Page 30 of His Royal Matchmaker

I drop my eyes to my clipboard, my face burning.What was that? Did I imagine it?

When I dare to look up again, he’s focused on his date, nodding at something she’s saying. I must have imagined it. The stress, the long hours, the foreign country — they’re all conspiring to make me see things that aren’t there.

Because Prince Hugo Bastien isn’t interested in me. He’s made that crystal clear from our first meeting, with his cool demeanor and reluctant participation. The only reason he’s being moderately pleasant now is because I’ve proven I can do my job.

That’s all.

The final timer chimes, and I step forward to thank everyone for participating. My voice is steady as I explain the next steps — how I’ll be analyzing today’s interactions and setting up more in-depth dates with promising candidates. The women nod and smile, some casting hopeful glances at Hugo, who stands with perfect royal posture beside me.

“Thank you for your time, ladies,” he says, his voice formal but warm. “It was a pleasure meeting each of you.”

As the candidates file out, making small talk among themselves, I busy myself with gathering my notes and avoiding Hugo’s eyes. I need to maintain professional distance now more than ever.

“Well?” he asks when we’re alone. “How did I do?”

I look up, composing my face into its best professional mask. “Much better than I anticipated, Hu— Your Highness. I have several promising matches to pursue.”

Is it my imagination, or does something like disappointment flicker across his face?

“Good,” he says after a moment. “That’s… good. And remember, you can call me Hugo.”

My throat tightens.I’d rather not.

“I’ll prepare detailed profiles of the top candidates for your review tomorrow.” I clutch my clipboard like it might save me from drowning. “And then we can?—”

“You seemed distracted today,” he interrupts.

My heart stops. “Did I?”

“Yes.” His eyes study me with that intensity that seems to miss nothing. “Is everything all right?”

“Of course.” I force a bright smile. “Just making mental notes.” I start to turn away but then stop. “Actually, I was thinking that when I return to LA, I should take some time off. I haven’t had a proper vacation in years.”

“Ah.” He nods slowly. “That sounds… sensible.”

“Two weeks, I think,” I continue, babbling now. “Maybe Arizona. They have spas. And the Grand Canyon. Have you ever seen it? It’s supposed to be… grand.”

I cringe.Wow. Smooth.

A small smile plays at the corner of his mouth. “I haven’t had the pleasure.”

“Well, it’s on my list now.” I take a step back, eager to escape before I say something even more ridiculous. “I should compile these notes while everything’s fresh.”

“Of course.” He steps back as well, ever correct. “I look forward to your report tomorrow.”

I nod and hurry toward the door, feeling his eyes on my back the entire way. In the hallway, I allow myself one deep, shaky breath.

Two weeks, I decide firmly. Two weeks of vacation, minimum. And maybe I should look into dating again myself when I get back. Clearly, I’ve been living vicariously through my clients for too long.

Because this feeling — this ridiculous, hopeless attraction — needs to stop. Now. Before I do something truly unprofessional, like imagine that a prince could ever end up living happily ever after with his plebeian matchmaker.

I’m a thorn in his side. An employee. That’s all I am to him. All I should be.

No matter what my traitorous heart might wish.

CHAPTER 14

HUGO

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