Page 118 of Duty and Desire

A woman who would understand my predicament in a heartbeat.

I approached the French doors and tapped on the glass.

Daniela jerked her head toward me. She blinked, then got up from her chair and came over to me. She opened the door.

“It’s very late. Is there something I can do for you, Mr. Colonna?”

I squared my shoulders. “I need some help, Miss Risch, and I think you can provide it.”

She arched her eyebrows. “Then you’d better come in.”

My pulse quickened as I crossed the threshold.

I hope I’m doing the right thing.

For both of us.

I tapped on Claudia’s door, and a moment later I heard movement. My first glance told me she hadn’t been asleep.

“A little late for a visit, don’t you think? It’s one o’clock.”

“I only knocked when I saw your light was on.”

She stood aside. “Come in. You’re my second visitor tonight.”

I went inside, and she closed the door.

“I’m assuming Franz was the first,” I said as she directed me to an armchair.

Claudia huffed. “His motive wasn’tamorous—unfortunately. He’s worried sick. So am I, if it comes to that.” She poured herself a glass of water.

“He told you what’s happened?”

She nodded. “Lord, what a mess.” She took the other chair and sat, crossing her legs encased in burgundy silk pajamas. “I can’t see a way out of this.”

“But I can. That’s why I’m here.” My heart pounded. “I’m leaving.”

Claudia stared at me, open-mouthed. “But… you can’t.”

“Give me one reason why I should stay.”

Her eyes widened. “Sure, I’ll give you a reason—Nick. He needs you.”

I pushed out a sigh. “No, he doesn’t. In fact, having me around just complicates the situation.” I cocked my head. “What did you think would happen? He’d sayYeah, you’re right, I won’t marry Karoline—I’ll marry you instead? Neither of us are that naive, Claudia. You told me yourself about the way things are in Eisenland. You think the people are going to sit back and accept a gay King?” I took a breath. “Besides, it’s all arranged.”

“What’sall arranged?”

“Daniela Risch has organized my travel arrangements. I’m on a train to Switzerland in the morning, then however many flights it takes to get me back to San Francisco. It isn’t an early train, but I’ll be leaving the palace first thing.” I paused. “And there’s something I’d like you to do for me. I’m going to my room now to write a letter. Would you see Nick gets it?”

Claudia stared at me, her face pale. “You… you’re not going to say goodbye to him?”

My chest tightened. “I’m going to make a clean break. It’s for the best. Seeing him… I wouldn’t be able to say everything I wanted.” I huffed. “Hey. At least he gets a letter. That’s an improvement on whatIgot.”

The words sounded petty and childish, and I regretted them the instant they left my lips.

She sipped her water. “I bet this made Daniela happy. With you gone, that’s one thorn she can dislodge from her side. I imagine the ministers will share her relief. And don’t get me started on Karoline.” Her face fell. “But I can name two people whowon’tbe happy.”

I stood, went over to her, and hauled her to her feet before hugging her.

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