As we mingled through the crowd, I was pleased to discover that not every aristocrat in Coradova loathed me. There were many who seemed to hold no prejudice or contempt for me, and were genuinely kind and friendly. When the fundraiser was finally over, Alexander led me silently through the hallways to my guest room, his face set in a carefully composed mask.
“Thank you for coming to my rescue with Marie earlier,” I said softly once we were standing in my sitting room, then admitted sheepishly, “I was so mad I almost slapped her.”
“She deserved a lot more than that,” Alexander disagreed angrily, pacing the room. “I wanted to throw her out on her—”
“Alexander!” I scolded with a laugh and small twinge of regret. That would have been quite a sight to see and I was sorry to have missed it.
“I heard what she said to you,” he growled with a white hot fury. “Don’t believe a single word. I have absolutely no interest in Marie. The more I’m around her, the less I like her.” His hand curled into a fist as he continued to pace. “She’s conniving and manipulative, and every time I turn around she’s trying to force her way between us.” Frowning, he crossed the room in a heartbeat and took hold of my hand. “I love you, dolcezza. I would never betray you.”
“I know.” Smiling softly, I slowly slipped my arm around his waist and took a step closer until our bodies were just barely touching. My thoughts were suddenly centered solely on my prince. I was overwhelmed by the warmth and devotion I could see in his eyes. “Kiss me, Alexander. Sono tua.”
I’m yours.
His eyes lit with pleasant surprise before Alexander touched his lips to mine and brought me gently to his chest. At first his kiss was soft and sweet, then slowly built into a kiss that was hot and smoldering. It was full of passion, need and love. His touch was possessive and filled with the alluring promise of more. Alexander was taking me over, staking his claim on my heart and my soul.
I was his, and he was mine.
A few moments later, Alexander shifted back and briefly touched his forehead to mine. I listened to the thundering beat of my heart as his hand trailed slowly down my arm. He raised my hand to his mouth and pressed soft, lingering kisses to the back of my fingers.
“Sono tuo,” he murmured, watching me with his intense blue eyes. “Did Arianna teach you that?”
“Yes. I wanted to impress you.” I blushed in sudden embarrassment.
Alexander grinned and lowered his head. His words were hushed as his warm breath tickled my ear. “Giorno e notte sogno solo te. Day and night I dream only of you.” He pressed a warm kiss to my neck before leaning back, and I shivered in response. Alexander smiled, his dark blue eyes caressing my face.
My heart expanded with love and joy. It had taken us years to get here. Held close in the arms of my prince, I knew that this was where we were always meant to be.
“I love you, Alexander.”
“Ti amo, dolcezza.” His lips touched mine in a kiss that was sweet and fierce, and filled with promises. “Sempre. Always.”
Chapter Eighteen
With a fond smile on my face, I stood at the outer edge of the crowd, watching from the shadows of a brick building. My gaze was fixed on Alexander, dashing in his light gray Armani suit with the navy blue of his shirt bringing out his eyes. His smile was charming as he posed for photos with a group of women and children.
Bright and early on Sunday morning, we had left the palace to attend a fundraiser for one of the organizations Prince Alexander supported. It was a charity for children’s education, helping to raise funds in support of the local schools.
Alexander glanced over at me in between photos, his mouth lifting in a tender smile. I waved in acknowledgement before his attention returned to the photographer. He was in his element. Alexander had a heart to serve, and I could tell by his proud smile that he was loving every moment of this particular royal engagement.
“The donations have doubled since Prince Alexander became a Patron for the charity two years ago,” a young woman said, appearing unexpectedly at my side. “Everyone wants to support an organization that the prince is a part of. It’s been a true blessing for the schools and children.”
She smiled at me, her expression friendly. I studied her for a moment before answering, taking in her measure, cautious after meeting so many snobby aristocrats. Her beauty was exotic and feminine. Curly black hair hung just past her collarbone and wide hazel eyes were framed by thick black lashes. I couldn’t detect any animosity, and the kindness in her eyes seemed sincere.
“That’s amazing,” I replied with a smile. “Alex must be thrilled to know that his support has made such a difference.”
Returning my attention to the photo shoot, I noticed that they were now holding up signs for the charity in an effort to spread awareness. With Prince Alexander in the photos, I knew they would get plenty of attention—and based on what my new companion had said—tons of donations as well. I smiled as the prince playfully ruffled the dark hair of the little boy standing in front of him.
“He’s wonderful with kids,” the black-haired woman commented, her voice filled with admiration. She glanced at me and smiled sheepishly. “But I’m sure you know that. You’ve known the prince since you were kids yourselves.”
I nodded, watching her curiously. “I’m Madison Kavanaugh,” I said, although I was certain my introduction was unnecessary. She already seemed to know who I was.
“I’m Emma Rousseau. You might know my father, Lord Henri Rousseau. He works on the Council with the king and Prince Alexander.”
The name sounded familiar. I was certain that I’d heard both King Mathis and Alexander speak of the man on more than one occasion. Then it hit me. Lord Rousseau was the Earl of Grignan; a well-known politician. He was Leader of the Upper House in Parliament, a Minister of the Cabinet, an advisor on the king’s Executive Council, as well as a personal friend of the king.
“I haven’t met him yet, but I recognize his name. Alex speaks of him fondly, and so does King Mathis.”
Her face flushed with pleasure. “Alex is so sweet,” Emma sighed, gazing in adoration at the prince. “Father says that he always remembers the little details about a person, like the name of their newest born grandson. It’s thoughtful gestures like those that will make Alexander a great king.”
I frowned, my thoughts centered on the familiar way Emma had said the prince’s name. “Do you know Alexander personally?”
A quick flash of reluctance crossed her face. “Yes,” Emma answered carefully. “I’ve known him for a few years.”
Alexander looked my way again. I noticed the shift in his eyes when he recognized the woman standing with me, and felt a sudden twinge of unease. Something was going on and I didn’t like it. My lips tightened in annoyance as I struggled to keep my expression friendly.
“I was really hoping to meet you today,” Emma said with a smile. “I’ve heard a lot about you over the last few years and sort of feel like I know you already. I’m really happy for you and Alexander.”
“Thank you,” I replied a little tersely, still feeling suspicious. “Who’s been talking to you about me?”
Emma hesitated for the barest second, then her expression filled with resolve. “It was Alexander. I’m sorry, Madison. I didn’t mean for it to come out this way, but Alex and I dated for a while when you were in America.”
My eyes narrowed. I knew Alexander had dated other girls while I’d been gone. Truthfully, I’d dated other guys in Montana. But since we hadn’t talked about the specifics of who he had dated, it was a slap to my pride to unexpectedly face one of them ... especially one so lovely.
“I don’t want you to worry though,” Emma said hurriedly. “I knew he had feelings for someone else when we started dating. I could tell almost right away. Whenever he talked about you his face would light up, and the way he smiled when he said your name ... I only wish that, someday a guy will love me even half as much as Alexander loves you. Please don’t be upset. I
just ... I really wanted to meet you after hearing so much about you.”
So, did she just want to meet the girl who had gotten in the way of her happily-ever-after with Alexander? She didn’t seem deceptive or conniving, but why else would she seek me out just to tell me that she’d dated my fiancé? I bit my lip, struggling to get a grip on my thoughts, when I saw Emma’s face brighten, her gaze fixed on someone over my shoulder. I recognized the undeniable look of a girl in love.
Hesitant, I turned around to see who she was looking at, though I knew before I saw his face. My heart was heavy as I took in the sight of his black hair and the striking blue eyes that I loved.
Prince Alexander. Of course.
He approached us slowly, his wary eyes meeting mine. I tried not to glare daggers at him, or to let him see the betrayal I could feel clutching my heart. I took a deep breath and forced my emotions under control. I refused to make a public scene.
Since our engagement, I’d begun to understand the true importance of learning how to hide behind an expressionless mask. There were nearly two hundred people here. Many had their eyes on us, as was usual when we were out together in public, and I didn’t want a single person here to know the turmoil that writhed within.
When he reached us, Alexander stopped at my side and apprehensively searched my face. Oh yes, he knew that I was aware of his past relationship with Emma and he didn’t look happy about it. We stared at each other as a thousand emotions flashed between us.
“Bonjour, Alex,” Emma said softly, her voice breaking the silence.
Alexander’s eyes tightened, but he held my gaze for a moment longer before turning to look at Emma. Despite his annoyance with her, his expression softened as a flash of fondness crossed his face. My heart twisted painfully in response and my lungs seized up.
Did Alexander ... love her?
For a moment, I forgot to breathe and suddenly felt dizzy. I knew a lot could change in three years. I wouldn’t have been the least bit surprised to have returned to Coradova to find Alexander in love with someone else. But after everything that had happened between us over the last week with his declaration of love and his proposal, I hadn’t even thought about the possibility that there could be someone else in his heart.
With my thoughts in a jumbled whirlwind, I groped for the wall behind me, desperate not to fall, and sucked in a ragged breath. “Um, will you please excuse me?” I blurted, then rushed away without waiting for their responses.
Five steps later, Alexander caught my arm. “Maddy,” he said hurriedly. “I can explain.” He stepped in front of me, blocking my escape, and looked down into my face.
I carefully averted my eyes, unwilling to let him know what I was thinking. Jealousy and embarrassment were eating away at me and I felt dangerously close to snapping.
“You look flushed,” he noted, with a hint of concern in his voice. “Are you all right?”
“It must be the heat,” I said in excuse. “I think I should sit down.” Pulling out of his grasp, I searched for a vacant table nearby.
Alexander followed me and hovered near my chair for a long moment. Then he reached out to touch my cheek and peered down into my face with a grave expression. His hand on my jaw was gentle as he murmured gruffly, “I’m sorry, dolcezza. I’ll get you some water.” He hesitated, then added, “I know you’re mad at me, but please don’t leave.”
I debated for a long minute, then sighed. “I won’t,” I conceded.
“Thank you. I’ll be right back.” Alexander bent down to kiss my forehead before heading off toward the refreshment table.
Emma suddenly took his place beside my chair, looking uncomfortable. “I’m really sorry if I’ve upset you, Madison. We only dated for a few months and it was never that serious. As much as I would have liked for things to work out between us, Alexander just didn’t have room in his heart for anyone, but you.” She smiled regretfully, then turned and walked away.
I watched her join Alexander at the refreshment table and saw the familiar smiles they exchanged. They looked good together, both black-haired and stunning. When Alexander smiled at her, Emma reached out to touch his hand. My own hands clenched into fists as I watched them, feeling my jealousy rear its ugly head. I noticed the various sets of eyes that watched them like I did, and the pitying looks that were sent my way. I ignored them all.
Alexander’s face turned serious for a moment, his expression stern as he spoke with Emma. They seemed to argue before Emma curtsied abruptly and disappeared into the crowd.
Carrying two bottles of water, Alexander returned and sat in the closest chair. He hesitated before looking at me. “I’m sorry about Emma,” he said carefully, as one long finger tapped nervously against the top of his leg.
“Why didn’t you tell me about her?” Trying to ignore the stares I could feel on us, I reached for the water he had brought and took a quick drink.
“I told you that I dated a bit after you moved to America.”
I remembered the charming flirt Alexander had been all too well, and could only imagine the number of girls he’d dated after I moved away. Feeling my irritation growing, I mumbled, “But you never told me who they were, or even how many. There could have been hundreds for all I know.”
Alexander sighed in exasperation. “You’re over-exaggerating.”
“I doubt it, Prince Charming.” Agitated, I squeezed my fingers around the water bottle, the plastic crinkling in objection. “How many girls found their way out into the garden with you after I left?” I shook my head. “I swear, if those hedges could talk …”
“Madison.” Alexander narrowed his eyes at me. “You’re being ridiculous.”
“Was Emma one of them?” I asked point-blank, watching as he shifted uncomfortably.
“I don’t want to talk about Emma,” he answered, looking reluctant to speak of her.
His reaction was making me very nervous. It was clear that Emma was in love with Alexander, but what did he feel for her? I was desperate to know the answer, but knew this was not the right time or place. We needed complete privacy if I was going to get an honest confession out of him—and I’d need some privacy in case I exploded.
“So how many girls did you date?” I questioned instead.
Alexander sighed and shot me a long-suffering look. He turned his attention to toying with the lid of his water bottle. “Somewhere around twenty.”
“Twenty!” I gawked at him.
“Maddy,” Alexander warned, his eyes flicking to the curious on-lookers surrounding us.
I struggled to get my emotions under control and leaned toward him in an effort to speak quietly. “Twenty different women, Alexander?” My voice was thick with disapproval. “Were you trying to start your own harem?”
“Don’t be judgmental, Madison,” Alexander said defensively, leaning toward me as well. “Can you tell me that you didn’t date anyone in Montana?”
“It was three guys, Alexander. Not twenty! How could you do that?”
“I’m a man, not a saint,” he snapped in irritation. “Besides, I’ve spent the last three years trying to get over you and it would have been hard to do that if I didn’t date anyone.”
“Oh, well excuse me for coming back and ruining your precious dating life, Prince Charming,” I said angrily. “I’ll just go back home to Montana so you can get back to your playboy lifestyle.”
I stood up and glared at him indignantly as he rose from his own chair. Before I could take a step to leave he reached out to hold me firmly in place, his grip like iron restraints.
“Don’t you dare walk away,” Alexander ordered.
I tilted my chin up and boldly met his stare. “Why should I stay?”
“I’m sorry to interrupt this little lover’s spat,” a voice said nearby, startling me.
We broke apart and turned to face the young woman frowning at us in disapproval.
Dark brown eyes scanned me from head to toe, her lip curling in contempt. She tossed her long sandy-bl
ond hair over her shoulder before turning her gaze to Alexander. “This is the American commoner you want to marry?”
Alexander stiffened and took a protective step closer to me. “Be careful, Adelia,” Alexander warned, slipping a possessive arm around my shoulders. Still angry, I fought the urge to push him away.
Adelia curtsied, her head bowed demurely. “Forgive me, Your Highness. It’s still difficult to believe that you’re actually going to marry an American commoner.” Her envious brown eyes flickered briefly over me before returning to the prince. “Our last date was just two months ago, and now you’re engaged to a foreigner?”
My eyes widened in surprise. She was one of the girls Alexander had dated? How many of his ex-girlfriends was I going to meet today? I shot him an annoyed look.
He met my eyes, looking chagrined, and shifted uncomfortably before tightening his arm around my shoulders, as if he were afraid I might bolt. The eyes he turned on Adelia were angry. “That was a group charity event, not a date.” He spoke sternly, a hint of impatience in his voice. I could feel the tension in his body, and knew his supply of tolerance was gone. “Madison is my fiancée. She deserves your respect no matter how you feel about our engagement. Is that going to be a problem?”
“No, Your Highness,” Adelia murmured, blushing. She bid us farewell and spun on her thin high-heel, retreating as quickly as she could.
With his arm still locked around my shoulders, Alexander looked down at me, his expression grim. “Let’s go home. We have a lot to discuss.”
Sitting on the brown leather couch in Alexander’s personal sitting room, I watched him pace across the room. We’d been arguing in Alexander’s room since our return over two hours ago.
A lot of life had been lived during the three years we’d spent apart. There were certain details we’d both been hesitant to share, but it was all out in the open now.
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