Page 104 of Bride By Coronation

"I'm glad you wanted to take the yacht," I admit.

She looks at me like I'm crazy. "Why wouldn't I?"

I shrug. "I try not to assume things."

She studies me. The doors open, and she softly states, "I like that about you."

"Yeah?"

She nods. "Definitely."

My heart thumps harder. I motion for her to go first.

She steps onto the roof. Dawn is approaching, but it's still dark.

I put my arm around her waist, turn the corner, and the wind from the chopper blades hits us. I shield her with my body, and shout, "Iforgot to bring a pair of sunglasses for you. Keep your eyes shut so nothing flies in them."

She obeys.

I put my head down, quickly lead her to the helicopter, help her in, then slide beside her. We buckle our seat belts, and I remove her tiara. I hand her a helmet. "Put this on."

She slides it on her head and takes the box.

I put mine on, grip the tiara, and the chopper lifts off the ground.

She stares out the window in awe at the city's lights, declaring, "I've never been to Pompeii before now."

"Next trip, I'll show you around. It's full of history, and I think you'll appreciate it," I tell her.

Approval fills her expression.

It doesn't take long before we land on the yacht. I help Fiona out, the chopper takes off, and I lead her toward the staff.

They're lined up in a row. The men bow, and the women curtsy.

"Your Majesties," they offer in unison.

"Thank you," I reply.

Sergio, the head manager, steps forward. "Sir. It's wonderful to see you again. And, ma'am, it is a great honor to meet you. Myself and the rest of the staff look forward to serving you."

Fiona takes a deep breath. "Thank you."

I tug her closer, remembering how overwhelming it was when I first became king. I hold out the tiara. "Sergio, this needs to go into the safe."

"Yes, sir. I will do it right away," he replies.

"Thank you." I take the box from Fiona, adding, "And please put this on ice. I believe my bride would like a glass at some point today?" I arch my eyebrows at her.

She grins. "Yes!"

I chuckle.

"Will do. Maria," Sergio calls out.

A woman steps forward. She curtsies in front of Fiona, gushing, "Such an honor, my queen."

Fiona fidgets in discomfort, forcing a smile. "Thank you. It's nice to meet you. All of you," she adds, glancing at the entire staff, one by one.

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