Page 3 of His Royal Request

“If you think Ireland is beautiful, then you’re missing out on something by not visiting. It can be a day trip from here.”

“Maybe next time.” I’d budgeted for Ireland, England, and France. More if I could make it work, but those three were at the top of my wishlist.

He smiled. “Good idea.”

There was a lag in the conversation that would have been the perfect time to leave, but I couldn’t get the attention of Roger to get my check.

I glanced over and he was smiling at me, watching me. I felt the need to say something, even though I was really ready to run. “So where are you from?”

His smile grew and I realized he had dimples on both cheeks. Perfect. “Lochland.”

I cringed. “Sorry.”

He shrugged. “I don’t take it too personally.”

“What are you doing here?” If he was going to pry then I could too.

“I had some business today in Limerick and I’ve got meetings in Galway tomorrow.”

“That’s where I’m heading.” I’d flown into the Shannon airport and decided to stay the night. Tomorrow I’d go to the city where my grandparents had called home.

“Are you stopping at the Cliffs of Moher on the way?”

I shook my head. “I didn’t really plan anything other than seeing Galway.”

“Is your family from there?”

“Yeah, my mother’s family was. She passed away before I could ask her about her family or living here so I decided to see for myself.”

“I’m so sorry.”

I smiled, hoping he’d move on quickly.

“Well, I feel that I would be failing you if I didn’t encourage you to see the cliffs before you get to Galway. There’s nothing like looking down and realizing you’re at the edge of not only a country but a continent.” He paused and smiled coyly. “They are on the way after all.”

I bit my lip. I wanted to see the cliffs. They were iconic and I’d added it to my wishlist before I came, but I couldn’t make it work logistically since I didn't have a car. I was taking a bus to Galway in the morning. I’d been so focused on my end goal that I hadn’t considered detours. It wasn’t like I could rent a car. First, I didn't know how to drive a stick shift and the woman at the car rental agency at the airport said it was rare to find an automatic transmission. Second, I didn’t feel comfortable driving on the wrong, I mean left, side of the road.

“I’d love to. Seeing them is on my bucket list, but I don’t think I can make it happen,” I said.

A phone ringing cut me off. I looked at the counter between us and read “Mum” before he picked up the phone. “I’m so sorry. I’ve got to take this.”

I nodded and he stood up, moving a few feet away.

“Hi Mum, is everything alright?”

I felt bad I was eavesdropping, but he was still within earshot. If he needed privacy, he would have gone outside, right?

“No, don’t worry. I have a second.” There was a pause. “Of course. I’ll make sure it gets done.” Another moment of silence. “I’ll be sure to call him and check-in. I didn’t know he was still in the hospital. Is there anything I can do? Is his wife okay?” His tone became soft, and my heart clenched at how sweet he was being. “I’ll have the helicopter sent over so she can be with him without having to drive.”

I gasped but remained still. This guy had access to a helicopter? And he was willing to send it off to help someone?

“Of course, I’ll get it taken care of. Thanks for letting me know. I’ll be home in a few days.” He chuckled and I had to bite my lip to keep my smile contained. It was such a genuine sound, so unconstrained. “I love you too. Tell Dad hi for me.”

He hung up and slid back onto his stool. “I’m sorry about that.”

I shook my head. “It’s fine. Is everything okay?”

His eyes held mine for a moment. “Yes, my great uncle is ill and my mum was giving me an update.”