Page 163 of Unmasked

“As you say, Your Majesty.”

“So.” He stopped. “You’re saying if I were able to join, you’d be my king?”

“You could say that.”

“And Penelope…” He smiled again. “She’d be my queen?”

My fist closed tightly around the mask and crown.

“She is The Queen.”

“Hmm.” King Lawrence bit against his bottom lip, still showing hints of a smile. “I think I’d like that. A lot. Another conversation for a later time. I’m sure you want to mingle.” He headed back up the steps to his throne. “Have a good night… Unavowed.”

CHAPTER 53

Penelope

“That’s the second time you took the last scone. Penelope, when did you take it? I’ve been sitting right here the entire time. I looked at the board for only a moment.” Theodore’s head shook. “Do you do this to Vaughn, too? Steal his food like that?”

I chewed, shrugging but wincing at the pain in my back as I moved a pawn forward on the chess board.

“Guess you’re just going to have to call for another plate.”

He seemed to think, shaking his head. “I’ve had so much sugar. I’m already going to be up all night. I swear, I’ve gained ten pounds since I’ve come here.”

“You were too skinny before. It looks good on you.”

Theodore smiled. “Really? You think so?”

“I do.” I glanced to the monitor of different cameras, taking in the time and debating on walking back to mine and Vaughn’s room to grab one of my pain relievers. I told Vaughn I would, but they made me tired. I didn’t like that. “How has it only been an hour? This is going to be the longest night ever.”

“Forget about that. Tell me more about how good I look.”

I laughed. “Do you not already have half the women of London begging for your attention? Don’t pretend you don’t. I’ve seen the news articles. You’re a sensation.”

“Thanks to you,” he emphasized. “Apparently dating a woman who becomes a duchess and then relinquishes the title does something for status. But now you’re engaged to Vaughn, and moving on with him so quickly, so I’m the brokenhearted ex that apparently needs consoling. Oh, and healing since my attack. I don’t mind it. It’s good for the ego.”

“Well, you’re welcome. I’m glad it’s working in your favor.”

Again, I glanced at the clock.

“The time isn’t going to jump just because you’re looking at it. If anything, it’s going to go slower.”

“I hate him there with King Lawrence. The man is insufferable.”

Theodore moved a pawn forward.

“If it makes you feel any better, I have full confidence in Vaughn. He knows what he’s doing. The man is a strategizing genius.” Theo paused. “Hey, have you played chess against him? I bet he’s wicked good.”

I went to say something when quick movement in my peripheral had me turning to the monitor. I zeroed in on the bottom left corner of the screen where I’d seen it, narrowing my eyes as I waited for more movement. It was the east entrance, mainly used by the guards.

“I think I’m going to ask him⁠—”

My hand came up, and Theodore got quiet, moving in closer to look at the screen.

“What is it?”

“I… thought I saw something. Movement. The guard should have gone through where I could see him. I don’t.”