His Royal Regret: Royals of Lochland Book 2 Read online

  “Cian had to take a call, so he will meet you.”

  “Okay.” I really wanted a minute with him to calm myself, but there went that plan. I followed Lewis to the left-wing of the house and to a glass door that let out to a garden with a table in the middle. I could see King Leo and Queen Anne waiting. They were talking and smiling. That was a good sign. They were in a good mood, hopefully, that continued once they met me.

  “I’ll announce you.” He took a step forward but I touched his arm.

  “Lewis?”

  He turned and studied me with patience. “Yes?”

  I checked through the door to make sure they weren’t watching us. “Is this a correct curtsy?” I put one foot behind the other and bent both knees while tilting my head down. When I stood up, I waited for his approval.

  “That’s just fine, Miss Serena.” He smiled. “You will do well.”

  His vote of confidence helped. “Thank you.”

  “Ready?”

  I nodded quickly then held my breath while he opened the door and stepped out. “Your majesties, I present to you, Serena Rothschild.”

  I stepped forward at my name and immediately curtsied.

  “It’s a pleasure, Serena.” The queen smiled at me. Her blue eyes matched Cian’s and her straight hair was a light brown and pulled up in a French twist. She was pure elegance and grace.

  “The pleasure is mine, Your Majesty.”

  The king eyed me. He was an older looking Cian with blonde hair, but his eyes were a darker shade of blue. He was refined and much fitter than I expected. He looked like he could lead an army at a moments notice. “You’re the American my son brought here?”

  I curtsied again, just in case. I really, really should have done more research before I came down here. I wanted to run away and ask someone what to do. “Yes, Your Majesty.”

  I peeked up at him to see a small smile. “You may sit,” he said.

  That I knew how to do. “Thank you.” I took the chair across from the queen, feeling that was the safer choice.

  “Cian speaks highly of you.” The queen offered another gentle smile.

  “Yes,” the king said. “Apparently, you work with an organization that builds schools and orphanages.” The king spoke with such authority you would think he was making a public declaration rather than stating a simple fact about me.

  “That’s correct, your…his…” I began to stutter trying to remember the correct title to use.

  “You may call me Leo.”

  I nearly gasped but nodded. “Thank you, sir.”

  “I understand it is a bit of a maze understanding royal etiquette as an American.” He said as if I was at a disadvantage.

  I tried not to take offense to his words, but he made it seem like my nationality was a weakness.

  “That’s true.” I kept my answers simple and agreeable. Where was Cian? I fought the urge to look around for him.

  “Our Isla is a philanthropist as well,” the queen said, offering a lifeline. “Her heart is with schools also.”

  I nodded. “She told me. We discussed collaborating on a project.”

  The queen’s smile turned genuine. “That would be lovely.”

  Silence. Where was Cian?

  “You’re the reason our son is suddenly interested in the children's hospitals,” Leo stated.

  I swallowed. “I’m not sure I can take very much credit. He came along with me when I was volunteering, but I never mentioned renovating the hospitals here.”

  The queen rested her hands on her lap. “You’re too gracious. This was your doing. Our son has always been a determined man but it wasn’t until he returned from the book tour that his interest in philanthropy developed. His sister and I have tried for years, but it took meeting you.”

  “Yes, he was never interested in things outside his area of responsibility, but between you and Aiden stepping in, he’s a changed man.” I blushed at Leo’s words. I didn’t want to take credit for anything, but I was glad they’d noticed a change.

  “He used to have his focus on his tasks, but I’ve noticed he’s been distracted lately.” The king continued.

  I cringed. I wasn’t getting credit. I was being blamed. “I’m sorry. I never meant for that to happen.”

  Leo’s steady gaze made me want to fidget, but I knew that would not impress either of them. I held my head up and heard the door open. I turned to see Cian walking out and relief flooded through me. I wanted to run to him, wrap my arms around him, and beg him to never leave me alone with them again.

  “I apologize for the delay.” He glanced at me with concern and sat down in the empty chair. He took my hand in his and I felt assured for the first time.

  “Is there a problem?” His father asked with a furrowed brow.

  “Not at all.” Cian’s gaze fixed on his father. “What have I missed?”

  “Serena was just telling us about her work,” Queen Anne offered.

  That was nice of her to skip over her husband’s last comment.

  “She’s wonderful, isn’t she?” Cian’s eyes glowed. “She’s incredibly dedicated to the hospital and animal shelter she volunteers at as well.”

  I smiled at the praise but noticed the king didn’t seem impressed, his eyes narrowed just slightly.

  Leo turned his attention back to me. “I remember David telling us about your family’s shipping company. How is business?”

  I was caught off guard by the sudden change of topic but did my best not to show it. “It’s doing very well. My father retired this year, so David is in charge.”

  Leo stroked his jaw. “David is an impressive young man. I’m sure he’ll do great things as the head of the company.”

  Well, I was sure glad David had won the man over. That didn’t seem to help my case at all though.

  The king pinned me with his gaze. “Do you do much fundraising? I’m sure your family’s circle is happy to fund your projects.”

  Ah. There it was. He thought I was mooching off my family and was looking for some fresh bank accounts.

  “Actually,” Cian interjected, “Serena uses her mother’s maiden name while working. She doesn’t affiliate with the Rothschild’s circle.”

  I nodded. “I prefer to apply for grants and other funding so the schools and orphanages have the opportunity to work to be self-sufficient. I’ve seen that they are more successful that way.”

  The queen’s eyes lit up, looking pleased. Leo’s stone expression never changed.

  “That’s admirable. I’m sure that’s not easy.” Queen Anne offered.

  “It’s not, but I was determined to make it on my own without my family’s help.”

  Something flashed in Leo’s eyes, but I didn't want to attempt to decipher what it could mean. I felt this conversation sinking, but I seemed to be the only one concerned. Luckily, Cian changed the topic to our afternoon drive. The three of them reminisced about different experiences at Robby’s pub while I took the opportunity to gather myself. I needed to say something to prove to them that my intentions were pure. I wasn’t here for the perks of being with the prince. I wasn’t out for their friend’s money. I just fell in love with their son.

  That was it. I blinked back the tears that threatened to reveal themselves. I knew I loved him but I’d been too scared to tell him earlier. I couldn't deny it anymore. I loved him, but more importantly, I wanted to be with him. Whatever that meant.

  There was a break in their conversation and I decided to speak up. “I really appreciate you both taking the time to get to know me. Neither Cian nor I were expecting to meet or to develop feelings for each other. It’s been scary to think about what a life with him would mean for me.” I looked to Cian who smiled. “I thought coming here, seeing his world, and meeting you would mean I was giving up my life and my freedoms. I fought him every step of the way, but the truth is I’ve fallen in love with him. I’m still scared about what the future will bring, but I know we can handle anything together.”

&
nbsp; I couldn’t believe I’d just blurted all of that. In front of his parents, but Cian didn’t seem to mind. He took my hand in his and placed a kiss on it. “I love you, too.”

  The breath I took felt like the first one in hours. I felt so much lighter now that the truth was out.

  “My, that’s wonderful to hear.” Queen Anne was beaming at us, but her husband simply watched us, unimpressed.

  “I know this is sudden and I still have a lot to prove,” I said, “but I want you both to know how I feel about your son. I’m here for him, only him.”

  Leo nodded once, the only indication he gave that he’d heard me.

  “Serena,” Cian tightened his hold on my hand. “There’s a gala tomorrow I’d like you to attend with me. Would you mind leaving on Monday?”

  I swallowed and nodded.

  “Wonderful.” The queen stood. “I’ll let Lady Flora know there will be three additional guests.” She went ahead to leave the room, the king hanging back with a scowl.

  “I trust everyone will behave themselves and remember they are our guests and represent us.” The king stood and followed his wife before I could think of a response, leaving me and Cian alone.

  “He doesn’t like me.” I whispered and dropped my my head onto his shoulder.

  “He’s just being cautious. He puts up an intimidating front, but he’s just protective. I promise once he gets to know you he’ll soften up.”

  I blew out a breath. “I can’t believe I spilled my feelings like that in front of your parents.” I dropped

  He chuckled. “It was brave, my love.” He kissed the top of my head. “It won’t always be like this.”

  “I hope not.” I said with a heavy sigh.

  “I’ll have Isla order in some gowns for you and Vanessa to try on. I’m excited for you to come with me. It will be our first outing as a couple.”

  I raised my face to his and he bent down to kiss me. It wasn’t light, or short this time. The pressure of his soft lips against mine pushed away the fears swirling in my mind. He was all I needed. If he was by my side, I could face anything.

  He pulled back, resting his forehead against mine.

  “Say it again,” he murmured.

  “Say what?” I asked still a bit dazed.

  “That you love me.”

  I smiled. “I love you, Cian.”

  “I love you, too.”

  He kissed me once more and I slid my fingers through his hair, holding him close to me. His hand dropped down to my back while the other caressed my cheek.

  A throat cleared and we pulled apart, turning toward the sound. Isla stood there with a wide smile. “Sorry to interrupt but Mum let me know you might be needing my assistance.”

  I blushed at having been caught and nodded. “Yes, please.”

  She arched an eyebrow and teased, “But it doesn’t look like you two need any of my help.”

  “I think she meant getting ready for the gala,” I said, laughing.

  22

  Cian

  David’s curious gaze was going to make me crack. I couldn’t tell him my plans yet. We were ready for the gala and waiting in my room for the women to finish.

  When we got back from the ride yesterday, I’d gone to David’s room to talk to him. I told him how strongly I felt about Serena and he took it surprisingly well. However, he did issue a warning that if I hurt her, he’d make sure I pay. I understood and promised I’d do everything in my power to keep her safe and happy. He’d told me he thought it would be hard, not only to get Serena to agree to move here full time but also to get the country used to yet another American in the royal family. He was right on both counts, but I wasn’t afraid of the challenges that faced us. As long as Serena would have me, I’d fight for us.

  He’d also given me his father’s cell number. I didn’t tell him what I was going to say or do beyond that.

  Everything was on a tentative, need to know basis and right now he didn’t need to know anything.

  “What’s this one for?” Aiden called from across the room.

  It was the first time in several minutes Aiden spoke. I’d almost forgotten about him sitting in the corner on his phone.

  “Endangered species,” I answered.

  He nodded. “Always a solid choice.”

  David straightened his bow tie in the mirror. “How much should I donate?”

  I looked at Aiden. Our donations were always managed by our accounting team. “Do you know?”

  Aiden shrugged. “A few thousand?”

  I nodded. “If you want, I can ask Lewis what we normally donate.”

  David shook his head. “I’m sure Serena will have a suggestion. I’ll make it in our family’s name.”

  There was such a stark difference between him and his sister. She lived frugally and was determined to do everything on her own, while he welcomed what his family’s name provided him. He also used it to help others, but he wasn’t shy about using his influence to get things done.

  A knock sounded at the door. Lewis peered in. “The ladies are ready.”

  “Thank you.” I stood and we followed him out and down the stairs to where the four women waited for us.

  Serena gazed up at me and I winked earning a blush in return. She was wearing a purple ball gown with her hair flowing down her back in cascading curls. She was a vision. I went up to her and touched the small of her back. “You’re breathtaking.”

  “Thank you. You’re quite handsome yourself.”

  I kissed her briefly and looked around. Isla was wearing a glittering gold gown, Vanessa looked like an old Hollywood vixen in a vintage-inspired gown and Charlie wore a soft green dress that brought out her eyes.

  “Wow.” Aiden whistled. “How did three scoundrels like us get lucky enough to escort such an exquisite group?”

  The women giggled before the front doors opened and we exited.

  We moved to the limo together, crowding in so we could ride together. Serena settled next to me. “Is there anything we should know before we get there? Who to curtsy to?”

  “No,” I said, “a polite nod and smile are all that’s needed. My parents will be there, but you don’t have to curtsy to them.” She didn’t seem appeased. “I will be with you the entire time. Don’t worry.”

  “Promise?”

  I nodded. “Of course.”

  When we pulled into the line in front of Lady Flora’s estate I turned to the group. “The press will be here in full force. Lady Flora loves the attention, so be prepared. Once we get inside, they won’t be allowed to talk to us and will have to remain at a distance, but walking up to the entrance will be…” I searched for the best word.

  “Overwhelming,” Charlie said.

  “Annoying,” Aiden countered.

  “Like walking a red carpet,” Isla said in a reassuring tone. “They will be shouting questions but you just need to smile and keep walking.”

  “It’ll be fine.” I reassured. “ We’ll take some pictures then you three can go in while we talk to the press.”

  Serena stared out the window, looking a bit stunned. I glanced over to David who nodded. At least he was ready for this.

  When the limo pulled up to the entrance, the door opened and I stepped out first. The clicking of cameras, shouts from every direction, and blinding light of flashes disoriented me. I held out my hand for Serena and helped her out, blocking her from view.

  “Just smile and hold my hand,” I whispered to her. “It will be over in a few seconds.”

  She nodded, pasting a smile in place.

  When I turned and led her up the stairs the noise grew to an impossible level. The prince showing up holding hands with an unknown woman was breaking news. Every single reporter and photographer here would want the story.

  “Who is your date?”

  “What’s her name?”

  “Who is this, Cian?”

  The voices began to blur. I checked on Serena who was facing the cameras with a stunned smile.
/>   “How should I introduce you?” I asked her.

  She met my eyes as her smile wavered. “This is the beginning, isn’t it?”

  She was probably referring to the drama Charlie faced when the press got a hold of her information.

  I nodded. “This is it, but only if you want.”

  Her smile returned. “I’m ready.”

  My heart swelled in my chest. It meant so much to me that she was going full in. She was committing to this life, with a huge step.

  I leaned down and kissed her temple. “I promise I will always protect you.”

  Her eyes flickered to mine before facing the mass. It was time.

  I nodded to the cameras and the noise dropped instantly. “I’d like to introduce you to Serena Rothschild, my girlfriend.”

  There was a beat of silence before the questions and screaming returned. That was all they were getting at the moment. Her name and who she was to me. I glanced back, the rest of our group was out of the limo and making their way toward us.

  When David got closer, I turned to him. “Please take them inside. I’ll meet you there in a moment.”

  He nodded and looped Serena and Vanessa’s arms around his, leading them past the mayhem. Once they were safely inside, I posed for a few more pictures then obliged the requests for pictures with my brother and sister as Charlie discreetly escaped.

  We only stood out there for another minute or so before taking our leave. If we gave in to every request for a photo or interview, we’d be there for days. I relaxed the instant we were through the doors. Quiet music played in the background and servers sauntered through the grand rooms.

  “So, are we ever going to be able to leave here?” Vanessa asked with a teasing tone.

  “What do you mean?” I searched the rest of their faces for a hint. Serena’s was flushed and David seemed mildly annoyed.

  Vanessa held up her phone. There was already a picture of Serena and I posted with the headline ‘The Future Queen?’. Wonderful.

  “That was fast,” Aiden said with a smirk.

  “They definitely have us beat,” Charlie said laughing.

  “This isn’t funny. What are we going to do?” Vanessa tapped her phone a few more times. “Look, they already have a bio on her with a picture of our house in L.A. They know where we live.”