Page 23 of Royally Redeemed
“We've exiled a pretty young thing like you to Wales. Miss Mills, it is the least we can do.”
I blushed.
“Well, the protective not-ever-father in me makes me feel I should extend and offer to you?—”
“Oh, God, no. You're such a sweetheart, John. But, no. That's just you being British.”
He sniggered. “No. It's because I want someone to entertain my mother-in-law. She'd needle you, not us.”
“I see how it is!”
“No family?”
“My father is gone,” I said. “My mom and I aren't close. And I don't have time to get home to the States either way.”
“Only child?”
I nodded. “Lemme guess. Your partner is an only?”
“Yes, Miss Mills. You are very perceptive.”
“I know one when I see it. The people pleasing but also conflict avoidant.”
“But would you change it?”
“I was perpetually lonely as a child,” I answered. “I had no cousins. I was very isolated. It's why if I ever marry, I plan on having at least two. I know some people hate their siblings, but I will just hope for the best. I was so lonely.”
I wondered if Prince Duncan could relate. And, as if his ears were burning, he looked over with an unsettling gaze. I couldn't tell what that expression was, but I knew it wasn't adoration. He was cursing me.
“Let's make up an excuse to get out of here,” I said. “I will grant him mercy.”
“Yes, Miss Mills. We will be out in a moment. I will have them bring the car round.”
15
GIFT FOR A STRANGER
DUNCAN
Ispent the morning gift shopping for a stranger before going to my shift at Valley. John was keen to mention that Miss Mills had nowhere to go for Christmas and that it might be nice to get her a little something. Of course, I did notknowMiss Mills in the least bit. Choosing a gift for a girl who was barely more than an acquaintance but badly wanted to impress was a certain kind of pain I hadn't known since uni.
When I dated women like Vanessa, I knew their mates. I could openTatleron my computer and learn about them. Miss Mills was a bloody enigma—one I was keen to decode. I was so cross with her the night before even if I knew she did it for my benefit. I had done well. The press moved onto puff pieces. Showing up with a plate of biscuits absolved one of all sins. Who knew?
“You look pensive,” Flaherty, another officer, noted.
We were on break. I ate my second pack of crisps that day.
“I am trying to decide which gift I give this girl. I mean to be kind. I want to make her realize I'm not awanker. Unfortunately, I don't know her that well apart from professionally.”
“So what are your options?”
“I bought three things. I only intend to give her one.”
“Why not all three?”
“All three makes me look dodgy.”
“Dodgy? For being generous? Women eat that up!”
