Page 38 of The Promised Prince
“Not at all. Like I said, it’s all for you.”
“In that case, I’ll make sure I enjoy every bite.” She glanced pointedly at Trev before leaning her shoulder into Drake’s, playfully nudging him.
Trev wanted to punch his best friend, even though Renna was the one doing the flirting. Drake must have sensed it too, because after a quick look at Trev, he turned to Seran seated across the table from him. “So, Princess Seran, how do you like Albion so far?”
The princess smiled perfectly. “Your country is beautiful. The mountains we saw along our journey were absolutely stunning. We have nothing like them in New Hope. And I am impressed with your palace. There are many...” She hesitated for a moment. “There are many...upgradescompared to New Hope. We don’t have marble flooring or elaborate decorations.” She paused and looked at Trev. “But I’m sure the prince can tell me all about the palace and the upgrades. I look forward to getting to know him and the royal family.”
Trev gave a polite, albeit awkward smile in response.
King Carver interjected. “Yes, we have a few advancements in Albion. Nothing that the Council needs to concern themselves with, and certainly nothing to trouble yourself over, Princess Seran. We want you to feel comfortable here while we work through the final details of the marriage alliance. If there is anything you need, please don’t hesitate to let us know. And I’m sure Ezra will be delighted to entertain you.”
Renna looked up from her soup at this and chimed in, her smile as sweet as an angel. “How gracious of Prince Ezra.”
The queen nodded, obviously pleased by her daughter’s seemingly kind comment. But Trev wasn’t fooled. He heard the thinly veiled sarcasm behind her words.
Trev smiled back at Renna, answering through his teeth, “Of course.” Then he turned to Seran. “I’m looking forward to getting to know you as well, Princess. I haven’t been able to think of anything else these last few weeks.”
Renna’s spoon paused midair as she took in his words, but she only faltered a moment before shoving the soup into her mouth.
“I suppose our advisors will convene first thing tomorrow?” Queen Mariele asked.
“Yes, I see no reason to delay,” King Carver agreed.
The servants came to retrieve the bowls of soup so they could serve the next course. Renna was still sipping hers as a young girl reached between her and Drake to clear it.
“Oh, I’m not quite done!” Renna awkwardly reached for the bowl as the girl lifted it onto her tray. She managed to dip her spoon in for one last bite and carry it to her mouth, but not before a large drop fell onto Drake’s shoulder. Everyone around the table held their breath at the spectacle.
A sardonic laugh escaped from Seran’s blonde friend. Trev couldn’t remember her name. Jen-something?
“I’m so sorry!” Renna choked through her mouthful of strawberry bisque. She grabbed the napkin in her lap with her free hand, her cheeks flushed with embarrassment, and awkwardly fumbled to wipe the stain from Drake’s shoulder.
Drake batted her napkin away good-naturedly and used his own napkin to dab the stain. “Leave it. This actually couldn’t have worked out better.” Renna looked mortified and confused, as he continued, “You see, I love the smell of strawberries. For the rest of the night, the smell of this soup will stay with me. I can literally turn my head and smell strawberries.” Drake’s face remained completely serious. “In fact, people will wonder why I smell so good.”
Another reason to kill Drake.The list was getting long.
Renna let out a small laugh and then looked to the king to recover. “Forgive me, Your Majesty. You have an excellent chef here.”
King Carver’s brow furrowed in what could only be disgust.
The young servant girl still hovered over Renna’s shoulder, squirming uncomfortably.
“That will be all. Thank you,” Renna said when she recovered enough from her own embarrassment.
“My lady, I need your spoon,” the girl replied in a quiet voice.
“Yes! Of course!” Reaching up, she handed the girl the spoon, and the servant quickly scurried away. Trev noticed Renna’s cheeks burning again.
“Renna, have a care for manners, please.” Queen Mariele laughed nervously. “I shouldn’t have to remind you who we are dining with.” She picked up her glass and raised it toward King Carver before lifting it to her lips.
Renna’s embarrassment seemed to turn to irritation. With a cautious glance at Trev first, she leaned over and whispered to her mother loud enough for Trev to hear. “Don’t worry, Mother. It’s not likeI’mhere to marry the prince.”
Trev choked on his drink—sputtering out a series of coughs.
“Are you all right?” Seran put a concerned hand on his shoulder.
He cleared his throat. “Yes, I’m fine.”
King Carver spoke. “I heard you stopped a day at the border.” He looked at Queen Mariele. “Near the city of Vassel?” His question was an obvious attempt to appear engaging.
