Page 2 of Wicked Devotion

“But you’re not in Kingsley anymore,” Rowan reminded him.

“It doesn’t matter where I am. I am from the royal family. I must abide by the laws of my land, as do my daughters.”

Casen stared at Franklin. “Eldora isn’t from your homeland.”

“True, but she married me. Thus, she has to abide by our royal laws.” Franklin started to cough again but quickly got it under control. “I don’t have much time left, gentlemen. You three were my first choice because I trust you with my greatest treasures.”

“How much time do we have to decide?” Rowan asked.

“Five minutes.”

“What?” Rafael burst out.

“I forgot to tell you that each of them comes with a tremendous dowry.”

Casen walked to the window and stared out before turning to look at Franklin. “If I do this, when would I have to marry her?”

“At once. I want to make it impossible for Eldora to get her hands on them or their inheritance.”

Rowan sighed. “I’ll do it.”

Franklin looked pleased.

“I will also,” Casen said.

Everyone looked at Rafael.

He cursed under his breath and then nodded. “I’ll take her.”

“You gentlemen have no idea how much this means to me.” Franklin stopped and started coughing again. When he was done, he was pale and sweating. “I will have my most trusted servant bring them to you. I have a hotel suite rented for a few days, so you can all get to know each other.”

Rowan cleared his throat. “Do they know anything about this?”

Franklin nodded tiredly. “Unfortunately, they do know what their stepmother is trying to do. I told them I would take care of it and find people to protect them. If, after three days, you three still agree, I will have a reverend there at nine o’clock in the morning to marry you. The paperwork is ready.”

Casen chuckled. “You knew we’d do this?”

“No. I hoped you would, though.”

“The girls will come to you with a small bag, but no more. I don’t want Eldora to get suspicious.”

Rafael scowled. “You’re really worried about her, aren’t you? Can’t you divorce her?”

“It’s complicated. Just know I’ve tried every avenue. I’m glad nothing else worked out. I know I can trust you three to take care of them.”

The four heard a commotion out in the hallway.

“That’s her. Take the packet I have on the nightstand.”

“Is there anything we can do for you?” Rowan asked.

“It’s too late for me. I will look upon the six of you and do my best from above to shelter you.”

“What is the meaning of this?” a screechy voice said from the doorway. “I specifically said no visitors.”

The butler bowed and backed out of the room.

“They are just leaving, dear.”

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