RESERVED FOR SOMEONE ELSE

I waited with bated breath as I watched the two men square off. To the outside onlookers, the prince and the guard did not display threatening stances; but the three of us alone understood that Andre was telling Luca to back off.

After what seems like an eternity, I felt Luca's hand let go of my arm, and he bowed. "Of course, Your Highness," he said politely.

"Thank you, Captain," Andre responded, smiling for the benefit of the people watching us.

I exhaled with relief, but at the same time, I was upset at myself because I felt a sense of longing for the man behind my betrothed.

Andre turned to me and offered his arm. "Shall we?"

"Yes, thank you," I mumbled, taking his arm.