“Certainly,” Haydn agreed.
He threw an arm around her and strolled back into the ballroom. Evelyn frowned when she saw Damien had followed them.
“We don’t need a babysitter,” she snapped.
“I disagree,” Damien said stubbornly.
Haydn stood behind Evelyn and hugged her against him. She hated seeing Damien’s expression at the intimate gesture.
It’s more than surprise. Damien looks… hurt.
“You’re welcome to watch us, Fontaine,” Haydn purred, his head resting on Evelyn’s shoulder. “Unless you’d rather join in?”
Evelyn blushed at the implication.
I’m going to store that fantasy away for later. Did Damien also turn a bit pink?
“That’s enough,” Evelyn whispered. Haydn only kissed her neck in response.
Damien’s hand flexed, like he was deciding between a sword or dagger to attack Haydn with. “The princess has a soldier stationed outside her door in addition to her guards. And I don’t think you have a room here, Councilor.”
“Oh, I don’t mind sharing,” Haydn said.
“I havewhat?” Evelyn asked.
“There will be a sergeant at your door until your new friend boards a ship home,” Damien explained.
“You can’t do that!”
“I absolutely can.”
“I’m not a child, Damien!” Evelyn yelled, straining against Haydn’s hold on her.
“No, you’re a princess. And there are two kings here who will support my decision.”
“You ass! You’re putting my room on military lockdownnow? You think I need more supervision after a walk with a High Councilor than after the king’s murder?”
Betrayal flashed across Damien’s green eyes. “You weren’tlyingto me two days ago!”
I’m sorry, Damien.I’m still your friend. I don’t want to lie to you.
“I’ll take Evelyn to her door,” Haydn announced, “and then I’ll leave. Is that acceptable, Captain Fontaine?”
Damien hesitated, sensing a trick. “Yes. You leaving would be ideal.”
“Okay then.” Haydn took Evelyn’s hand. “Have a good night.”
Damien didn’t follow them down the hallway, but two new guards did.
“Why did you agree to that so easily?” Evelyn whispered.
“You’ll see,” Haydn whispered back.
“Are you really leaving?”
“Only if you want me to.”
“I don’t.”
