Page 31 of His Royal Request

“I knew there was a reason I kept the old bugger around.” I laughed and leaned into her. “She’s kept me on my toes ever since.”

She smiled at me and Isla and Evelyn gazed at us like they were pleased with what they were seeing.

The conversation moved on to Ronan and his adventures at university. As soon as it was appropriate, I excused myself and Charlie and practically ran away with her.

We made it to the front hall before I felt like I could breathe again. I positioned her so that her back was facing the portraits. My mind was spinning. How would I get her to her room without seeing mine?

“Your aunt’s so nice,” she said. “I really like her, but I’m not sure your uncle is a fan of mine.”

I glanced around to make sure there weren’t any listening ears. “I’m sorry. He’s just protective. They really are wonderful. I’m excited for you to meet Nicole, the bride. She’s like another sister. We grew up together.”

“Should I be offended?” Isla appeared around the corner and approached us.

“Of course not. You know you’re my favorite actual sister.”

She chuckled. “That’s good because I totally saved you.”

I looked from her to Charlie. “What do you know?”

She smirked. “That you and Charlie have only known each other for a full day.”

Panic filled Charlie’s eyes. “It’s close to two now,” she said, clearly trying to change the subject.

“What are you planning on doing with that information?” I challenged Isla.

Her hands went to her waist. “I’m on your side, Aiden. Why else do you think I gave Charlie a crash course on tea etiquette before joining? Why else wouldn’t I have outed you when I had the chance?”

She raised a brow and I got her double meaning. She hadn’t told Charlie nor our family the real situation.

I rubbed my neck. “Thank you, Isla.”

She rolled her eyes. “That’s better.”

A butler strode into the hall. “Dinner will be served in an hour in the portrait gallery.” With the same efficiency, he disappeared down the hallway.

My gaze collided with my sister’s. That could only mean one thing. Our parents were home.

Isla’s expression tightened around her eyes. She was just as stressed as I was.

“Charlie, why don’t you go up and change into that gray dress. I’ll be up in a second to help fix your hair.”

Charlie looked between us with suspicious. “Is dinner always a fancy occasion?”

Isla gestured airily. “Just when family is in town.”

Charlie’s eyebrows came together. “Okay.”

She didn’t seem convinced.

“Remember, the groom’s family is titled. So it’s more of a formal event when they’re all together.” I was lying through my teeth and I hated it. Tomorrow morning I’d tell her the truth. We just had to survive tonight.

Charlie moved up the stairs and disappeared around the corner as Ronan approached us. “Mum and Dad are home, and they want to see you. About her.”

I cringed. “How do they already know?”

He rolled his eyes. “You know the house has ears everywhere. I’m sure they knew the moment you landed.”

“But I haven’t told Charlie the truth yet.”