CREWE'S POINT OF VIEW.
Ariel's discrimination had always amused me.
For a lady, you swear a lot.
Because I'm with you, she reminded me.
And I don't look Scottish either. Who knows what she is?
You know what I mean, Crewe, she said before taking a sip of wine. Don't pretend you don't. If you want children one day, you can't just choose anyone. You have history in your blood. You have Scotch in your blood. Don't fall in love with an American bitch.
I understand you don't like her, but don't call her that, please.
I had no reason to defend London, and Ariel's insults shouldn't have mattered, but since I fucked her every night, I felt compelled to defend her honor. In truth, I genuinely respected the girl. Not at first, but she had earned it through her quick wit and superior intelligence.
Ariel pursed her lips, putting an end to our conversation. She never apologized for her wrongdoings. She leaned forward, her head held high. Not once since we started working together had she ever admitted to being in the wrong.
Her silence was enough.
Thank you...
So, you're taking her? she asked again. Is that your final decision?
Yes.
She pulled out her phone and took notes.
I'll order her a ball gown and tell Frans to do her hair and makeup. She's a pretty girl,but we need to make her features pop.
She was back in business mode.
Her features are already beautiful. But we will enhance them.
I returned to Stirling Castle late in the evening after a meeting in downtown Glasgow. I had spent the day out, and I wondered what London had been doing since I left. She spent most of her time in the bedroom to avoid the men I employed. I had told them not to touch her unless it was necessary, but I understood why she felt uncomfortable around them when I wasn't there.....
I greeted the men in the living room before heading up to the royal apartments. I reeked of cigars and Scotch, but I liked the smell from time to time. It brought back old memories...
I walked in and found her in the sitting room, a book resting on her lap. Her legs were elegantly crossed. She hadn't heard the door, so I took the opportunity to observe her in her natural state.....
She licked her finger before turning the page, and I found that simple gesture alluring.....
Hey, Beautiful.
Her head snapped up, looking embarrassed that I had caught her off guard.....
You've been gone a long time...
She closed the book and left it on her lap.
I had meetings...
I sat down next to her and draped my arm behind her neck. She was wearing leggings and a t-shirt, her hair styled in a braid draped over one shoulder. Even in casual clothes, she was stunning.....
She didn't flinch at my proximity. She just accepted it,as she had to.....
You smell like cigars.
I smoked a few.
Smoking is bad for your health. Or do the Scottish not believe in that?
The corner of my mouth turned up.
I didn't know you cared about my health.
I don't.
She pushed the book aside, looking away.
I just hope you aren't going to smell like cigars all the time. Let's just say it's not my favorite scent.
Have you ever smoked one?
I admit I haven't.
There's a first time for everything, isn't there?
I'll pass.
She placed her hands on her knees.
I stared at her lips, noticing their fullness. I had kissed her countless times, but I wanted more. My hand found the back of her neck, securing her head as I leaned in to kiss her. The moment I touched her, I felt electricity course through my veins. Even the soft, tender, and sensual kisses made me melt. I didn't know if it was her, me, or the two of us together.....
Her lips moved slowly with mine, trembling at my touch. She took a deep breath, her chest pressing against mine. She exhaled into my mouth, and I felt her warmth. I knew these kisses made her shake just as they made me shake. .....
I pulled back, running my fingers through her hair while looking into her eyes.
I have to go to a dinner Saturday night. I'd like you to come with me.
She opened her mouth to protest or ask a question, but closed it immediately, knowing she had no choice.
I felt a pang of pity for her.
You have permission to speak.
As my fingers continued to move through her hair, I realized I missed her. I missed her arrogant comebacks. I even missed her insults. I wanted back the fiery, strong, and fierce woman I had kidnapped months ago.
What's the catch? she whispered.
There is no catch. I want you to be yourself
sometimes.
How generous of you...
She stared at me coldly.
I leaned in and kissed her again, curious to see what she would do. As expected, she returned my kiss with the same passion, the same sensuality as before. Her body reacted to mine in the exact same way, as if she were susceptible to our chemistry.
I wondered if everything she said was just words,a forced attitude.....
Ariel ordered a dress for you and organized everything. We leave for Edinburgh on Saturday late afternoon.
How far is that from here?
About an hour. Often less with my driver.
I chuckled softly.
London glanced at my lips, as if she wanted another kiss.
So, what is this dinner?
It's for Holyrood Week. When Scotland welcomes Her Majesty for a celebration. There's a parade during the day, festivities in the afternoon, and then a grand dinner at Holyrood Palace. The Lord Provost of Scotland will be honoring citizens for their outstanding work this year.
Her jaw dropped.
Are you serious?
Yes.
My fingers continued to explore her hair obsessively.
So it's, um, a royal event?
Yeah.
I had attended these kinds of events my whole life. I took them for granted.
So... are you a prince or something?
Good God, no,I laughed. And don't ever call me that. I'm related to the royal family, but I have no function in Parliament.
She still looked perplexed.
I don't understand.
The Queen is the ruler of England, but she's really just a figurehead. The Prime Minister is responsible for everything as the head of state. Same thing here.
Oh, I guess...
She drummed her fingers as if she couldn't contain her restlessness.....
I don't think I'm the best person to invite to an event like this....
Since I had granted her a grace period, she didn't have to obey me without question.
I don't know anything about the customs, I don't even know how to curtsy.....
You don't have to bow or curtsy. A handshake is enough.....
I can shake the Queen's hand?she asked incredulously....
It would be very impolite not to, considering I'm going to introduce you to her.
Oh, my God...
She covered her mouth as if she didn't believe me.
I doubt this is a good idea. I'm going to embarrass you..
I leaned forward and kissed the corner of her mouth, feeling her melt at my touch.
You could never embarrass me. You're stunning.
For the very first time, her expression softened. She looked at me with parted lips and a sympathetic gaze. The walls protecting her heart and soul were down. She wasn't playing a game. But once the moment passed, the fortifications returned.
It's just... I don't know how to behave. I don't know what to say...
I'll be with you the whole evening. Don't worry....
Why don't you invite one of your regulars?
Her tone sharpened at the end of her sentence.
I tilted my head to one side.
Jealous again?
For the last time, I am not jealous.
I think you are.
I smiled, imagining her upset at the thought of me seeing other women.
And I don't want to take them. I want to take you.
Not even your French diplomat?
Had I told her about Sasha? I didn't even remember that conversation. And if I didn't remember it, I was shocked that she did.
Sasha?
I don't care what her name is. You don't want to take her to this thing?
She has already met the Queen—several times. And no, I prefer that you accompany me.
Do I have a choice?
No.
I stared her down, letting her know she wasn't getting out of it.
But you have the right to complain. Until I say your time is up.
London knew that complaining was a waste of time.
I'm nervous.
Don't be. Just be yourself.
So I should just show up there and tell everyone I'm being held against my will? she challenged, true to form.
There was the fiery attitude I missed.
If you did that, I think everyone would just think you're crazy.
Not if they know you...
I leaned in for another kiss, one I'd be thinking about while showering.
I'm going to take a shower. When I get back, everything will be settled.
She kissed me with her usual sensuality, even though she didn't have to.
And I truly felt like a king.
To be CONTINUED...