Page 35 of The Reluctant Heir

“You seriously can’t expect me to take Kaine’s opinion on a potential husband.” I cross my arms over my chest.

Dad looks at me, raising one eyebrow. “It’s more than just choosing a husband. This isn’t just about your future, Madeline. It’s about the future of our clan. To be a good ruler, you have to make sacrifices. You’re the futurequeen.”

His words hit me in the gut.

I suck in a sharp breath.

Oh, my gosh. I’m going to be a queen.

Please, let Lucien come home. Because I don’t think I can handle the pressure of being heir.

Kaine puts his hand on my shoulder. “Come on, Madeline. Let’s go. We have alotto talk about.”

Prince Lucas is coming overto hang out tonight.

Why did Kaine have to start my political dates with him? He knows that I’m not into Lucas like that.

Still, Kaine was very clear on his feelings. The Nodin Clan is a very well respected clan. They’re strong, have a good reputation, and have always been aligned with the Scott Clan. That means it would be rude not to hang out with Prince Lucas.

I don’t worry too much about what I wear—just a simple dress. I don’t even bother fixing my hair, I just leave it down.

Kaine frowns when he sees me.

I cross my arms over my chest, shooting him a glare.

He holds up both hands. “I don’t care that you haven’t changed your outfit all night—you look beautiful no matter what you wear.”

I roll my eyes at his compliment. “You calling me beautiful doesn’t change the fact that it’s your fault I’m having to go out with this guy.”

He grins. “Suck it up. He’s here. He’s waiting for you in the sitting room. I had the chef make dinner and it should be ready soon.” He turns to walk away but stops abruptly. He points a finger at me. “Oh, and be nice.”

I put my hand to my chest. “Me? I’malwaysnice.”

He narrows his eyes. “YoupunchedPrince Damek.”

I grit my teeth. “For the last time, I was aiming foryou. He just happened to step in the way.”

Kaine smirks. “Whatever you say.”

“Next time, I won’t miss.”

But he ignores me as he turns to walk away.

This guy…

Knowing that stalling won’t help, I turn to head to the sitting room where Prince Lucas is waiting. Before I even walk into the room, I see his white blond hair. It stands out among the decor.

Prince Lucas is supernatural, so he’s not unattractive but his looks alone don’t make him a good marriage candidate. If living with incubi has taught me anything, it’s that looks aren’t everything. And I get that this marriage alliance is important for the clan, but it’s stillmylife. I don’t want to be miserable. So if I can at least have some sort of a friendship established with any potential suitor, that would be for the best. Besides, if I am to be queen, Ishouldbuild friendships with these guys. Because of political ties, I’ll likely be seeing this guy around long after I’m married.

I take a deep breath before forcing myself to walk into the room. Prince Lucas looks up, a grin breaking out on his face. The smile seems genuine like he’s happy to see me. It makes me feel bad for my apprehension.

Prince Lucas stands from his seat, meeting me halfway.

“Wow.” His pale green eyes scan my outfit and eventually land on my face. “You look beautiful.”

Prince Lucas thinks I look beautiful.

Kaine thinks I should change my outfit.

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