Page 40 of Shameless
The queen shrugged and said, “Waste of time teaching that, anyhow. It’s better if more women have your financial skills.”
My heart lifted. She’s read my resume. I nodded and said, “Thank you, ma’am… Your Highness.”
She turned her attention to Michael and said, “You chose a proper bride, Barkley.”
I blinked but held my tongue.
He held his head higher and said, “I think so, Your Majesty.”
My heart beat quickly. Two minutes later, we were heading back to the car, and my stomach grumbled. I was starving.
Once we were out of the palace and riding again, I asked, “Why did she call you Barkley?”
As the driver opened our door, Michael said, “It’s my honorary title. You’re now the Marchioness Barkley.”
I had fewer butterflies but still shook my head. “I don’t think I have it in me to answer to that.”
He shrugged. “Only use it if you want people to take notice.”
Our gazes met, and I felt like he knew me. I smiled. “Well, now, that does sound like it matches my personality.”
The streets were not the same we’d taken earlier.
As we crossed a bridge, I asked, “Where are we going?”
“We’ll do a drive-by of the estate, and then I’ll take you to my house for a tour.”
So the hotel had been just for prepping. I didn’t care. I trusted Michael.
“Just driving by?” I asked.
He sat up. “I figure you need the lay of the land before we make our grand entrance tomorrow.”
I took his hand and smiled. “You almost make it sound like we’re going in as criminals.”
“That’s not my intent. I just want you comfortable.”
I was overdressed for walking around a house, but I cupped his face. “Relax. I got you. Nothing your family can do will stop us now.”
He kissed my palm. “You’re the first woman I’ve ever brought home.”
My heart beat faster as I wished he would touch me. My nipples hardened, but I took a deep breath and joked, “Believe me, I’m not impressed since you prefer to slouch on other people’s couches.”
His mouth opened like he was offended. “And transform my money from billions to trillions.”
I shook my head. “Which you did mostly while sitting your underwear.”
“Boxer briefs, and you like them.”
We drove onto an estate that really reminded me a bit of Pemberley, complete with a fountain and small lake on one side of the long driveway. The grounds were extensive, and London was completely blocked by the trees and fence. I sighed but then realized Michael’s gaze was still warming me up.
“I did like the black pair as it made you look a little more rough,” I said.
We drove across the huge estate and, once we passed the gates, headed to a smaller but definitely posh, gorgeous house.
When the limo stopped, Michael waved for me to join him. “Come.”
I followed him out.
