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Stepping out of the bathroom, I find Felix waiting for me, phone in hand. “The jet will be ready for us tomorrow morning at eight.”
“Perfect.” I force a smile as I mentally prepare for the journey ahead.
“Pack light.” He tucks his phone back into his pocket. “We might be moving around a lot once we’re there, and if there’s anything you need, one of the servants can always fetch it for you.”
I nod, swallowing the lump in my throat. “Right. Light.”
Felix studies me, his eyes seeming to hold an ocean of unspoken words. He starts to speak, stops, then finally manages to say, “Lily, about last night. I?—”
I shake my head, cutting him off. “Felix, we agreed. Professionalism above everything else. And it’s fine. I’m over it. I had one drink too many, and we don’t need to talk about it again.”
“Yes… Yes, of course.” He dips his head, looking both relieved and crestfallen at the same time.
But why? Because he can’t have the casual fun with me that he does with other women?
Well, sorry, dear prince, but you can’t eat your cake and have it too. We agreed to be professional, and professional we will be.
Even if it breaks my heart.
CHAPTER 18
FELIX
Late in the afternoon, following a long flight, I step off my private jet and back onto my homeland. Lily follows closely behind me, her eager gaze taking in the beauty of Albavarre with an infectious enthusiasm.
“Wow, Felix,” she breathes. “It’s even more beautiful than I imagined.”
I chuckle. All she has seen so far is the airport; granted, it does have beautiful landscaping. Plus, the air is heavy with the scent of flowers, a unique blend of jasmine and roses.
“Come on.” I lead her towards the waiting town car. “There’s so much more for you to see.”
As we ride through the city, Lily marvels at the sights that unfold before her. Her eyes widen at the impressive architecture, a seamless fusion of old and new; grand homes and modern skyscrapers coexist in harmony. The bustling streets are alive with vibrant colors, from the traditional clothing worn by the locals to the vivid awnings that shade market stalls.
“This is incredible.” She leans closer to the window to capture a better view. “I’ve never seen anywhere like it.”
“Albavarre has always been a place of contrasts,” I explain. “It’s a melting pot of cultures, art, and ideas.”
Her gaze remains locked on the scenery passing by, and I find myself watching her, captivated by just how much joy this trip is bringing her. It’s moments like these that remind me why I’ve been drawn to her for so long — her curiosity, her genuine passion for discovery.
“Thank you for bringing me here.” She turns to face me with a smile that makes my heart race. “I never thought I’d have the chance to see this part of the world.”
“Anything for you, Lily,” I reply without thinking, my voice deeper than intended. I clear my throat, trying to regain my composure. “As your friend, I’m happy to show you everything Albavarre has to offer.”
Her expression softens, and for a moment, I think I see something more in her gaze — something that stirs an unfamiliar longing within me. But just as quickly, it vanishes, replaced by her usual warmth.
“Let’s enjoy the rest of the tour then, shall we?” she suggests, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
“Absolutely,” I agree, forcing my thoughts back to the present. For now, I need to focus on showing her the best of my country and making this visit unforgettable.
“Your parents never took you on trips like this?” I ask, genuinely surprised by her earlier confession. With their wealth and influence, surely they could have shown her the world.
She shakes her head. “Not really; they were always too busy with business or social events. We did go on a few family vacations, but they were few and far between. There’s still so much of the world I haven’t seen.”
“Then consider this the beginning of your grand tour of the whole world.” I grin, unable to resist teasing her. “And who better to guide you than a prince?”
She laughs, a sound that lifts my spirits even more. “Well, when you put it that way, I suppose I am in good hands.”
As we approach the palace gates, I take a moment to appreciate the imposing structure that has been my home since birth. Though I’ve grown used to its opulence, seeing it through Lily’s eyes reminds me of its majesty: the intricate carvings, the gleaming marble, the lush gardens that surround it like a verdant embrace.
