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

“Andrewe,” his father cautioned. “Do not make me take your mother’s direction.”


“But Mother,” Andrewe pleaded. “You heard him! I heard him! He chooses death? Death?” Andrewe’s voice peaked and squeaked the word. He stuck out his arm, pointing at Emmett, all but shrieking. “The fool is stupid enough to do it! I should know!”


“It is his choice to make—” King Richard began.


“It is a stupid choice!” Andrewe hissed. He dropped to his knees in front of Emmett with wide eyes. “Why?”


Emmett smiled. Andrewe radiated emotion, sweat beaded on his upper lip and Emmett could think of nothing sweeter than how that dew would taste. “Because the thought of life without you, Andrewe, to never see you or touch you or taste you again, is no life I would choose. Better the strike be quick and clean than the rest of my years spent in anguish.”


Chapter 44