Recently docked after a voyage abroad, Emmett wants only to find a warm bed and good food, for himself and the cabin boy he's taken into his care. Those plans are impeded, however, by an altercation in the streets -- with a man he realizes too late is England's heir to the throne, Prince Andrewe.<br><br>When the encounter unexpectedly leads to a position in the royal household attending the prince, Emmett is not certain what to think. On one hand, it's a reliable income and ensures the safety of his charge. On the other, it's neither the life Emmett knows, nor an environment that he's comfortable in. Left to learn his lessons the hard way, Emmett spends his days contending with a spoiled, infuriating prince who leaves him in a constant tangle of emotions.<br><br>Then he begins to hear whispers of treason and must make a choice: defend Prince Andrewe or betray him.

Honour

He didn’t mean to startle the two men who sat beneath the budding fruit trees. Nor did he mean to see the quick retreat of the paper that was yanked from between them and shoved into the breast of a jacket.


“Good afternoon,” the first said, nodding to the second who rose and strode away quickly.


“It is indeed,” Emmett agreed. “Almost doesn’t quite seem to be England, does it?”


The man pursed his lips, stood, and walked forward. “Emmett, isn’t it?” He extended a hand that Emmett found himself hesitant to take. “Prince Andrewe’s First Gentleman, yes?”


Emmett nodded, gave in to the pressure, and shook hands. “Thomas,” the man provided, bowing his head. “Forgive my intrusion but I had business with Franklyn.”


Emmett smiled without feeling. “Your intrusions and your business are none of my concern.”


“No?” Thomas lifted an eyebrow and cocked his head. “See, that is an illusion that I fear you do not believe, Emmett.”


Chapter 16