Page 75 of Matched with the Grumpy Secret Prince

Because today, I have one job—picking up my date.

Pulling up to Mia’s house, I take a steadying breath before stepping onto the porch.

I barely knock before the door swings open.

Mia stands there, arms crossed, her sharp gaze sweeping over me like she’s analyzing every inch. She’s also dressed and ready for the wedding.

This is the first time we’ve seen each other since I got back since my secret got out.

And I can tell she’s been waiting for this moment.

She leans against the doorway, smirking slightly. “Well, well. Look who finally decided to show his face.”

I let out a slow breath. “Mia.”

She tilts her head. “I always knew you weren’t just some average stranger.”

I exhale a quiet laugh. “You were right.”

Her smirk fades into something more serious. “I get why you didn’t tell anyone. Everyone has their reasons for keeping things private.” Her voice drops slightly, her expression firm. “But let me make one thing very clear—if you ever hurt my sister again, I’ll make sure you never step foot in Bardstown without regretting it.”

There’s no hesitation, no bluff in her words.

I hold her gaze, nodding once. “I don’t plan on hurting her.”

Mia searches my face for a second longer before stepping aside and ushering me in.

“Good,” she says.

The moment I step inside, everything else fades.

Because then—I see her.

Sophie stands at the top of the staircase, looking like something straight out of a dream.

She wears a deep navy-blue gown that hugs her waist before flowing in elegant, silken waves. The fabric shimmers subtly under the soft morning light, catching every movement as she descends the stairs.

Her hair is styled in soft curls, cascading over one shoulder, and her makeup is subtle but breathtaking—warm, golden tones highlight the depth of her eyes, the delicate flush of her cheeks, and the soft pink of her lips.

She is, without a doubt, the most beautiful woman I’ve ever seen.

And I can’t look away.

She reaches the last step, and we just stand there for a second.

I swallow hard, clearing my throat. “You look…” I shake my head slightly, exhaling. “You look incredible.”

A soft pink flush creeps up her neck, but she holds her chin high, offering a small, knowing smile. “You clean up pretty well yourself, Your Highness.”

I huff a quiet laugh, shaking my head. “That nickname’s not going away anytime soon, is it?”

Mia snorts. “Oh, definitely not.”

Sophie smiles, tilting her head slightly. “Are you ready?”

I offer her my arm. “Always.”

And just like that, we step out together.

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