Chapter 3

“Yes, ma’am.”

“I’d like to see you off tomorrow.”

“I plan to leave early.”

“Then I’ll be up early.”

“I won’t leave until you bid me farewell,” Leo promised, bending to kiss her cheek.

Celeste turned to her lady-in-waiting. “Make sure it’s known that I’m not to be disturbed.” With that final declaration, she took her leave of Leo and ducked into her chambers.

“Excuse me, your highness?”

Leo turned on his heel. “Yes?”

The servant bent low at the waist. “There are still several young ladies waiting for an audience, sir.”

“Are they all waiting to make me smile, Jax?”

“Yes, your highness.”

“Give them each a piece of gold for their troubles, and send them home. Go on.”