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But tonight isn’t a typical black-tie charity event I’m invited to in order to give a speech in the hopes of encouraging people to open their wallets and donate even more money than the exorbitant plate fee. Instead, I’ll be attending with billionaire bachelor and philanthropist Jameson Gates, confirming the rumors the palace PR team started that we’re an item.
To most, it wouldn’t be a big deal. Couples go out in public all the time.
But for a royal, being seen in public with a member of the opposite sex, especially at a formal event, sends a message. And that message is to prepare for wedding bells.
Which is why I’m so anxious about tonight. Once I step out of the limo and take Jameson Gates’ arm, the photographers the palace paid to be there feverishly snapping photos, there will be no turning back. We’ll be committed.
When I hear a knock, I tear my gaze from the windows where I’ve been admiring the city lights, wishing I were just another nobody living on the other side of these walls.
“Come in,” I call out.
The door opens, one of the butlers stepping into my private suite. “Mr. Jameson Gates for you, ma’am.”
I make my way across the room, meeting Jameson as he enters, looking the picture of sophistication wearing a dashing tuxedo that hugs his body in all the right places.
“Your Highness,” he greets with a slight bow as the butler retreats. Once we’re alone, he presses a soft kiss to my cheek. “You look absolutely stunning.” His voice is a seductive murmur, his eyes flaming with appreciation as he takes in my black fitted gown that leaves my back exposed. “Then again, I always find you stunning.”
I want to tell him he doesn’t have to say things like this when we’re in private. Maybe it’s a good thing, though. Maybe it’ll make this feel less…forced. More real.
“Thank you, Jameson.”
“Are you nervous about tonight?”
“It’s going to change a lot. Maybe not for you. You seem to welcome the spotlight. You’re a natural in front of reporters and photographers.”
“And you’re not? I’ve seen how comfortable you are with the public, especially children. And what of the modeling you’ve done? If anyone’s a natural in front of the camera, it’s you.”
“I know. I just—”
“I understand everything’s about to change.” He pinches my chin, tilting my head back, our eyes locking.
A week ago, the idea of sharing a personal moment like this with Jameson Gates made my skin crawl.
Now that I’ve gotten to know him on a deeper level, I actually like spending time with him. He may never make my stomach flutter or my heart skip a beat, but I respect and appreciate him, especially all the work he’s done, most notably in helping refugees from war-torn countries rebuild their lives. Maybe that’s enough for me.
“We may both be used to the spotlight, but going public with our relationship will make us a perpetual target. Every single reporter, photographer, paparazzi will want to be the first to break the news about every single development in our relationship for months and years to come. Just promise me one thing.”
“What’s that?”
“That you won’t shut me out. We’re both in this together. And the only way we’ll get through it is if we have an open line of communication. Not only are we navigating a new relationship—”
“It’s not a new relationship. According to the dossier, we’ve been dating in secret for several months,” I retort sarcastically.
“Of course. My mistake.” He rolls his eyes. “Still. The next few months may be…trying.” He moves his hands to my face, his touch gentle and reassuring. “I just want you to know that you can always talk to me. And I hope I can talk to you. Especially when it comes to the table setting at the state dinner I’m supposed to attend with you at the end of the month.”
He drops his hold on me, running his long fingers through his blond hair, a shy smile tugging on his lips. “I saw the place setting diagram, and the amount of silverware boggles my mind. I grew up attending formal dinners, but we didn’t have that many forks, even during the fanciest of affairs.”
My mouth lifts into a smile as laughter falls from my throat. “To be honest, I don’t even know what all those forks are for.”
“Then I guess we’ll figure it out together. Much like we’ll figure out this.” He gestures between our two bodies.
“I guess we will.”
His light expression sobers, his gaze floating to my lips. He touches a hand to my lower back, pulling me against him as he curves toward me. I close my eyes, the heat of Jameson’s breath dancing on my skin.
Until a knock echoes in the room, forcing Jameson to put some distance between us.
“Come in,” I instruct, somewhat relieved our kiss was interrupted.
