Page 65 of Unmasked

I barely looked at the king as I turned to one of my men from The Order.

“I feel like it’s been forever since we’ve seen each other. Although…” I smiled, narrowing my eyes at him playfully. “If I want to be honest, I’m afraid the last we met, I wasn’t really seeing much, was I? It’s a pleasure to officially meet you, My Lord.”

Lord Summerlyn’s laugh was genuine and hearty. “I feel rather embarrassed, Your Grace. I was pleased to hear you would join us. Lovely place you have here.”

“Thank you. I haven’t had the chance to really do a tour, but I hope to do that after the hunt.”

King Lawrence’s head cocked to the side. “I don’t understand. How did you meet him but not see him?”

Slowly, I brought my gaze over to him. “Because I was blindfolded, Your Majesty.” I paused, turning more to face him. “Lord Summerlyn happened to be in attendance when my Theodore surprised me with a very romantic dinner. Not planned, of course, which is why we didn’t get to officially meet. I believe you were heading out when we were heading in?”

“That’s correct. It’s a shame we didn’t get to meet then.”

“I’ll talk to Theodore. We’ll make plans for the future.”

“I would love that.”

“Me too.”

The king shifted. “Have you eaten breakfast? You’re still looking a little pale. How are you feeling?”

My lips parted. “I’m feeling great. Back to normal.”

“Are you sure?” He turned to Lord Summerlyn. “Does she look a little pale to you?”

Brown eyes came to me, and he looked between me and the king. “I think it’s the contrast of the dark colors she’s wearing, Your Majesty.” More his head tilted. “Very striking, though. The quality is fabulous. My daughter, Melly, rides. She would love something like this.”

“Blackwood Bridle. I’ll send over the information when I return home.”

“Would you? Her birthday is coming up. She would love that. Thank you, Your Grace. I’ve been worried sick that I wouldn’t find something worthy enough of such a big day.”

“I’m so glad that I could help out. If you have any questions, reach out any time.”

“I will, thank you.”

“You’re very welcome.” I took him in and glanced at the king. “Please excuse me. I’m going to grab something quick to eat before I head outside.”

“Quick?” King Lawrence shifted, stepping in closer. “I must insist⁠—”

“Your Majesty,” my lips parted as I let a shocked expression take over. The king’s eyes scanned my face, confused. “I completely forgot. How very rude of me. Please, come.” My hand wrapped around his arm, and I more pulled him at a fast pace than let him lead me. When we got to the buffet, his confusion grew even more.

I grabbed a banana and led him to the mini fridge to grab a yogurt.

“What did you forget?”

“…What?”

Anger flashed as I let go of him. “You said you forgot something. That it was rude.”

I opened the banana, taking a bite. My lips twisted, and I shrugged.

“I get horrible brain fog lately. I already forgot what I forgot. But look, I’m eating.”

I smiled, taking another bite. He didn’t look amused.

“You can be rather odd at times.”

“Odd, yes. I am that.”