“Come along. We’ll prove our superiority on the field tomorrow.”
Dewar’s smile was brittle. “That we will.”
The two friends strode off into the ballroom, When Kellan joined them, ladies were clustered around the edges of the room, chatting with one another in colorful, animated groups. Minfo camera crews focused on the prettiest girls, capturing their conversations for broadcast.
Kellan gave Paddy and Dewar a pleased nod. “That was well done, I must say, and very entertaining.”
“Dewar can always be counted on for excellence in insults,” Paddy replied. “Did you learn anything?”
“Prince Theissen is not responsible for the attack on Gus.” Kellan frowned. “In fact, his signature bears no relationship to anything I’ve found at Briarwood Castle.”
A muscle worked in Dewar’s jaw. “Blast. I was hoping to find the culprit for Gus’s sake.”
“There’s nothing more we can do at the moment.” Kellan noticed Dewar’s color was high. “I hope you didn’t let Blackmon get under your skin?”
“Perhaps I did, a little.” Dewar tugged on the bottom of his jacket. “I can’t wait to show him up in the upcoming sports events, particularly now that he knows I outrank him.”
“I thought that was just bluster.” Paddy stared at Dewar. “Are you really an aristocrat?”
“Well…my parents are aristocrats.” The man’s expression turned mulish. “I’m a Ranger.”
“The Honorable Dewar Delacourt, Ranger in the Royal Special Forces.” Kellan gave Dewar an approving smile. “Blue blood is nothing to be ashamed of.”
“I thought I knew everything about you.” Paddy jostled Dewar with an elbow. “I didn’t realize you had class.”
Dewar feigned pique. “Don’t accuse me of things before you have all the facts.”
Gentlemen began filtering into the ballroom just then and the assembly of young ladies rippled with excitement.
Kellan forced a smile to his lips. “I suggest you two claim a few dances before they are all spoken for.”
As his friends set off in pursuit of partners, Kellan stepped back out of the fray. There was only one woman with whom he cared to dance, and he would wait patiently until his turn arrived. In the meantime, Prince Theissen sauntered around the ballroom, signing the dance cards of the best-looking girls. Kellan bit back a sigh of frustration. If the Shadow Realm wizard wasn’t responsible for the attack, who was?
When King Justin appeared in the doorway with Alice on his arm, Kellan marveled at her poise, serene smile, and genuine aura of goodness. As he remembered the sweetness in her kisses and the way she’d clung to him in their moment of passion, a spark of longing burst into flames. Now that he knew she felt the same way, how could he ever allow Blade to win her hand in marriage?
A waiter drifted over. “What a lady,” The undercover Ranger offered Kellan his tray of drinks. “You’ve got the best assignment ever.”
“Hello, Colton.” Kellan selected a glass of sparkling wine. “I couldn’t agree with you more.”
Couples began to assemble in the center of the ballroom for the first dance. King Justin was to partner his daughter, of course, and Blade had a flashy blonde on his arm. Out of the corner of Kellan’s eye, he noticed a young, full-figured woman by herself. A jeweled comb sparkled in her thick black hair and her features were really quite beautiful. Kellan was certain one of the gentlemen in the room would claim her for the dance. As time grew short, no one did, and her expression became downcast. As a gentleman, he could not allow the snub to stand.
Kellan set his glass on a tray, crossed over to the lady, and bowed. “May I have this dance?”
She beamed. “Thank you, sir.”
He offered her his arm and led her onto the floor. “My name is Ranger Kellan Stratford.”
“I’ve always admired the Rangers.” The tension around her eyes and mouth disappeared. “I’m Miss Yardley.”
“Well, Miss Yardley, let us prance around the floor like a pair of prize poodles.”
Her delightful laugh drew the attention of every gentleman within hearing range. “Yes, indeed!”
∞∞∞
Alice promenaded around the ballroom with her father, enjoying herself immensely. Her smile slipped ever so slightly when she noticed Kellan escorting a very pretty brunette. The girl’s sapphire blue gown flattered her full hourglass figure and her ruby red lips balanced out her enormous eyes. Alice averted her gaze, reminding herself she had no right to be jealous. Hadn’t Kellan himself acknowledged they could never be together? Even as she told herself the same thing over and over, the lump in her throat would not go away.
By the time the music ended, she was determined to set aside her feelings long enough to cultivate the young woman as a friend. After all, since Kellan seemed to like her, wouldn’t it be easier for everyone? She made her way across the floor and joined the pair.
“Ranger Stratford, may I ask to be introduced to this beautiful young lady?”
The girl gaped at Alice and her eyes widened.
Kellan nodded. “Princess Alessandra, may I present Miss Yardley.”
A splash of color stained the young woman’s cheeks. “I’m so pleased to meet you, Princess.” She sank into a wobbly curtsy.
Minfo cameras pressed closer as Alice smiled. “I think your gown might be the prettiest one at the ball tonight.” Her gaze flickered toward Kellan and back. “I hope we shall become good friends.”
Alice moved toward the nearest waiter and took a glass of bubbling wine from his tray. Moments later, she heard a familiar voice in her ear.
“Your kindness has not gone unnoticed.” Kellan’s smile held a note of pride. “By singling Miss Yardley out for praise, I believe you’ve made her famous.”
Alice glanced over her shoulder only to discover Miss Yardley was surrounded by cameras, several young ladies, and several admiring gentlemen.
“I hope I didn’t embarrass her.”
“Quite the contrary, I imagine. She mentioned how she didn’t know anyone in the ballroom and her dance card was empty.”
Alice gave him a searching glance. “Is that why you asked her to dance?”
He shrugged. “A young lady should not be forced to go without a partner when one was available.”
Alice lowered her voice. “I could kiss you for that.”
His heavy-lidded glance seemed to curl her toes. “If only we were alone.”
Prince Theissen interrupted the moment. “Princess, I believe the next dance is mine.”
“Oh?” Alice gave her glass to Kellan and consulted her dance card. “So it is, sir. May I introduce you to Ranger Stratford?”
“We’ve met, I’m sure.” The prince deliberately turned his back on Kellan as he offered Alice his arm. “Shall we?”
She forced herself to smile as she allowed the man to lead her to the floor. The dismissive attitude he’d displayed toward Kellan was off-putting, to be sure, but as a foreign dignitary he was too illustrious for a rebuke. Even so, during their waltz together, she remained silent. Not only was the notion of conversing with Theissen unappealing but she didn’t want to encourage him by making small talk.
When the music ended, he gave her a ghost of a smile. “Thank you, Princess. I like a woman who knows when to speak and when to remain quiet.”
He might as well have said he liked a woman who knew her place. Alice assumed cameras were on her, so she kept her expression pleasant.
“Thank you for the dance, sir.”
Theissen nodded and strode off without another word. Alice was suddenly glad for the white elbow-length gloves she wore. It would have been far too odious to have touched him with her bare skin.
∞∞∞
At the orchestra’s first break, Dewar sidled up to Kellan. “About that girl you partnered during the first dance—”
“Miss Yardley?”
“Is that her name?” Dewar frowned. “Are you interested in making a play for her?”
His friend swallowed hard. “She has the face of an angel. If you truly have no interest in her, might I press you for an introduction?”
“Certainly.” Kellan glanced over at Miss Yardley, who was surrounded by new friends. “Let’s see if we can get past the throng.”
Dewar stuck a finger in his collar to loosen it as he accompanied Kellan across the ballroom.
Miss Yardley gave Kellan a merry wave as he drew near. “Hello, Ranger Stratford!”
“Hello.” He smiled. “Miss Yardley, please allow me to present Ranger Dewar Delacourt. He’s one of my closest friends as well as a highly decorated Ranger.”
Dewar sketched a showy bow. “I’m pleased to make your acquaintance, Miss Yardley. I noticed on your Minfo segment that you are a master pastry chef. I used to spend hours with our family cook learning how to make cakes.”
Her eyes sparked with interest. “We have something in common, then.”
As the two of them discussed fondant recipes, glazes, and the best techniques for piping icing, members of the orchestra returned to their chairs. Kellan excused himself and went in search of Alice. When he found the princess, she was flanked on either side by two gentlemen who were gazing at her as if she were a delectable bonbon.
“Princess Alessandra?” He extended his hand. “Our dance is next.”
Kellan could see relief in her expression. “So it is.”
“What do you think you’re doing, Stratford?” Blade stepped in. “The next dance is mine.”
Minfo cameras pressed closer.
Kellan held his ground. “I’m afraid you’re wrong.”
Blade thrust out his chin. “Not this time.”
Alice consulted her dance card. “Oh, dear. I’m afraid there’s been a misunderstanding, Mr. Blackmon, and the fault is entirely my own. I did promise the next dance to Ranger Stratford. I hope you can forgive me.”
“Of course.” The wizard’s lips tightened. “In that case, I yield.” He turned on his heel and strode off as the cameras followed his progress.
Kellan led Alice onto the dance floor. “The Minfo did that deliberately.”
“I know.” Her eyes reflected merriment. “Minister Seer will be very put out because I was supposed to give the waltz to Blade.”
“You little minx.” Kellan grinned. “Are you enjoying the ball?”
“I am now.” She glanced around to make sure no one was listening. “I don’t like Prince Theissen. He’s even more dour than Pompano.”
“I don’t care for the way he skulks around either. Steer clear of him as best you can.”
“I shall do my best.”
As the waltz began, his mood soared. When Dewar waltzed past with a certain pretty brunette, Kellan even threw back his head and laughed.
“I believe Ranger Delacourt is thoroughly smitten with Miss Yardley.”
“We have a ladies’ luncheon to attend tomorrow so I’ll be sure to sing his praises to her.”
“Dewar will be grateful if you put in a good word on his behalf, I’m sure. I just learned that he’s the son of a viscount if that matters to her.”
“I suspect Miss Yardley is more interested in his arresting looks and athletic frame, but I’ll let her know the breadth of his appeal.”
Moments later, Kellan spied Blade scowling on the sidelines with his arms crossed. “If Blackmon keeps frowning, his face is bound to get stuck that way.”
Alice followed his gaze. “Oh, dear. He does look quite put out.”
“Never mind him.” Kellan gave Alice a slow smile. “I wish to enjoy your company. In fact, I intend to savor every last moment of our time together.”
Her beautiful features glowed. “In that case, I’m the luckiest girl at the ball.”
∞∞∞
Early the following morning, Kellan, Dewar, and Paddy went to the hospital to check on Gus. Heads turned as they left the taxi and made their way into the medical facility.
Dewar gave Kellan a bewildered glance. “I know the three of us are stunning examples of the male beast, but I feel as if everyone is staring at us.”
“I wasn’t going to say anything, but I think you’re right.” Paddy shrugged. “We are stunning examples of the male beast.”
Kellan gestured toward the vidscreen in the waiting room. “There’s your answer. The Minfo has begun airing footage from last night’s ball.”
As they watched, the vidscreen broadcast Blade and Dewar’s confrontation.
Paddy chortled with laughter. “There go all your secrets, Dew. Now everyone in Colossus will know you’re the son of a viscount.”
“Is that all?” Dewar frowned. “I was afraid they would discover I’m a droll wit.”
As the vidscreen focused on Paddy, Kellan grinned. “You look like a real lady’s man.”
“That’s right, you do.” Dewar shook his head. “It’s no wonder my sisters are always asking about you.”
Paddy smirked. “Your sisters only ask about me because I bring them candy.”
Kellan beckoned. “If I might tear you two away from the propaganda, we don’t have much time before we report to the archery field.”
When they arrived at Gus’s hospital room, the Ranger was propped up by pillows in bed. His pretty nurse was perched next on the side of the bed while she fed him scrambled eggs and bacon.
“Oh, hello lads!” Gus grinned. “Nurse Morgan and I were just talking about you. You put on quite a show at the ball last night.”
“Good morning.” The nurse stood and put the plate down on a tray. “I’ll leave you to your visit.” She winked at Gus before slipping from the room.
Kellan peered at his friend, who was still pale. “How are you doing?”
“I can’t lift my right arm and I’m too sore to breathe.” Gus rolled his eyes. “Other than that, I’m dandy.”
Paddy’s eyebrows drew together. “What does your doctor say?”
Gus relaxed back onto his pillows. “She says I’m lucky to be alive.”
Dewar frowned. “Does your family know about your accident?”
“No, I haven’t called them yet. I wanted to have a few more days with Nurse Morgan before my folks barge in.”
“How long do you think you’ll be in the hospital?” Kellan asked.
“Maybe a week. It’s hard to say. I’ve never been skewered before.” Gus’s expression grew puzzled. “Say, why are all three of you here? I thought one of us was supposed to be guarding the princess during the day.”
Paddy cocked his thumb at the vidscreen. “I thought you’ve been watching the news. Dewar and I entered the Promenade along with Kellan.”
“Yeah.” Dewar rubbed his hands together. “The games begin this morning.”
“That’s why you were at the ball with Kellan? You’re lucky somebody already took out your top competition with an icicle.” Gus’s smile seemed forced. “I’d give anything to be with you guys.”
Kellan exchanged a poignant glance with Dewar and Paddy. “We’d give anything to have you there.”
∞∞∞
When Janelle opened the curtains, Alice pulled the blankets over her head and groaned in protest. “Just a little while longer.”
“The Minfo team is already here, Princess.”
“Why?” Alice sat up in bed. “I don’t have to be at the luncheon until eleven o’clock!”
“It’s almost nine as it is.”
“Oh, bother.” Alice jumped out of bed. “Ow!”
Janelle peered at her. “Are you hurt?”
Alice waggled her toes. “My feet are a little tender from dancing last night.”
She hastened to the bathroom and stuck her tongue out at her bleary face. She’d stayed up far too late, had too many glasses of sparkling wine, and had enjoyed herself thoroughly. Her only complaint was in dancing only three times with Kellan. Before she jumped into the sh
ower, she removed the wizard shield from her wrist and tucked it into her robe. In a very real way, the device made her feel as if he was protecting her from afar.
As she ate a bowl of fruit for breakfast, the staff presented her with a rack of suits from which to choose. She selected an adorable black and white seersucker ensemble with a large black bow in the back of the peplum jacket.
Her stylist smirked. “I knew you would choose that one. It’s the most expensive of the lot.”
When the woman mentioned the garment’s retail price, Alice gasped. “Just for one suit?”
“We don’t pay retail, of course. Mrs. Diamond furnishes the clothes at cost and expects Minister Seer to feature her in magazines and newspapers. Your approval carries a great deal of importance—just like with Miss Yardley.”
Alice peered at her. “I don’t know what you mean.”
“Before the Promenade began, the poor young woman’s rating was only a 4.6. Because you singled her out at the ball, however, she’s now at 7.8 and climbing.”
“Oh…well, I’m glad for her. She’s a very nice girl.” Alice found the notion of a Desirability Quotient abhorrent, but she kept her opinion to herself. “Speaking of Minister Seer, where is he this morning?”
“At the archery competition.”
“I forgot about that!” Alice’s spine straightened. “Somebody please turn on the vidscreen!”
The stylist shook her head. “You haven’t got time to watch right now, Princess. We have to get you to the luncheon on time.”
“But I—”
“You can watch the recap later tonight. If you’re finished with breakfast, the makeup artist is ready to begin.”
Chapter Seventeen
A Lot Can Happen
The luncheon was to be held across town at the Briarwood Arms Hotel. The imposing property featured towering white stone columns, sumptuous landscaping, and fanciful topiary. A long, rectangular reflecting pool out front was made unique by its lily pads, several graceful white swans, and a picturesque foot bridge. Hotel management turned out to welcome Alice as she arrived, and the event was covered by Minfo videographers and reporters.
Royal Promenade Page 20