Page 76 of The Dark Duke's Cinderella
Anna couldn’t help but laugh, taking his hand discreetly. “I did try and warn you. At least you’re here now, safe and sound.”
“And quite a few liras lighter, thanks to George.” Philip sighed as he squeezed her hand, before releasing it. He looked over at his sister. “How is Elinor keeping you company?”
“Exceptionally well. I miss my friends in France, but…”
“What is it?”
“Being here with them”—Anna nodded in their direction—“it makes me long for home. It’s easy to forget England when we’re in a room full of Parisians, or with other expatriates. But the King wishes you to remain at his side—could you not be spared?”
“He won’t shackle me to his throne and forbid me from returning home if I asked. The agreement was for me to stay a year at least, and I have served the two crowns faithfully since.” Philip had a familiar look in his eyes, deep in thought. “I have grown into the position, but my duty to you comes first. We could begin arranging our return to England as soon as we return to Paris.”
“You wouldn’t mind?”
“For you, I would go anywhere in the world.” He took her hand again and kissed her knuckles, lingering for a moment on Graham’s ring. “Our family comes first. Before any wars, kings, or Italian cab drivers…”
“Or meddling singers,” Anna added.
“Or dubious viscounts.”
“Or dukes who don’t know what’s good for them.”
“Oh, yes.” Another kiss. “Aren’t they just the worst?”
The End?
