Page 24 of The Royal Engagement

He continues like I didn’t even speak. “As for you saying they’re prettier than you, that is a downrightlie. Your cousins have nothing on you. You’re so beautiful, Maddie. They’re just jealous, that’s the only explanation for their behavior.”

The thought of my gorgeous succubi cousins being jealous of me is enough to almost make me laugh. But the way Damek looks at me…

Is he serious?

I tuck a strand of hair behind my ear. “But I’m only—”

He cuts me off. “Half succubus, yes. But you’re far more charming and charismatic than your cousins.”

My breath gets caught in my throat.

He’s saying that after meeting them. And he doesn’t seem like he’s just trying to make me feel better. It’s almost like he genuinely means the words.

But… how? How could he possibly feel that way after meeting them? They’re so beautiful and perfect. I’m the one with flaws.

“You’re surprised.” Damek studies me and shakes his head slightly. “I wish you could see yourself the way I see you.” He pauses. “Someday, you will.”

“I will?” I ask.

He nods. “Once we get married and we have a mate bond, I will be able to share my thoughts and feelings with you.”

Oh, right.

My cheeks grow warm at the thought ofthat.

“There is something I want to talk to you about,” Damek says.

I clear my throat as I look at him. “What is it?”

His heart rate slightly increases, which leads me to believe that he’s nervous. I sit up straighter as I wonder what he’s about to say.

“Next week, my family is going on vacation—it’s something we do every year around this time. And I was wondering if you would come with us.” Damek looks at me with hope in his eyes.

He wants me to come on vacation with his family?

My heart swells at the idea that he wants me there. But then I think of his mother. I’m certain she would be happier if I didn’t come.

“What about your mom?” I ask, not breaking eye contact.

He doesn’t flinch or react at all. “I want you to come. I think that once my mother spends a little time with you and gets to know you, she will adore you as much as I do.”

Headoresme?

Why does him saying that give me butterflies?

Still, I don’t want to give in just yet. I want to make sure he knows what he’s doing by inviting me.

“Damek, it’s your last vacation with your family before our wedding. Shouldn’t you enjoy your last time alone with them before you’re stuck with me?” I ask.

He grins. “You’re already part of my family. When I asked my dad to put in an alliance request with the Scott Clan, I knew exactly what that meant. I wanted to marry you and I’m sorry if I haven’t made my part in this very clear.”

He wants to marry me.

Some part of my gut loosens at his confession and I feel lighter.

“You didn’t know that I wanted to marry you?” Damek’s brows knit together.

I shrug. “I don’t know. I guess I thought you were kind of forced into this. You’re twenty-five, which I know is still young but most vampires are married by your age. I figured you were being pushed into making a decision and figured I was your best option.”

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