“And during the on-season?” I ask archly.
Stefanos gives an expansive shrug. “You’ll need to check back then, chef’s special.”
And I find myself grinning back, wondering if there’s a chance I can get out here again, a chance for an on-season in the summer. Though I shouldn’t assume anything. Even if it does feel like flirting. As if he hears my thought, he speaks.
“I’ll need to return your shirt another time. If I had known I’d see you, I would have planned to bring it. Thanks again.”
“Not at all. Glad to help. It was my fault anyway.”
“It wasn’t really your fault. But I will agree your wardrobe and the proximity to your wardrobe came in handy.” His eyes sparkle, even in the low light. Something in me flails at the sight.
With the low lighting in the room, it’s hard to tell exactly, but Stefanos might be blushing. Or it could be my imagination. There’s something about the idea of Stefanos wearing my clothing that’s very appealing. Best not dwell on that line of thinking. He may be a fellow prince, but that’s all we have in common—for all intents and purposes, he’s a stranger.
A stranger whom I’ve impulsively flown to another country on the off chance I might see him. Aside from my creative consultancy work.
“Any other tours?” I try.
He laughs, considering me thoughtfully. He’s close. Close enough that I could reach out and touch him. Close enough to admire his mouth and imagine kissing him. All it would take is the smallest lean, and our lips would meet. Yet I hold back. Even with the way he’s looking at me in that moment, like he’s trying to make up his mind about me or possibly working through his off-season itinerary, which could involve tours to royals from other kingdoms, but then?—
“I have an idea.”
I perk up. “An idea?”
“Totally ridiculous, actually.”
“I love ridiculous. My specialty.” I’m all assurances, because if there’s one thing I can guarantee, it’s that something ridiculous will happen around me. Though this week, Freja is giving me a run for my money, even with the Aidan situation.
“Any chance you feel like going to Corfu for inspiration?”
“In the summer?”
“No.” Stefanos considers me.
“No?”
“No.” Stefanos clears his throat. “Like now. Well, not now now, because we’re here and in a bar and probably there’re no flights out this late and you’ve got a hotel, I’m sure…”
Fascinated, I hold my breath as he unravels.
“I do have a hotel,” I confirm, nodding. “Well, it’s not my hotel, but I’ve booked a room at the Athens Golden Hotel. I’ve got a Golden Elite Membership and everything.”
“Amazing. Very good. Great choice.”
“But I’d love it if you finished your thought.”
“Well… do you want to go to Corfu with me tomorrow? Maybe for a couple of days?” Stefanos asks sheepishly. “Don’t feel like you need to say yes, and it would be most reasonable to say no because it’s not in your plans and it’s winter and some things are closed and it’s cold sometimes and there’s not usually central heat, plus it’s far and?—”
“Yes,” I agree instantly. No need to hear any more. “I would love to go with you to Corfu.”
“Thank God. Perfect.” Stefanos sucks back a long breath. His expression relaxes as his gaze lingers. “Then, there’re two things.”
I laugh because he looks so relieved. And I’d do a lot right now to ease any worries he might have.
“Two things?” I murmur curiously.
“Mm. The first thing is that the locals call it Kerkyra, not Corfu. Helps your street cred with them. Very important.”
“Okay. Got it. Hate to piss off the locals. And the second thing?”
