Page 109 of Unmasked

“What?”

I didn’t wait. I headed through the entrance, nearly sliding as I slowed to throw open the door. The guards rushed my way.

“George, never mind, I have to go. Did you say Vaughn?”

I headed onto the covered porch, once again smoothing down my dress as the three dark SUVs looped around the fountain and came to a stop. The middle one’s back door opened, and Vaughn stepped out, wearing all black slacks with a black button up that was undone at the top of the neck. I raced forward throwing myself into his arms.

“I can’t believe you came.” Tighter, I gripped around his neck, pressing my lips into his.

“Of course I came. This was a big day for you. I wanted to be here to support that.” He met my lips again, easing me down so that my feet touched the ground. “Why don’t you show me around.”

Men were gathering in, both Vaughn’s and King Lawrence’s. I grabbed Vaughn’s hand, leading him straight to King Lawrence despite I was shaking.

“Your Majesty, this is Vaughn. Vaughn… this is King Lawrence.”

Vaughn pulled me into his side, wrapping his arm around me as he reached forward, meeting King Lawrence’s hand.

“Your Majesty.”

The nod and deep tone had me swallowing hard through the anxiety of their shake, but nothing was threatening about it. If anything, Vaughn seemed… pleasant. Indifferent?

“Mr. Masterson.” King Lawrence stepped back. “It’s nice to finally meet you. I was afraid it wouldn’t be until the ball. You are still coming, correct?”

Vaughn smiled. Warm. Fake? “I wouldn’t miss it for the world. I’m honored you were considerate enough to throw me a party. I guess it is time for me to join the land of the living again.” He paused, briefly looking down at me but giving his attention back to King Lawrence. “It’s actually perfect timing.”

“Is it?”

“Yeah.” Again, his gaze lowered to me, this time not breaking as he began to talk. “I’ve been thinking a lot about duty and love. I don’t think there’s anything I wouldn’t do for Penelope. She deserves this. A life. Happiness.”

“… I couldn’t agree more.” King Lawrence’s deepening tone had both of us looking over. “I’m sure you want to settle in. Will you be staying long?”

Vaughn licked his lips, slowly shaking his head.

“I’m afraid all I have are a few hours. I know you’re both going to be busy in the morning anyway, and I have an important guest in town.”

“Of course.” King Lawrence nodded. “It was great meeting you. I’ll leave you two alone.” He turned to me. “Breakfast?”

“Eight, sharp.”

He gave a nod, turning, and I couldn’t help but beam a smile up to Vaughn.

“I can’t believe you came. You don’t know how happy I am. Come, let me show you around.”

“Penelope.” He cupped the side of my face, lowering again to kiss me. “Are you really happy I’m here? You’re not upset that I’m imposing?”

My brow drew in as my head shook. “How could you impose when we’re meant to be together? Where I am is where I want you to be.”

His lips pulled back on one side. “Forever?”

“Forever. Come.”

I led Vaughn forward, feeling the mass of guards following behind. As we walked inside, Vaughn’s head turned, taking in the grandeur of marbled floors and statues pillared on gold columns. A low whistle had me laughing.

“Isn’t it beautiful?”

“Beyond words, just like you.”

Heat poured into my cheeks as I pointed. “The library is there. Down that hall past the door is the office area.” I leaned in, lowering my voice. “I’m not sure what’s in the other rooms. I haven’t had a chance to look.” I pointed to the opposite side. “The dining room and kitchen area is that way. I believe there’s a ballroom on that side as well… I’m not sure. We can go look if you’d like.”