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“Only for a short time,” Nolan said cautiously, cringing at the crestfallen look on Kiera’s face. It was smarter to set that parameter now, and pray he could change it. “We’ll savor the time while we have it.”
Kiera nodded bravely. “Unless we talk you into staying longer.”
Exactly his thoughts. Kiera being on the same page was the push he needed to pursue Madeline.
Madeline smiled at that. “Your dad is right. Let’s enjoy the time we have.”
Nolan wished she’d corrected both of them and said she’d never leave. How to convince her?
They reached Madeline’s door, and Kiera gave her an impulsive hug. “See you at dinner tomorrow.”
“I’ll see you then, sweet girl.”
Kiera turned.
“Goodnight,” Nolan said.
“Night.”
He forced himself to pivot and follow his daughter down the hall toward the staircase. The guest suites were a floor below the family suites.
“Nolan,” Madeline called.
“Yes?” He turned back. Would she ask for a kiss goodnight?
“Could I come hike with you in the morning?”
“Of course. You’re supposed to monitor me at all times, correct?”
“Yes, sir.”
Hiking together might be an excuse to monitor him, but he’d make the most of their time alone, though they’d be trailed by guards. With all of his meetings and large family, they wouldn’t get much time to simply talk.
“I’ll come for you at six,” he said.
“Perfect.” She slipped into her room.
Nolan immediately felt the letdown of not being in her presence.
“I like Chad’s mum,” Kiera said, beaming at him and squeezing his hand.
“Me too, love. Me too.”
What if they both liked her too much? He’d been worried about upsetting Kiera and that issue had resolved easily. Now he was worried about how Kiera would take the hit of her leaving. He should probably be more worried about how he would survive.
Nolan shook his head. He was fifty-five years old, a father of seven, a widower, and a king. He’d survive.
Why was he falling so quick? That was the better question.
The memory of touching Madeline, her quick wit, and the way her emerald eyes mesmerized him all came to mind.
It wasn’t hard to riddle that one out.
Seeing her and Kiera interact so beautifully inspired him. If Kiera could accept and embrace a loving new mum it would be irresponsible of him not to work toward that goal.
Pursuing Madeline seemed not only alluring but sensible and commendable.
He smiled to himself. He could hardly wait for the morning to see her again.
