Page 3 of Legal Attraction

Laughter diverted his attention from the immediate tables to what could only be a grand entrance. A group of tall, broad-shouldered men arrived together and every eye turned to them. And then Rand stood. Everyone laughed along with Nico Valdez, the King of Torren who walked into a mostly formal room with board shorts and a t-shirt. A slew of men followed him, some with suits, some looking like they’d just come in off their boats. And at the back of the group, Anders and Astra, both dressed in work attire.

He lifted a hand. Nico responded with a large smile.

And within moments Rand was surrounded. Wait staff scurried to add more plates and enlarge the table. Before Rand could take another drink, they had seats for all ten of the group who’d joined Rand. He was used to good service but he realized in that moment that these princes lived at a whole new level. Nico held out his hand. “Rand Macarthy? I’m Nico Valdez! Good to see you.”

“Your majesty, thank you for taking the time.”

He waved his hand. “I appreciate the formalities when they’re necessary, but call me Nico.”

“Then Rand it is. Thank you.”

Nico introduced two other men Rand had heard of, both princes. And then he smiled. Now these two you might know. Here is Astra Monroe and Anders Rossi. I believe part of the reason you’re here.”

The pair stepped forward. Rand nodded, smiling. “Your reputations proceed you.”

Astra laughed. She was a smaller blond, white teeth, gorgeous smile. And Anders was dark where she was light, tall, and looked like he spent time in a gym.

Rand sucked in his gut and stood taller. “I’m sure you’ll catch me up to speed a little later.”

Anders nodded. “Of course. I’ve got the paperwork ready to go.”

Nico clapped Rand on the back. “How does it feel to work with a man who will inherit his own country?”

Rand raised his eyebrows in Ander’s direction. “Will you?”

Anders gestured that they sit. “I will. Whether or not I keep it is another story.”

Nico shook his head and the good-natured manner in which everyone dealt with one another reminded Rand very much of cousins at a family reunion.

From Anders’ body language, it seemed like a topic better addressed later, if at all. It was definitely in the best interests of the law firm to know his inclinations towards becoming king of a Mediterranean country. But Rand had to assume the executive head partner committee was on top of things. He was secretly frustrated at the small amount of information they passed on to Rand. There was always something he was kept in the dark about. It was as if their firm had top secret clearance. He shrugged to himself. Maybe they did. He’d break in. He wanted in on the executive committee and it might take him some time, but he’d get there.

He lifted his menu. “What should I order?”

“Oh, don’t use that. We have our own requests for the chef. Let us order for you.” Nico lifted a hand, and a waiter showed up almost immediately at his side. Rand raised his eyebrows in respect. Astra nodded in his direction. “You’ll get used to it.”

He shook his head. “No,youwill. You live here. I’m going back to Virginia where I get a refill on my water if I’m lucky.”

She shrugged then turned to Anders. “Can you get my regular?”

Rand rolled his eyes and was about to comment, but Anders leaned closer to him. “This comes with a price. Just let it be.”

Surprised, he studied Anders’ face and then nodded before turning to Nico. “Surprise me.”

The king rubbed his hands together. “Wonderful.”

A new voice interrupted. “Can someone get me the Rueben swiss with raspberry?”

Several heads whipped around and about half the princes stood.

Rand joined them when he saw the source of the voice. A tall brunette with long wavy hair, slightly tanned skin and legs that stretched for days, approached with a confident smile.

“Now who’s this?” Rand asked under his breath to no one in particular, but Nico rested a hand on his shoulder. “Someone you may as well let go before you begin.”

“Oh?” He turned to study the king, but Nico looked away and waved to the newcomer. “Coral my darling. You’re just in time.”

“Am I?” Her gaze wandered over the table full of princes and Astra. It stopped momentarily on him. He held his breath like a teenager. And didn’t quite know how to bring a warm lazy smile to his face, or to even nod. But waited to see what she would do. Her eyebrow rose and then he seemed to wake from her spell. His smile was large and genuine if it looked anything like it felt. “I don’t believe we’ve met.” He called out over the tops of others.

She let her eyes wander over his face but then the waiter arrived with another chair for her which he placed at the other end of the table. She turned without another glance and joined that side of the table.

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