“I’m glad.” They stood just past the doorway, and Tess wasn’t sure why she’d come. “My father talked to you.”
He nodded. “I was given a very clear understanding of the conditions of my success among all the royals.”
“What?” She couldn’t believe it. “He threatened you?”
“In a matter of speaking. He said I would lose his confidence if I were to pursue anything with you or disrupt his plans.” He shook his head. “Which is crazy. I mean, how well do I even know you? I’m not asking for your hand or anything. I just…” His eyes looked helpless for a moment, and Tess wanted nothing more than to run to him. “I just really want to be with you.” He reached for her hand and tugged it gently, once.
She responded immediately and stepped into his arms, burying her face in his chest. “I’m so sorry.”
His hands ran up and down her back, offering what he could never give, inviting what was not his to offer. But she allowed the waves of pleasure, of hopeful expectation, to wash over her. “What if I were to defy him?”
He paused, a stillness in the air. His delay in responding caused her to step back and search his face. It was suddenly blank, his eyes showing nothing.
“What if I did?” She demanded his response, pleading with her eyes. Would he risk everything to be hers if she risked the same to be his?
“I can’t have anything to do with this decision. It is yours alone to make. Even if you were to defy him, my end of your father’s offer is no small consideration. I would be an idiot to refuse him.”
She swallowed. He would allow his wallet to rule his heart. She stepped back further, that realization tearing at her in small slivers.
“Tess, no. That wasn’t an answer, just a thought. We don’t know if this is worth the risk. It’s too soon. I don’t even know your favorite color, what you like to do for fun…”
His voice trailed off, weak and irresolute. Then he stood up straighter, a new light brightening his face. “But I do know you are kind and intelligent, a brilliant negotiator, humble, fiery, and the best ruler your country will ever have.”
Pleasure filled her at his words. “Oh? And how do you know such a thing?”
“I’ve been asking around.” He laughed. “And I’m an excellent judge of character. It’s how I succeed at this consulting business. I read people well, and you have it all. You’re everything I’ve ever wanted.”
She stepped closer again.
“But. That doesn’t mean I should selfishly act on these observations. As tempting as they are.” He sighed and reached for her hand, lacing their fingers together. “Come here. We should say good night.” Unspoken was the word, goodbye.
She swallowed a lump and blinked back sudden emotion, desperate to cling to him one more time. She rushed back into his arms, his lips finding hers immediately. At first, desperate and longing kisses pressed them against each other as Tess and Trent tried to show what they couldn’t say. But after a moment, they slowed, savoring and exploring. Trent cupped her face and kissed her again and again, asking, inviting, loving her mouth, until she could hardly stand. She desired nothing more than to give in to him, to run away and give up everything she had been raised to do. She responded with all the passion she could never act upon, with all the dreams she wished would come to fruition, until he shook his head, slowly stopping as he pressed his palm against her collarbone. “Enough.” His breath came out in ragged shudders as he closed his eyes and shook his head. “Good night.”
She nodded and stepped back, studying him and drinking in the memory of him. When his door opened behind her, the cold air chilled her desire and filled her with coming dread. The dread of knowing her path ahead. After tasting and knowing Trent, she must now consider someone as tepid and uninspiring as Tehan. She looked away, unable to bear it. She turned and ran down the hall to the sound of Trent’s door closing behind her.
Chapter 12
Trent consumed all his possible spare time with work. He prepared elaborate plans for the clients he’d acquired already. He met with his team more than he’d planned, probably more than they’d planned, and helped them come up with better welcome packages for the new potentials. He spent countless hours in his room, trying to avoid running into Tess, and he spent a good amount of time communicating with her father and with Tehan. Days had gone by with no contact at all from Tess, and he was astounded at how empty he felt when, just one week ago, he’d been perfectly happy without ever having met her.
He sat on his balcony, waiting for a call from King Gregario. At the ring, he waited once, twice, then slid the button. “Hello, Gregario.”
“Trent, I had another couple ideas I wanted to run by you.”
“Of course. I’m at your service. The white-glove package includes calls just like this one.” He didn’t know how he could handle the personal torture of working for Tess’s father, but he was grateful for the man’s trust and confidence in at least his business acumen.
They discussed some matters important to his country. Trent was pleased that they’d moved past simple, easy fixes to rather complex issues in so short a time. And Trent had to admit he liked the man. They were cut from the same cloth. “Your Highness, it will work out. You want to focus on the integrity of your message first. In the long run, that is the best way to be profitable.”
“And the best manner in which to rule a nation. You, Trent, were born in the wrong country. You would have done well as a ruler.”
He wasn’t sure what to say to that. “Thank you.” The pause felt thick. “How is the princess? Her efforts have been successful?”
“She is doing very well and is moving forward as a monarch should. You will be at the gala this evening, I presume?”
“Yes, I’ll be in attendance.”
“She seems resigned, happy even, with her responsibilities.”
“I’m glad to hear it.”
“In another life, I would have been happy to welcome other options, other directions.”
“We could sit down and work on a set of plans that explore the introduction of new lines, new thinking, a broader talent base.”
He could almost see the king rubbing his chin. Then he huffed. “No. It is as before.”
“I understand.”
They hung up as amiably as ever. But Trent tossed his phone on the bed. “Enough.”
He spent the rest of the day filled with nervous energy. He went with his team to try out windsurfing. Trent reveled in the strain on his muscles and the intensity of the waves. He shouted his agony to the sky, pounding it out as his board leapt in the air and crashed to the water.
When it was at last time for him to attend the gala, he felt reasonably in control of himself, confident in his ability to greet Tess in a professional manner.
He and his men arrived together. Some had acquired dates for the evening. Tim had on his arm a duchess from a smaller nation in east Asia. His group made an impressive sight. He had chosen them well—they were confident, well-mannered, impressive, and smart. This whole training had been incredibly profitable for him. He would be the leading source of government consultancy in the Mediterranean. He hoped to spread his influence to other smaller nations in Europe and to one day consult with the European Union. But for now, he was absolutely swamped with the nations he’d gained as clients.
Luke approached with a beautiful woman on his arm, the Princess of Spain, if he wasn’t mistaken. “Trent, you’ve been an incredible success.”
“I have. Thanks in large part to your support.” A waitress offered them drinks. He took one and lifted it in a toast. “To the Regatta.”
Luke responded. “To the Regatta. And to our joint ventures. We are pleased you will meet with us this summer. I know Nico is looking forward to it, and we are all looking forward to your counsel on his behalf.”
Trent laughed. “You’ll definitely be my most favorite clients. Can we get out on the water while I’m there?”
“Of course. And maybe a quick trip up
to the Alps as well.”
“Excellent.” He looked to the woman on Luke’s arm.
“I would love for you to meet Anna.”
“A pleasure.” She placed her hand in his, and he felt an old-fashioned desire to bring it to his lips.
But instead he dipped his head. “The pleasure is mine.”
The two left him, and he moved to talk with the others in his group. Perhaps he could navigate the whole evening without having to see Tess.
A tinkling sound echoed through the room and a hushed wave traveled through the crowd as everyone turned to the entrance.
Tess stood with her hand on Tehan’s arm, and Trent was certain her gaze focused solely on him. He swallowed, gulping down the rush of energy that filled him, the lump of emotion in his throat. She was stunning, glittering with power, with assurance, her commanding presence traveling through and hushing the room.
She dipped her head to everyone and Tehan did the same. They entered slowly, nodding to all those near. And Trent felt sure he would be spared a conversation, until they started in his direction. Before he could do anything as irrational as to run and hide, Tehan and Tess were standing in front of him.
Tehan held out his hand. “Trent, good to see you. I’m pleased with all your innovations so far.”
Tess nodded. “As is Father. I may inherit an entirely different economy thanks to you.” Her words were pleasant, bland even, but her eyes were fire. She drank him in, searching his face and looking into his soul, and he found it almost impossible to respond.
He cleared his throat. “Thank you. I have found great satisfaction in helping King Gregario. I appreciate his trust.” He bowed his head to Tess. “And I do hope that my efforts will make life immeasurably more profitable and pleasant for you, Your Highness.”
Her face colored, and she stared back into his face with a burning intensity that heated the air between them. At length, she puffed out a breath. “The gala, I do believe, has also benefitted from your suggestions.”
“Oh, yes, I did suggest a few changes.” He handed her a drink. “Well done, Tess. Everything has been impressive.”
She colored again. “Thank you.”
Tehan cleared his throat. “And the Regatta ends tomorrow. The finishing line awaits. We’ll see who is winning, shall we?”
“And then we must celebrate or commiserate with our respective teams.” Her eyes held meaning. She wanted Trent to pay attention. If her country won, he would be there with the team, but not Tehan. All the more reason for him to stay away. But how could he?
The music began, and Tehan led her away. He let out some of his tension in a great exhale.
“Well done.” Luke had joined him again.
“What do I do with that?”
“You run.”
Trent laughed.
“I’m serious. Until her father changes his mind, there is nothing you can do. Or until he passes away.”
“That’s terrible.”
“I’m not hoping for his early demise.” Luke shrugged. “I’m just pointing out the obvious.”
“Heh. Thank you, I think.”
“It’s the way of the royals. I’m sorry you are caught up in it. She’d be infinitely better off with you, and her country too. Does Gregario not realize all this assistance he’s paying you for would be free?”
Trent tipped his head, considering Luke. “I’m not sure it’s ever occurred to him.”
“Come, Dahlia is free. Dancing has begun.”
“Are you sure that’s okay?”
“Oh sure, she’s moved on.”
Trent approached his old girlfriend with a timid smile. “Dahlia.” He held out his hand. “Would you like to dance?”
She grinned. “Trent! Of course.” She stepped quickly out onto the floor with her hand in his.
When he spun her around and they moved through the steps, she laughed. “Wow, this brings back memories.”
“You look great. How’s school?”
“Awesome. It’s been quiet, which is just how I like it.” She eyed him. “And looks like you’ve got all kinds of things brewing over here. I knew you had royal written all over you.”
“Well, turns out I’m not meant to be a royal, just to help them.”
“I don’t know. You might be surprised how things work themselves out.”
He shook his head. “Luke seems to think differently.”
She shrugged. “Have you seen much of the others here at the gala?”
“Your brothers?”
“No, come to think of it.” He sucked in his breath. “Do you think they’re out on Torren’s boat?”
She laughed. “I do. They are expressly forbidden to crew their own boat, which is why I am certain some of them did it anyway.”
He nodded. “I don’t blame them at all. I’m considering entering next year.”
“Are you?” Her eyebrow rose in surprise.
“Maybe. This event seems to be a good one for my business.”
“Certainly.”
When the song ended, Dahlia stepped closer and embraced him. “Thank you, Trent. You are a great memory, right before that cretin I dated.”
Relieved she bore no ill feelings for how he’d ended their relationship, he hugged her back. “Thank you. I have only the best memories of you as well.”
Tess approached. “This is nice. I wasn’t aware you two were on such cozy terms.”
“Tess.” Dahlia held out her hand. “Lovely event.”
She nodded. “Thank you. So, how do you two know each other?” Tess waited for a response.
Trent could only laugh. She had no right to be jealous, but he enjoyed her piqued expression.
Dahlia smirked. “We have known each other for years. I’m one of those who appreciates all that he would offer a crown, or any woman.” She placed a hand possessively on Trent’s arm, and he about gulped in shock.
Tess stared from him to Dahlia and narrowed her eyes. He could see the competition rising in her. But before she could respond, her father called her over.
As soon as her back was turned, Trent whispered, “What are you doing?”
“Just pointing out the obvious. That family needs to wake up to the truth that is right in front of them.”
Trent watched Tess. “I couldn’t agree more.” He’d given up though. She was destined to marry Tehan, or some other prince, and he was determined to grow his business, to consult with the royals in the Mediterranean, and to limit his interaction with that family to business advice only.
Chapter 13
Dahlia’s words stung Tess down to her center. She pressed a hand to her chest, fighting the burning. As she tried to suck in a breath, her throat felt thick.
“Are you alright?” Tehan placed a hand at the small of her back.
“I don’t think so.” She clutched his arm. “I need some air.”
“Of course.” He led her to a set of doors at the back of the room.
“Leave me alone for a minute?” She softened her request with a small smile. “I just need a moment.”
He dipped his head. “Of course.” When the door closed behind him, she allowed her shoulders to slump. Her arms dangled at her side, and a tear slowly traveled down her cheek. Dahlia was so correct. Her family was being ridiculous. How could her father consult with Trent on every single issue of state, relying on his wisdom and good opinion, and yet not trust him with the throne itself?
She shook her head. And yet, until her father saw reason, Tess had no recourse, no opportunity to even date Trent. She stared out into the night air. The wind felt cold, but she welcomed the brisk shock to her skin.
She could refuse Tehan. She should, to be fair to him, to be fair to their nations. And to grasp even a semblance of control over her own life. She clenched her fists. Her assistant Damien’s words echoed back through her mind. What do you want?
Everything Tehan offered could be acquired through normal business negotiation, which she was certain he would agree to.
Why not? Their agreements would be mutually beneficial. If she couldn’t have Trent, she would at least not be forced to marry someone else. The more she thought about it, the more certain she felt. Determined, she took in three great gulping breaths, wiped her eyes, and set a course for her father.
He stood at the opposite side of the room. She marched to him with purpose, not seeing the people she brushed past and only vaguely hearing their comments. For a brief moment, her gaze met Trent’s. She held it, drank in his strength, and continued on until at last she reached her father. He was in conversation with Tehan. Perfect. She might as well tell them both.
And then her mother arrived. “Tessandra, darling. You look lovely.” She hugged her. “Though your eyes do look a bit red. Are you well?”
“No, I’m not.”
Tehan and her father stopped their conversation to pay attention.
She guided them back into a corner. “This is as good a place as any to explain my wishes.”
“Come now, don’t be dramatic. You are acting as though you have an announcement to make.” Her mother’s dismissive tone only strengthened Tess’s resolve.
“Yes, Mother, I do. I have come to a decision. Even though you have all been moving forward as though things have been determined, they most definitely have not. And on the subject of me and Tehan and a future alliance, I would like to gently but decisively let you all know that we will not be getting married.”
“Oh, come now, Tess, give it some thought.” Her mother looked from her to her father.
Tess shook her head. “I have. You all keep asking me to think it through.” Tehan seemed to clench his teeth, but otherwise looked relatively unfazed. “Tehan, I apologize for the manner in which you have become involved so intimately in our affairs, but I want to plainly state that I have given it thought and have decided not to marry you. I deeply respect you and hope to continue all our plans for joining forces, for working together with trade, all of it. I plan to rule singly until such a time as I fall in love with someone suitable.” Her thoughts immediately went to Trent. Perhaps one day her parents would find him suitable. Perhaps she could spend more time with him herself to determine if he would be.
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