Page 39 of A Tenuous Betrothal
“Yes, mostly to hear what you think of them. I suspect we will share similar thoughts.”
“I’d like that.” She studied his face.
“Would you?” The sparkle in his eyes grew.
“I’d like very much to hear your thoughts—on some things.” She smirked. “But, truthfully, I find I respect your opinion.”
“Hmm. That matters to me.” He lifted his eyes to his friends, who were still lost in each other’s attention. “I’m pleased for them.”
“Can anyone find what they have? A love match?”
He placed a hand over hers. “I suspect there is a great possibility, if given the opportunity to choose.”
“Which you have gifted me. Shall I thank you again?”
His smile grew. “I don’t know if you will be glad after tonight’s ball.”
The carriage slowed. They would arrive soon. And his expression changed. “I feel I should warn you, perhaps. The men are... well, they are not as sincere or respectful as we would like them to be.”
“What do you mean?”
They pulled to a stop.
“Just promise me you won’t make any rash decisions and that you will take care what you tell people.”
She nodded slowly.
“And don’t go anywhere alone with anyone.”
“Yes, I know—”
Their door opened. “Oh, and promise not to judgemetoo harshly tonight either.”
“Judge... you?”
A group of women stood close to their carriage. “I see him! Prince Marc is here! Do you see any of the others?”
He stepped out, and the sounds of pleased women grew. But he just waved and turned back to offer his hand to Rhi. “The other thing I forgot to mention?”
“Yes?” Rhi knew her eyebrow was lifted high, but she couldn’t decide if she was going to be bothered or enamored or merely curious about Prince Marc at this ball.
“My brothers have arrived as well.”
“What?” Her heart thumped an extra beat. Were they to be considered as additional suitors?
“Yes, they were running late, so we left them to take another carriage.”
Still reeling from the news of two more Wilhelm princes at the ball, she placed her hand in his and stepped out of the carriage.
The crowd quieted. Many eyes now turned to her.
“Just as I suspected. Miss Davies, take care.” The prince lifted her hand to his mouth and kissed it. “I will stay as close as I can, and my brothers will help. But remember, do not go anywhere alone.” His smile was playful, but his eyes were serious.
They hurried up the steps and into the building, following after Bar-tholomew and Sophie, who were farther up ahead. “Am I in danger here?” She glanced around quickly to find many eyes were on her, then looked back up into Prince Marc’s face.
“Not at all. But you are likely the most beautiful woman they have ever seen. Use that power wisely.”
“It matters that much? That I am beautiful?”
