“Some space would suffice,” I managed.
Crown Prince Bennett withdrew his hand, raining crumbs on the floor and over his breeches. He stood again. Did he think I was askinghimto move the shelves? My face warmed. I wasn’t nearly bold enough to ask the future king of Olderea to do manual labor on my behalf.
“I’ll go ask Lady Marianna for help.” I whirled to the exit, but when I looked over my shoulder, he had already removed his coat.
“It’s no problem,” Crown Prince Bennett said shortly, rolling up his sleeves. He had done the same that morning at the stables. I stopped myself before I could begin to admire his toned forearms, the breadth of his chest, or how handsome he looked when his hair fell over his forehead, so unlike his usual polish. The pieces curling at the nape of his neck were especially endearing, I decided.
You like him,Misty accused.
I tore my eyes away as he got to work.
I am grateful for his help and you should be too,I thought to her irritably. My face burned. It was moments like these I wished Mistycouldn’tread my thoughts.
Moving shelves is certainly an admirable trait in a mate,Misty said.I wonder if he moves couches as well.
I looked heavenward, refusing to indulge her. The shelf squeaked. Crown Prince Bennett had managed to shift it an inch over, but it was enough. Misty meandered out, licking her paw.
Where’s the salmon?she said.
“Misty says thanks,” I said, shooting her a glare.
The crown prince looked down. “Of course. Consider this a return of your favor.” He pulled on his coat and gave me a quick bow. “Good afternoon, Lady Narcissa.”
He straightened his lapels and left.
Misty brushed against my leg.So, about his muscular b—
“The salmon is in the kitchen,” I said with a scowl.
20
Lord Irving, a bonyman with an abundance of black hair, greeted us at the steps of Vandil’s city hall the next morning.
“This way, Your Highness, Lady Narcissa,” the lord mayor said, leading us up the stairs behind a row of large pillars. At the top of the granite steps was a platform. On top was a single podium where Crown Prince Bennett was to give his speech.
Below, the Royal Guard positioned themselves at their stations with help from the city guard, armor clinking amidst the murmuring of a growing crowd.
