I feel like I’m watching myself have this conversation from above. “Sure.” I clear my throat. “What are friends for?”
“Youarepretty good with people,” she muses. “And honestly, after twenty minutes on a dating app, I think I might need the help.”
I nod. “If this is what will make you happy, then I’ll help you find someone as soon as possible.”
Anything to stop feeling like this and get back to the way things normally are between us.
Her smile brightens. “Thanks, Tristan.”
I stare at her as she waves goodbye and heads for catering.
I don’t want to be alone. I want to be wanted.
There is absolutely no reason for me to fixate on that, but I do. For the rest of the day.
11
From: Katie Bailey
To: Tristan Prince, Sienna Prince, Aiden Prince, Whittaker Prince, Emory Hunter
Cc: Prince PR
Subject: New security procedures
Starting today, Nour Maalouf and Gio Davanzatti will be joining the security team on a temporary basis. Nour’s and Gio’s orders should be respected like mine are.
Until Tristan is married, we are operating under threat level orange.
Do not post photos on social media that indicate your real-time location. Do not engage with the paparazzi.
Moving forward, Nour and I will be on Tristan’s personal detail. Gio will handle estate security.
Tristan, you may not leave the estate without one of us.
If you need to go somewhere, we will drive you. When we leave the estate, your bodyguard will be armed.
Please confirm your understanding.
From:Tristan Prince
To: Katie Bailey
Re: New security procedures
Do you want me to call you Daddy too?
12
KATIE
Katie
You sure you won’t be mobbed at this place?
Tristan
No one will recognize me here. I’ll be wearing a disguise.
