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“Remember, we’re here to keep up appearances,” Amanda whispered, giving James’s arm a reassuring squeeze.
“Of course,” James replied, forcing a smile. He couldn’t help but scan the room for her, anxious to see the stunning evening gown she’d borrowed from his sister. And when he finally spotted her, his heart skipped a beat.
Amanda looked breathtaking in a floor-length, off-the-shoulder gown that seemed to shimmer with every movement. The deep sapphire color of the dress perfectly complemented her eyes, which sparkled like precious gems. Her hair was swept up into a delicate updo, and her lips were painted a bold red that managed to be both elegant and daring.
“Wow,” James breathed, unable to tear his gaze away from her. “You look... amazing.”
“Thank you,” Amanda replied, a hint of a blush coloring her cheeks. “You clean up quite nicely yourself.”
James chuckled, feeling a warmth spread through his chest. He knew this wasn’t the time or place for them to explore their feelings, yet he couldn’t help but steal glances at Amanda throughout the night. There was something about her strength, grace, and unwavering professionalism that made him fall deeper in love with her every day.
“Shall we?” James asked, extending his arm to Amanda. She placed her hand on his forearm, and they moved together effortlessly as they navigated the room, exchanging pleasantries with guests and sipping champagne.
As the gala continued, the din of laughter and clinking glasses filled the grand ballroom of the royal palace. The chandeliers above sparkled like stars in a night sky, casting a warm glow over the guests who swirled around the room in their finest attire.
“Your Majesty,” an older gentleman greeted James with a bow, his voice thick with an accent that hinted at his foreign origins. “I must say, the caviar tonight is quite delectable.”
“Ah, yes,” James replied, grinning playfully. “Our chef has truly outdone himself this time. I’m glad you’re enjoying it.”
In the midst of the revelry, Amanda remained vigilant. Her earpiece buzzed with occasional updates from security, her eyes discreetly sweeping across the room as she ensured all was well.
“Would you care for some more champagne, Your Highness?” a waiter asked James, extending a silver tray toward him.
“Thank you,” James replied, taking a flute and raising it to his lips. He glanced sideways at Amanda, giving her a knowing wink. “To our wonderful hosts.”
“Cheers,” Amanda responded softly, allowing herself a small smile as they clinked their glasses together.
“Tell me, Your Highness,” a woman with a dazzling array of diamonds dripping from her neck inquired, sidling up to James. “How is the restoration of the old library coming along?”
“Slowly but surely,” James answered, his tone light and jovial. “We’ve encountered a few...shall we say, architectural surprises along the way. But nothing a little hard work can’t handle.”
The woman laughed, clearly captivated by James’s charm. Amanda, however, sensed something else in her gaze—a lingering curiosity, perhaps even a hint of suspicion. She made a mental note to keep an eye on her as the night went on.
James continued to engage with the guests, effortlessly shifting from one conversation to another. Amanda marveled at his ability to navigate social situations with such grace and wit. It was easy to see why he was so beloved by his people.
“Your Majesty,” a man with a bushy mustache exclaimed, slapping James on the back. “I must know, what is the secret to your legendary sense of humor?”
“Ah, my good man,” James replied, his eyes twinkling with mirth. “The secret lies in never taking oneself too seriously.”
As laughter rippled through the crowd, Amanda couldn’t help but feel a swell of admiration for James. Though she maintained her professional demeanor, it was becoming increasingly difficult to ignore the emotions building up inside her.
A sudden shift in the crowd caught Amanda’s attention, and she instinctively reached down to adjust her ankle holster. The subtle movement would be unnoticed by most, but it ensured that her gun was easily accessible if any threats should arise. She couldn’t afford to let her guard down for even a moment, not with James being the center of attention.
“Ah, Lady Amanda,” a woman with a wide-brimmed hat gushed as she approached. “You must tell me all about your relationship with His Majesty.”
“Of course,” Amanda replied, managing a polite smile as she discreetly scanned the room for potential dangers. “It has been an honor to be chosen by him.”
“Indeed, you two make such a lovely pair,” the woman winked before drifting off into the crowd.
As Amanda returned her focus to James, she caught his gaze from across the room. He offered a secret smile, making her heart flutter despite her best efforts to remain composed. It was those stolen glances that made it so difficult to maintain a strictly professional demeanor. Their chemistry was palpable, even amidst the chaos of the event.
“Isn’t this a wonderful evening?” James remarked as they briefly found themselves standing side by side. The playful twinkle in his eyes made it clear that he was fully aware of the effect he had on her.
“Very much so,” Amanda responded, her voice steady despite the warmth creeping up her cheeks. She knew she shouldn’t indulge in these moments, but it was becoming increasingly difficult to resist the magnetic pull between them.
“Your Majesty!” a boisterous man called out from the crowd. “May I have the pleasure of introducing you to my daughter?”
“Of course,” James said graciously, turning his attention to the eager gentleman and his shy daughter.
