Page 208 of Beast and Remedy
CLANG.
I startle, veering back in shock and horror. Did I really almost cave and let myself get distracted by this man?
I almost blurt an apology but pause when he doesn’t seem to notice my reaction, too busy observing everyone halting.
An announcer clears his throat. “Presenting His Royal Majesty, King Beauvais of Torgem.”
My eyes dart to the main entrance clear of all guests. Save for Beau.
The air in my lungs runs dry and stale at my love, dressed in beige and gold. From his gleaming crown down to his boots, he is a masterpiece.
I carefully insert more space between Stefan and me, but he surprises me when he doesn’t let go and interlaces our fingers.
I peer down and immediately feel sick. The queasiness in my stomach ripples and expands, stretching upward and tightening my throat despite everyone lowering into a bow or curtsy.
“Welcome, family, loved ones, and friends. I am honored to have you all gathered here today on my name day.”
Beau’s rich voice pulls me and everyone up, their attention remaining on him. His smile is genuine but does not meet his eyes, and my heart sinks.
Beau promenades past guests, looking for someone. Maybe Leo and Christine?
“A tradition for name days in Torgem is to dance with someone of their choice for one song. And King Beauvais has chosen a close friend, Princess Vivienne of Belmur, to join him in his first dance for tonight’s celebrations,” the announcer says.
Panic surges through me as Beau’s eyes land on me. I inhale a sharp breath, squeezing Stefan when everyone twists, following their king’s line of sight.
Guests scrutinize me as they all clear a path for their monarch.
Stefan leans in and whispers, “It appears I’m not the only one who recognizes your true beauty.”
“We are friends,” I explain.
“Friends don’t look at each other the way you two do.” Stefan kisses my knuckles.
My eyes widen at the gesture, worrying it will be misinterpreted given everyone studying us carefully.
Stefan murmurs, “But I can help with that should you wish it.”
I hesitate, my gaze flicking between the man before me and the love of my life striding toward me. My heart thumps loudly in my ears, and my mind prickles.
Deny him. Let the prince distract you.
Yet each purposeful step Beau takes pieces together the broken shards of my soul. A soft smile pulls at my lips before I face Stefan.
“Thank you, but I can help myself.”
A muscle twitches along his jaw, a crooked smirk appearing. “As you wish.” He dips his chin as Beau reaches us.
“King Beauvais, an honor is it to be invited to celebrate with you on your name day,” Stefan says, breaking his stare as he guides my hand into Beau’s. “May you enjoy your next year of life.”
The Prince of Northtry turns. “An honor as always to be around you, Princess.”
Beau’s grip on me tightens a fraction as I clear my throat. “And you as well, Stefan.”
Stefan bows. When he rises to his full height, he winks before stepping back with the other guests, clearing a space for the king’s first dance of the night.
46
A Love Song
