I swatted his hand away.“He’s the son of the proprietor of Blanche de Clare.”
“What’s that again?A perfume?”
“It’s adepartment store,you dolt,” I whispered.“Biggest in the kingdom.”
“He has a punchable face,” Maddox said.
“His face is perfect.”
“Exactly.”
Edmund and his perfect face turned to us before I could retort.Maddox pushed himself off from the corner of the desk.I quickly smoothed my skirts as Edmund approached.
“I hope I’m not interrupting,” the gentleman said pleasantly.He bowed to Maddox.“Pleased to meet you, Mr.Greenwood.It’s an honor to have a relative of the future crown princess in my acquaintance.”
“Oh.Of course,” Maddox said awkwardly.
I fought the urge to sigh.The disparities between the two men were glaring, though Edmund couldn’t have been much older than Maddox.He practically oozed gentlemanly poise while the other...well.
Maddox was Maddox.I supposed that was fine too.
Edmund slid his ocean-eyed gaze to me.“And Miss Giselle.You keep far more secrets than I imagined.A tour guide for Witch Village as well as a seamstress?I’m impressed.”
A flush rose to my cheeks.That only happened around him, it seemed.“I can say the same for you.I didn’t know businessmen involved themselves in royal affairs.”
“Like I said, it is an honor to serve the crown.It is also an offer I couldn’t refuse,” Edmund said, clasping his hands.“Crown Prince Bennett has chosen to purchase jewels from Blanche de Clare for Lady Narcissa’s wedding and coronation in exchange for my cooperation.The publicity of that, well, it’ll be unmatched.Even my father agrees.”
“I hope your jewels don’t clash with Narcissa’s wedding dress,” I said.
Edmund quirked a brow.“I suppose you’re the seamstress sewing her dress.Do not fret, our options are all very tasteful.”He stepped closer and lowered his voice to a conspiratorial whisper.“But perhaps you can disclose the design you have in mind so I can sway His Highness’s choice?”
Sway His Highness’s choice.For me?
I opened my mouth, but Maddox kicked my heel.He smiled brightly, ignoring the glare I shot him.“Aren’t we supposed to be in the throne room?”
10
