Page 14 of Royal Player
“Yes. She’s the one who suggested you.”
She exhales sharply. “I’m glad to hear it, ma’am. This is such a surprise. When do we leave? Do you need assistance packing?”
“I’m all set. We leave in an hour, and we’ll be gone for three nights, so pack for yourself accordingly. Are you excited? Because I am.”
She smiles for the first time. “I’m very excited.”
“Excellent! Now before you pack, you just need to meet my usual maid, who acts as chaperone, and assure her you’ll be a good substitute.” I gesture for her to follow me.
“Will she be upset that I’m taking her place, ma’am?” she asks as we step out into the hallway. “I don’t want to step on any toes, and it does sound like a wonderful trip.”
“Don’t worry. She’s down with a cold and not nearly as intimidating when she’s ill.”
A few minutes later, I proudly present Lina the chaperone to Marge.
“Come here, girl,” Marge orders.
Lina meekly moves forward, standing next to the bed.
“Not too close,” I call. “We don’t want you to catch cold, pass it to me, and then I pass it to Anna and the baby.”
Marge shoos her back with irritated flicks of her hand as if it were Lina’s idea to get close. “Donotlet Princess Mary out of your sight. You must accompany her at all times. That is your job. She must never be alone with a man. If you fail at your mission, the wrath of the kingdom of Beaumont will come down on you.”
Lina shoots me a terrified look, her eyes huge.
“Do you understand?” Marge demands.
Lina turns back to her and nods.
Marge coughs and goes on hoarsely, “I want a full report on the princess when you return.”
“Yes, ma’am,” Lina says quietly.
Marge grunts. “Off with you. Polly, do not make me regret this.”
“I never would.” I blow her a kiss. “Rest up. I expect you better when I return.”
I incline my head to Lina, and she hurries to my side. I wait until we’re a distance from the room before saying, “I will tell you what to report. Our deal still stands.”
“What about the wrath of the kingdom of Beaumont, Your Highness?” she whispers.
I draw myself to my full height and respond with the authority of my station. “I will be queen soon. There will be no wrath.”
Her gaze shifts to the side. “Yes, ma’am.”
I keep my tone light because I can tell she’s worried. “The only wrath will be from me if you don’t enjoy yourself.”
She laughs a little nervously.
I grin. This is going to be awesome.
Chapter Five
Polly
Alice grabs my arm as our limo pulls up to the Casino de Monte-Carlo. “Oh! I’m nerding out! I have to take pictures before we go in. This place is historic, dating back to eighteen sixty-three. I read online it was an example of Belle Époque architecture, designed by the same guy who did the Paris Opera House! It’s so much more breathtaking in person!”
“Absolutely take pictures,” I say, smiling at her enthusiasm.
