Heart of Mine

by Lindsay Bergman

  “Hey, Dad,” I said, grinning mischievously. “We’ve been watching Alex practice fencing. He’s gotten really good. You should ask him to give you another lesson.”

  Mackenzie snickered, and my mom smiled in amusement.

  “No, thanks. I’d prefer to stick with guns. Besides, Alexander cheats,” Dad said, sounding slightly disgruntled. We laughed, and he shot us a dark look.

  When Alexander was seventeen, he had tried to teach my dad to fence. The prince had been a very patient instructor, but Dad was a much better marksman than he was a swordsman. He lacked the speed and agility needed to beat his opponent, and even though he’d tried his best, he’d been no match for the young and athletic crown prince. To this day, my dad still claimed that Alexander had cheated, though we all knew it was a cover-up for his pride. Several years later, we still enjoyed poking fun at him over it.

  Ignoring us, my dad dragged a chair over and sat down next to my mom, circling an arm around her shoulders. “Since we’re all here, I’d like to talk about this engagement,” Dad began, his eyes focusing on me. “I’m not going to lie. It came as a bit of a surprise when Alexander asked me for permission to marry you. I wasn’t even aware that you were dating.”

  I bit my lip, suddenly feeling incredibly nervous. I’d been waiting for a good opportunity to speak with my dad about the engagement, and it didn’t seem to be getting off to a good start.

  “Well ... we’ve only actually been together for a few days.”

  “Days?” Dad clarified, raising a skeptical eyebrow.

  “But they’ve been in love for years, Daddy,” Mackenzie interjected, glancing at me. I smiled at her in gratitude. “The only reason they haven’t been together all this time is because of that marriage law.”

  Dad was silent for a moment. “Are you in love with Alexander?”

  “Yes,” I replied softly. My voice was quiet, but filled with undeniable conviction. “I love him with all of my heart.”

  He rubbed his chin thoughtfully, then studied my face for several heartbeats. “I’ve always known that you and Alex were close, but I never realized you had those kinds of feelings for him.”

  “That’s because you’re a man, honey,” Mom teased, nudging him with her elbow. “It’s been obvious since Maddy was seventeen.”

  Dad grunted, looking slightly unsettled, and turned an incredulous eye on my mom. “When she was seventeen? That’s only puppy love. How do you know that’s enough to last them a lifetime?”

  “Sam, have you ever seen the way they look at each other?” Dad shook his head, frowning in uncertainty.

  Mom smiled up at him meaningfully. “It’s how you looked at me when we first met, and how you still look at me.” Dad’s eyes softened at her words. She reached up to cup his cheek. “Trust me, honey. They’re in love and I honestly believe it’s strong enough to last a lifetime. After all, it’s already survived three years apart. Trust in them, and trust in our daughter.”

  Dad sighed heavily, holding my mom’s gaze. Then he leaned over to kiss her before turning his brown eyes on me once again. “All right, Maddy, so you’re in love with Alexander. But you’re not even twenty-one yet. Are you really ready for marriage? There’s no reason to rush into this. You can still finish school in Montana and wait to see if this marriage law can even be abolished. Alexander can’t renounce the throne just to marry you, can he?”

  I exchanged a glance with Mackenzie, but didn’t answer, and he continued speaking as if he hadn’t expected one anyway.

  “From what Mathis told me, you won’t be easily accepted by the people because you’re an American commoner. A relationship with Alexander won’t be easy, and a royal marriage will have its own set of challenges. You have a difficult road ahead of you, baby girl.” Dad paused, holding my gaze. “Are you sure that you want to marry Prince Alexander?”

  I hesitated before responding, though my heart already knew the answer. My dad had made some excellent points. Marrying Alexander wouldn't be like a fairytale with the perfect happily-ever-after. We’d been engaged for two days and were already faced with a multitude of challenges, but I was confident that we would get through them as long as we did it together.

  The sound of clashing blades reached my ears again, and I looked over at the white clad figures sparring on the grass. Alexander struck the final blow with a complicated move that looked almost surreal, and yanked off his mask with a laugh, his handsome face flushed with excitement. Gerard tugged off his own mask and grinned at the prince as he shoved him. Still laughing, Alexander glanced over at me, his smile triumphant.

  I felt my heart expand with love. I grinned in response, then waved and blew him a kiss. Cuore mio, I thought, fondly recalling Alexander’s Italian endearment for me. My heart. Heart of mine. I had spent the last three years living without my heart, and knew without a doubt that what I wanted most in life was to be with Alexander, the prince who held my heart.

  “Yes, I want to marry Alexander,” I said resolutely, turning back to my parents. “I love him, and I want to spend the rest of our lives together.”

  Dad and I exchanged a long look. I prayed he could see the love in my eyes.

  Eventually he nodded, and smiled, though it was bittersweet. “Well ... I can’t believe my baby girl is getting married—and to a prince.”

  I laughed in relief, feeling tears burn my eyes. Gaining both of my parent’s approval had been very important to me. Slipping off the lounge chair, I reached over to hug my dad tightly, grateful for his acceptance of our engagement. “Thank you, Daddy.”

  “You’ve always been my little princess,” Dad murmured, hugging me back fiercely. He loosened his hold and looked into my eyes, his expression serious. “And if he doesn’t treat you right, I will shoot him with my best gun, even if he is a prince.”

  I smiled through the tears, and kissed his whiskered cheek. “I don’t doubt it for a second.”

  “We’re really happy for you, sweetheart,” Mom added, reaching out to grasp my hand. “Alex is a wonderful and caring young man. I know you will have a happy and loving marriage.”

  “Thank you, Mama.” I leaned over to hug her as well.

  Not wanting to be left out, Mackenzie slipped her arm around my waist and pressed her cheek against mine. “I’m really happy for you too, sis.” She hugged me tighter for a brief moment before letting go.

  I smiled and wiped at my wet eyes.

  “I hope I’m not interrupting,” Alexander apologized.

  I spun around to meet his gaze. He had removed all of his fencing gear except the pants and tossed on a fresh white t-shirt. His black hair was glistening, and his face was still slightly flushed.

  “Not at all, Alex,” Dad said. “Have a seat.”

  Alexander looked at me, gesturing with his hand. “After you, dolcezza.”

  I perched on the edge of the lounge chair. Alexander sat next to me and reached for my hand, twining his long fingers through mine. I smiled shyly, aware that my parents were watching us.

  The corner of his mouth tilted up knowingly, and he quickly kissed my fingers before turning toward my dad. “So Sam, are you ready for another fencing lesson?” He suppressed a smile.

  Dad shot him a look, and we all laughed.

  “Ha-ha,” Dad said, frowning good-naturedly at the prince before his expression grew serious. “There is something I would like to say to you, Alexander.” The prince nodded, tensing slightly, and my dad continued. “Yesterday, I gave you permission to marry my daughter. Today, I would like to give you our blessing. We hope your marriage will be as blessed and happy as ours. Respect her, love her, and treat her well.”

  Alexander smiled and inclined his head. “Of course, Sam. You have my word.” He gently squeezed my fingers, and the look he sent me was tender. “I promise to love her for the rest of our lives.” Inside my chest, my heart melted as I lovingly gazed back into his dark blue eyes.

  “Good,” Dad said, sounding satisfied. He held out his hand to Alexa
nder, and the prince clasped it firmly. “Welcome to the family, son.”

  Chapter Sixteen

  Two days later, Alexander stopped by my room early in the morning on his way out of the palace for business meetings. The life of a prince was never dull, especially for the heir. From birth, his life had been consumed by his obligations to Coradova. Despite his decision to abdicate, Alexander was and always would be, a prince of Coradova, honor bound to serve and protect his country. Other than those rare, private moments with his family or friends, Alexander had to wear that invisible, yet tangible, crown for every minute of the day.

  Someday that burden would be mine as well. I pushed back the sudden twinge of fear, trying to find the courage and confidence I knew I possessed. It would take some time, and a lot of help from the Royal Family, but I knew I could wear that same invisible crown and be a princess that Coradova would be proud of.

  Alexander slipped his arms around my waist, gathered me close into his warm embrace, and ardently pressed his lips to mine. I leaned into him and slid my hands up his firm chest to twine them around his neck. I had waited years for these unrestrained moments, to be held and kissed by my prince without remorse. It was difficult to let him go when all I wanted was to stay wrapped up in his strong arms. But he had royal responsibilities. With a sigh, I reluctantly loosened my grip.

  Alexander leaned back with a smirk, his blue eyes dark with longing. “Dolcezza, amore mio. I would stay here with you all day if I could. Tu mi toglie il fiato. You take my breath away.” His thumb softly grazed my bottom lip, then his mouth covered mine again. I was lost in the fiery and passionate kiss, consumed by my prince.

  When Alexander finally eased back, he sighed heavily. “I have to go.” He withdrew and reached into his pocket to pull out a slip of paper. “My last meeting should be done by noon. Are you and Arianna free for lunch?”

  “We’re planning to eat at our favorite little seaside place, Maison de Poisson. Will you meet us there?”

  Alexander nodded, pressed the paper into my hand as he kissed me again, then stepped back toward the door. “I’ll see you there at noon, bellissima.”

  When he was gone, I started to unfurl the note and quickly read it through, a smile coming to my lips.

  Il mio cuore è solo tuo. My heart is yours.

  As my head and heart were filled with thoughts of my charming prince, I finished dressing and met Arianna by the front door. We spent most of the morning in the Pediatrics Department of the local hospital, visiting with the young patients and discussing the fundraiser that Arianna had been planning for one of her charities. She was hoping to raise enough funds to help pay for much needed renovations and updates to the children’s wing of the hospital.

  Shortly before noon, we reached the little seaside restaurant for lunch. As we entered, every head turned excitedly to catch a glimpse of Princess Arianna. We were seated immediately and literally received the royal treatment. Our table was by the window, with breathtaking views of the sparkling sea beyond. The staff was clearly proud and delighted to serve their princess, tripping over themselves to get her everything she might need. Even the chef came out to personally deliver an appetizer of shrimp cocktail.

  We perused the menu for a few minutes as we waited for Alexander. I knew the moment he arrived when I heard several squeals of delight echo through the restaurant. I glanced over my shoulder to see His Royal Highness, Prince Alexander de Coradova striding toward us, his movements undeniably regal. He exuded strength, confidence and charm. His eyes locked onto mine and his smile was devastating. I was grateful that I was already seated because I suddenly felt weak in the knees. I could hardly believe that this beautiful man was actually mine.

  I was relieved by the presence of the royal guards who stood protectively near our table, as well as the two that followed Alexander into the restaurant. The arrival of the princess and crown prince had caused quite a stir. The restaurant was filled with excited voices, and I could hear all the cellphone photos being snapped.

  When he reached us, Alexander leaned down to kiss my cheek, his love flashing briefly in his eyes before he carefully masked his expression. We weren’t making our engagement announcement until tonight, so as far as the people of Coradova knew, we were only childhood friends.

  “Hello, bellissima,” he murmured with a wink, before turning to greet his sister with a kiss as well.

  After he was seated, our waitress came by with three glasses of water. She could barely keep her eyes off of Alexander. She took down our orders, but hesitated to leave, her gaze lingering on the prince with adoration.

  “Merci, mademoiselle,” Alexander said smoothly, his charm effortless. He shot her a swoon-worthy smile.

  Blushing, she curtsied and stumbled away in a daze. I smiled into my napkin, knowing all too well the effect that His Royal Highness could have on the ladies.

  As Alexander and Arianna started talking about their respective mornings, I struggled to focus on their conversation, instead of the multitude of eyes I could feel on us. Growing up as a close friend of the royal children, I was used to the crowds and stares when out in public with one of them. But now that I was engaged to Alexander, the Crown Prince of Coradova, I felt an immense weight pressing on my shoulders. I was afraid to do or say the wrong thing. To bring embarrassment to the Markhams and disappoint Alexander. Even if no one else in the restaurant knew I was going to be their future princess.

  Our food arrived, and I had just taken my first bite of lobster bisque when a satiny voice spoke from the table next to us.

  “Bonjour, Your Highness. It’s so nice to see you again, mon chéri.”

  I stiffened in my seat and looked unhappily at the blond-haired woman sitting at the table across from me. Marie Delacroix. My hands curled into fists. I hid them under the table and tried not to let my dismay show. I felt a warm hand grab mine under the table and squeeze in silent reassurance before letting go.

  When I turned toward Alexander, his eyes met mine briefly before he looked across the table. “Bonjour, Marie. What a pleasant surprise.”

  Marie angled her chair toward our table and gracefully crossed her long tanned legs in front of her. She was wearing a red summer dress that showed off her voluptuous curves very well, and her crimson lipstick gave her a sassy and seductive smile. She tossed her long, golden hair flirtatiously over one shoulder as she grinned, her hazel eyes fixed solely on Alexander.

  I clenched my jaw, feeling an angry surge of jealousy, and forced myself not to glare at her. As we continued through our meal, I stewed in silence. I was frustrated that her perfection was being flaunted in my face. As if I wasn’t already painfully aware of my flaws and lack of noble pedigree. If Alexander wasn’t a prince, I wouldn’t have given it another thought. But as a mere commoner engaged to royalty, I was woefully unqualified. He had admitted to dating different noblewomen over the last three years. Had Marie been one of them? He’d once assured me that he didn’t have feelings for her, but things could have changed since then.

  As I mindlessly nibbled on a piece of buttered bread, my gaze strayed across the table to Lady Marie. I watched as she drew Alexander into a clever conversation about politics, noting her gracefulness and perfect manners, her undeniable charisma. Beauty, nobility and intelligence. She certainly had all the right qualifications to be a princess, and because she was an aristocrat by birth, Alexander could marry her and still become king one day. How could I ever hope to compete with that?

  While Marie’s attention was diverted by Arianna, I tried to covertly sneak a peek at Alexander to observe his reaction to her, but was surprised to find him already watching me. When our eyes met, he frowned slightly.

  Leaning in close, he quietly ordered, “Don’t think that way, dolcezza. I know exactly what is going through that pretty head of yours. I love you, Madison, and I only want you.”

  I was amazed that Alexander had been so quick to recognize my self-doubt. He knew me better than I’d realized, and had insta
ntly settled my churning thoughts. I tucked into the rest of my meal, feeling more content and peaceful. Marie may have been the perfect choice based on looks and pedigree, but Prince Alexander had chosen me.

  We had just started on dessert when the trouble began.

  “I’ve heard some interesting rumors lately,” Marie said loudly. It was clear that she wanted to be overheard. Trying to feign interest, I glanced up in time to catch sight of her sly crimson smile. “It seems that Prince Alexander has a new love interest. He’s been seen kissing a foreigner—a peasant girl, really.” Her cunning gaze paused on me. “And she was begging him to marry her like in some sad Cinderella story.”

  I froze, trying not to outwardly react. It wasn’t often that the gossip was this close to the truth. Alexander’s aristocratic mask was perfectly in place, but I could feel the tension radiating from his body. Arianna looked as serene and poised as ever, but I knew that she was just as tense. Marie had our full attention at this point, even from the people at the surrounding tables. She looked sadistically pleased.

  “Have you kissed any farm girls lately, Alexander?” Marie winked suggestively at the prince, then laughed. I heard a few chuckles from the nearby tables, and Alexander’s answering smile was deceptively amused.

  Marie leaned in closer, giving us an excellent view of her bosom. Her voice was so quiet that it was for our ears alone. “I’ve also heard that the prince is so in love with this foreign peasant girl that he’s going to give up the throne so he can marry her and raise animals on a farm.”

  I almost choked on my bite of chocolate cake. Quickly setting down my fork, I tried to keep my face clear of expression. I could feel Marie’s stare burning into my cheek, and knew she was observing my reaction.

  “Actually, it’s a cattle ranch,” Alexander replied with a playful smile, making Marie laugh. After we had finished our dessert and paid the bill, Alexander stood, taking the time to help both Arianna and me up from our chairs. Then he turned to Marie, his expression polite and impersonal. “Thank you, Lady Delacroix, for your entertaining company during lunch. It was a revelation, as always.”