Page 81 of His Royal Request

“You can’t be scared about talking to Charlie when you just resigned from your company. Talking to her should be a breeze in comparison.”

I leaned back against the headrest. “You’d think that, but I’m actually more terrified of losing her than my company.”

His eyebrows shot up. “This is serious.”

“That’s what I’ve been trying to tell you.”

“Son, men are lucky to find love once in their lives. Don’t miss your chance because you’re afraid. A second chance may never come.”

“When did you become so wise?”

He chuckled as we pulled into the palace grounds. “I’ve always been wise. It’s you who’s been too dumb to listen.”

I laughed and got out of the car once we parked. I had news to share and I couldn’t wait to tell my family and Charlie.

Ms. Fiona, one of the head maids was walking by when I stopped her. “Can you please have everyone meet me in the green room?”

She nodded and took off at a brisk walk. I went to the sitting room and began pacing while I waited.

Cian and Dad were the first to arrive, probably because they were in the office just down the hall.

“Aiden, what’s going on?” Dad asked looking concerned.

“I have news to share, but I’d like to wait until we’re all here.”

He nodded once and sat while Cian rolled his eyes behind him. “What’s such a big deal you had to interrupt our meeting?”

“What’s so important that you’re annoyed having to hear from your brother?”

Cian shook his head but didn’t complain again.

Soon, my mother, Ronan, Isla, and Charlie had gathered and were waiting with various levels of anticipation.

“Okay, son, we’re all here now tell us what this is about,” Dad asked with a patient tone. I knew it annoyed Cian to no end which just made this all the more enjoyable.

“I made a decision today, and since it impacts all of you in different ways, I wanted to share it with you all at once.”

A few of them shared looks before I continued. “I resigned as CEO today. I offered the position to Margaret and she accepted. We signed the paperwork and the announcement will be made tomorrow.”

Isla and Ronan shared a knowing look while Charlie watched me with a proud smile. Mom was stunned but finally stood and hugged me. “I’m so proud of all you’ve accomplished, honey.”

She stepped back and smiled as my dad moved around her and hugged me as well. “I can’t imagine this was an easy decision for you. But I’m also very proud of you.”

Cian met my gaze and nodded once. It wasn’t much but I knew it meant he respected my decision.

“So, what’s next, brother?” Isla asked with a trace of sarcasm.

I eyed her before turning to my parents. “It’s time I embrace my duties as Prince. I’ll do whatever is asked of me.”

Mum was beaming, but my father was silent for a moment. He finally sighed. “That’s great to hear, son.”

Isla clapped silently. She’d been right and would enjoy rubbing it my face for years to come. I guess I deserved that.

“Well, now that you’re done can I get back to my work?” Cian interrupted the good vibes in the room and left before anyone could respond.

“What crawled up his--”

“Isla.” Mom scolded before she could finish her thought.