“I know.” I chew on my lip. I’ve been dragging my feet about confronting Mum and Papa. “It’s just that things have been going well, and Papa is finally acting normal around me.”
“You’re afraid to upset the balance.”
