Page 83 of The Billionaire's Royal Challenge

“Sorry,” he said, letting his muscles go a little looser than the rigid, tense hold he had.

“There is no need to be nervous, dear, I don’t bite.” She grinned at him.

He laughed a little too much at the joke as they began moving to the music. “Sorry, again. I’m…not very sure of the steps. I’m nowhere near as polished as His Majesty.”

“No one expects you to master all facets of royal life in less than a week.”

He swallowed hard, forcing a smile onto his face as he sought to recall the topics he was supposed to discuss. “I’m just…I want to prove that–”

“That you can marry my daughter?” she finished for him.

He nodded, and she matched his expression. “Yes, I understand. However, that really comes down more to your ability to accept Elena’s lifestyle than how polished your footwork is.”

His forehead creased as he desperately tried to remember his steps and hold up his end of the conversation. Why had it looked so easy when Elena danced with her father?

“It is quite important that she have a supportive spouse. One who understands the demands that will be placed on her as Queen of Eldoria. It can be grueling. There will be times when she kisses you goodbye before the sun rises and does not see you until the sun sets if at all.”

“Yes, I understand. I…want to support her very much.”

“She feels that you would be up to the task, too.”

“And what do you think?” Nate asked, immediately wondering if he shouldn’t have.

“I think that you have potential.” As shemade her last statement, the dance ended. The dancers came to a halt to applaud before moving to other partners for a more relaxed dance or leaving the floor to mingle.

After a kiss on his cheek, Elena left her father’s side and hurried to Nate. “And how did he do, Mother? Are all your toes intact?”

“Quite. An admirable job for a beginner. If you’ll excuse me.” With a slight bow of her head, she stepped away, leaving them alone.

“You did fantastic from what I could see,” Elena gushed. “And Father stopped during the procession. Quite a good sign.”

Before he could answer, someone bumped into him, sloshing liquid all over his sleeve. “Oh, terribly sorry, Kingsley,” Eric said. “My apologies.”

He offered the man a less-than-genuine smile as he brushed the liquid off.

“Oh, let me fetch a towel,” Elena began as the man shook his head.

“Actually, I’m certain Caroline can assist. I hoped to have the next dance with you.”

“Sorry, but–” she began.

“I insist. It will give Mr. Kingsley a chance to clean up.” Prince Eric handed his glass off to a man who trailed him as he held his arm out to Elena.

“Go ahead,” Nate said. “I’ll be right back.”

She smiled and nodded before she accepted Prince Eric’s arm. Nate grimaced as he led her to the dance floor and smoothly pulled her into position to glide across the floor. They spoke as they danced.

“Think nothing of it,” Caroline said as she patted his arm with a towel. “Polite courtesy between countries. It is an unfortunate part of the role. She will dance with many men who find her charming and beautiful. But she will be yours.”

“Thanks, Caroline. I think I needed to hear that.”

“You’re welcome, now go ask her to dance.”

Nate grinned at her. “I will.”

As the dancers applauded again, he made a beeline to her.

“All cleaned up, Kingsley?” Prince Eric asked.

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