Page 54 of The Beach Hut on Plum Island
“Harriet!” Her father hissed. “Show some respect. Your uncle is still your king.”
A snort came from across the room, and Harriet turned to see Dawn hiding a smile behind her hand. “Sorry. Bad sinuses.”
“I could still disapprove of this union, Princess Harriet,” King Titus warned. “And I should after your total disregard for our traditions and your place in our family.”
“You wouldn’t dare,” Harriet challenged. “As the engagement has already happened, we’ve just not told any ofyouabout it. Do you blame me?”
“Harriet!” her father hissed again and stood beside her. “I’m sorry, Titus. I’m sure Harriet is still upset over what happened last night.”
“Ah, yes, that incident.” King Titus’s gaze shifted to Finn. “Please rest assured, Mr. Shaw, Duke Gladstone’s actions will be dealt with accordingly. I hope you understand that his behavior does not reflect the values of our people or our family.”
“I understand,” Finn replied.
Harriet’s head swiveled to Gloria Gladstone, who looked at Harriet with a cool gaze.
“Why is your family here, Lady Gladstone?” Harriet didn’t care if she was being rude. “My parents and brother were invited to celebrate a dearfamilyfriend’s wedding. I was unaware you or the king,“ she slid her uncle a scathing look, “were invited.”
Something dark flashed in Gloria’s eyes before she gave Harriet a polite smile. “I’m not here to interfere with those festivities,” she assured Harriet. “I’m here to try and get my son out of the mess he has gotten into and ensure Estelle is alright.” She reached over and took Estelle’s hand.
“Mess?” Harriet said in disbelief. “Your son tried to kidnap my fiancé and go to any means to do it. He was going to knock Finn out with a sedative.”
“I realize that,” Gloria said, her eyes sliding to Finn. “Mr. Shaw, if I could ask you to please drop the charges? I can assure you my son will still suffer the consequences of his actions.”
Harriet saw in Finn’s eyes that he was contemplating the idea, so she jumped in before he could say anything, “I’m sorry, Lady Gladstone. But you can’t speak to Mr. Shaw without his attorney present.”
“Harriet!” Titus’s voice boomed through the room. “That’s enough.” They glared at each other angrily. “Lady Gladstone has asked for a favor to avoid an international incident.”
“No!” Harriet shook her head stubbornly.
“Harriet, maybe we should just let this one go,” Finn said for her ears only.
“No!” Harriet looked into his eyes. “I’m sorry, Finn, but if you don’t press charges against Leon, I will do it. He’s not getting off easy again.” Memories of her time with Leon when her uncle first pushed them together flashed through her mind, and her anger blazed. “Leon has been getting away with doing things his whole life. He needs to pay for what he’s done just like anyone else who tried to kidnap with the intent of getting rid of you would.”
“You know this is only going to make the friction between you and King Titus worse?” Finn pointed out.
“I don’t care,” Harriet raised her chin. “My uncle needs to know he can’t bully people.”
“Harriet…” Julie said through gritted teeth. “Please don’t rile the king.”
“Quiet!” King Titus’s voice boomed through the room. “Everyone out!” he ordered. “Except for Princess Harriet. The two of us need to have a little talk.”
“Now, Titus…” Pat stood and approached his brother.
“It’s okay, Father,” Harriet assured him. “I’ll be fine.”
“Are you sure?” Finn asked her, pulling her to him, kissing her forehead, and whispering. “I’m right outside if you need me.”
“I’ll be fine,” Harriet told him with a nod, although she wished he would stay in case she ended up doing something stupid like throwing a chair or something at her uncle.
The room cleared out, leaving King Titus and Harriet glaring at each other. Titus was the first to look away and sighed, his shoulders relaxing as he rubbed his temples.
“This life is getting harder and harder every day.” Titus’s voice dropped, and he sounded exhausted, making Harriet frown in confusion and worry.
“Uncle Titus?” Harriet tilted her head. “Are you okay?”
He looked up at her, and the look in his eyes shocked her.
“No, Harry, I’m not,” Titus admitted. “It seems my plan has horribly backfired on me.”
