Once Upon a King
Holly Jacobs
Prince Antonio Michael Paul Mickovich Dillonetti blew in and out of our ibeloved Perry Square at record speed (three months ago. We all thought he'd come to visit his sweet sister, Parker, but instead he was spotted strolling arm in arm with her best gal pal, Cara Phillips.The quiet bookstore owner might keep it all bottled up but the expressions on both their faces said it all! Well, now the kismet couple is about to be reunited in the future (king's homeland. And, according to our source, Cara has some "news" that sure explains the king-to-be's swift departure.
Youll have to admit that the night we met neither of us was particularly cautious.
Some emotion the prince couldnt quite identify passed over Caras face as she nodded.
I guess you could say that.
About that night, Id like to
Sorry, Michael. No time to reminisce. Ive got to plan these weddings and therere only a few weeks left.
Were going to have to talk.
I dont see why. It was a passing fling. A one-night stand. Theres nothing to talk about or analyze. It was over almost before it started. Now, if you dont mind, Id like to freshen up before my next meeting.
This time Michael took the hint.
Cara looked pale and a bit shaky and he didnt want to upset her further.
Fine, Ill let it go for now. But youre here at the palace for these next few weeks, cara mia. You wont be able to run from me forever.
Dear Reader,
To me, September is the cruelest month. One minute it feels like just another glorious summer day. And then almost overnight the days become shorter and life just hits. Its no different for this months heroes and heroines. Because they all get their own very special September moment when they discover a secret that will change their lives forever!
Judy Christenberry once again heads up this month with The Texans Tiny Dilemma (#1782)the next installment in her LONE STAR BRIDES miniseries. A handsome accountant must suddenly figure out how to factor love into the equation when a one-night stand results in twins. Seth Bryant gets his wake-up call when a very pregnant princess shows up on his doorstep in Prince Baby (#1783), which continues Susan Meiers BRYANT BABY BONANZA. Jill Limber assures us that The Sheriff Wins a Wife (#1784) in the continuing BLOSSOM COUNTY FAIR continuity, but how will this lawman react to the news that hes still married to a woman who left town eight years ago! Holly Jacobs rounds out the month with her next PERRY SQUARE: THE ROYAL INVASION! title. In Once Upon a King (#1785), baby seems to come before love and marriage for a future king.
And be sure to watch for more great romances next month when bestselling author Myrna Mackenzie launches our new SHAKESPEARE IN LOVE miniseries.
Happy reading,
Ann Leslie Tuttle
Associate Senior Editor
Once Upon a King
Holly Jacobs
www.millsandboon.co.uk (http://www.millsandboon.co.uk)
This ones for Haley. I hope youll always find the magic in books!
Youre such an amazing young woman!
For Dr. Baxter and Carolyn Fleartheres no Philharmonic
or bowling here, but still, thanks for the inspiration!
And for Peterhope youve enjoyed the series!
Finally, for Dort. You had the biggest heart and
such a gift for blarney. We all miss you every day.
Books by Holly Jacobs
Silhouette Romance
* (#litres_trial_promo)Do You Hear What I Hear? #1557
* (#litres_trial_promo)A Day Late and a Bride Short #1653
* (#litres_trial_promo)Dad Today, Groom Tomorrow #1683
* (#litres_trial_promo)Be My Baby #1733
(#litres_trial_promo)Once Upon a Princess #1768
(#litres_trial_promo)Once Upon a Prince #1777
(#litres_trial_promo)Once Upon a King #1785
HOLLY JACOBS
cant remember a time when she didnt readand read a lot. Writing her own stories just seemed a natural outgrowth of that love. Reading, writing, chauffeuring kids to and from activities makes for a busy life. But its one she wouldnt trade for any other.
Holly lives in Erie, Pennsylvania, with her husband, four children and a 180-pound Old English mastiff. In her spare time, Holly loves hearing from her fans. You can write to her at P.O. Box 11102, Erie, PA 16514-1102 or visit her Web site at www.HollyJacobs.com (http://www.HollyJacobs.com).
Dear Reader,
When I brought royalty to Perry Square and planned a trilogy, I knew I wanted Caras story to be last. Of the three friends who make up PERRY SQUARE: THE ROYAL INVASION!, Caras the true center of the trio. And as a tried-and-true bookworm, shes a woman after my own heart. She believes in love and has cheered on Parker and Shey in Once Upon a Princess and Once Upon a Prince. Now its her turn to take a journey of the heart as she leaves Perry Square to travel to Eliason to plan Parker and Sheys secret double wedding. There she meets her own Prince Charming. Well, not exactly meets. You see, one night, three months ago she found, then lost, the man of her dreams. But Cara never imagined her mysterious Prince Charming was in fact a prince!
Perry Squares going on the roadgoing international! I hope you enjoy the trip and this final book in my Perry Square royalty trilogy!
Enjoy!
Holly
Contents
Prologue (#u407ca821-795f-5f52-9463-b46a3c2d4550)
Chapter One (#u5c1dea58-e298-5f06-a9a1-ac91f23a019b)
Chapter Two (#u015bf44c-b909-5ee8-9282-fe62ffa82d4a)
Chapter Three (#u03d01958-dfbf-5ba9-99cd-7e1641613ed2)
Chapter Four (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Five (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Six (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Seven (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Eight (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Nine (#litres_trial_promo)
Chapter Ten (#litres_trial_promo)
Epilogue (#litres_trial_promo)
Prologue
Cara Phillips looked out the window of the plane as it made its approach to Eliason, a small European country that most of the world overlooked.
But to Cara, Eliason was magical.
A real-life kingdom.
For a minute she wondered what it would be like to know an entire land was yoursyour responsibility, handed down generation after generation. To protect, to guide, to cherish.
Caras best friend, Parker Dillon, had been born here. Parker was a princess. Princess Marie Anna Parker Mickovich Dillonetti of Eliason.
But Parker had traded away her legacy and chased after her dreamsdreams that had led her to Perry Square in Erie, Pennsylvania, and to Jace ODonnell, the man she was going to marry in just a month.
Four short weeks.
Their friend Shey Carlson and her fianc, Tanner Ericson, were going to be married as well.
A double ceremony.
Caras romantic heart gave a small twist.
Truly, Parker and Sheys romances were more than sigh-worthy.
Shey hadnt been looking for love. Especially not with a prince. Prince Eduardo Matthew Tanner Ericson of Amar had come to Erie to claim his brideParker. But instead hed claimed Sheys heart.
Shey was rock hard on the outside, but that was just a veneer. On the inside she was caring, concerned and so deserved having a prince.
Cara sighed again. It was all so wonderful.
Her two best friends had found their other halves, men whom they loved and were willing to commit their lives to.
Once upon a time, Cara had thought shed find a similar path.
For one brief moment three months ago, she thought she had.
Mike King.
Hed appeared in her life, bringing with him a whirlwind of emotion and hopehope that shed found what shed been looking for. But hed disappeared, leaving behind a longing for what-might-have-been.
Shed had just one night, one special night when shed believed all her fantasies could come true. On that night shed believed in love at first sight and happily-ever-after.
Then it was morning and Mike was gone. In the light of day, Cara had awoken to the reality with a thud.
She and Mike had been just a hazy dream, a misty longing she had thought could grow into something solid. But, like a mist, the morning sun had burned her dream of him away. All she had left was a memory of the dark-haired man whose deep blue eyes had seemed to touch her soul, and the knowledge shed deceived herself into thinking hed felt a connection, too.
But hed left her something tangible. Something solid and oh-so-real.
The plane touched down and Cara allowed herself one last wistful sigh.
She was going to see to it that Parker and Shey and their grooms had the most perfect fairy-tale wedding ever.
Theyd have someone to love forever.
And in the end, so would Cara.
Not Mike King. He had come and gone. No, she was going to have a real someone.
She was going to have Mikes baby.
One
Michael, stop your pacing. You look like a nervous bride on her wedding night rather than a commanding prince of the land.
Try as he might, Michael couldnt help but smile. A bride, Marstel? You couldnt at least have said bridegroom?
A figure of speech, Marstel Marriott said with a smile.
Michael gave his childhood friend a lot more latitude than most employees had. As Michaels personal assistant and right-hand man, Marstel was privy to many things, but as a lifelong friend, he knew even more.
All joking aside, Marstel suddenly looked serious. Just take a deep breath and settle down.
Settle down? Michael raked his fingers through his dark hair in utter frustration.
Settle down? he repeated. I shouldnt be here playing host to my sisters friend. I shouldnt be playing surrogate wedding planner. His sister, Parker, was getting married soon and was sending her friend ahead to help finalize the plans. I should be back in Erie, looking for her.
Her.
He didnt even know her name.
Cara mia, hed called her.
He remembered the way shed smiled when hed murmured the endearment in her ear the first time.
Cara mia.
Thats how he thought of her.
A chance meeting, a brief trystshed altered the very fabric of his life.
I should be out there looking for her, instead of chauffeuring around this Cara.
Just saying the womans name grated on him, multiplying his level of frustration.
A Cara, but not his cara mia.
Your soon-to-be brother-in-law has been looking for your mystery woman, but without a name Marstel let the rest of the sentence trail off.
He didnt need to finish it.
Michael understood that the odds were stacked against him. That night, shed simply been cara mia. Hed planned to find out her real name in the light of day, but hadnt wanted to ruin the spell of that night. But in the morning she was gone. And without a name his chances of finding her were slim.
Erie, Pennsylvania, wasnt a huge city, but finding one unnamed woman in a city of one hundred thousand people was like looking for a needle in a haystack.
More than one hundred thousand people.
Michael had looked up the number online.
He was a firm believer in facing the odds, in looking obstacles square in the face103,717 according to the last census figures.
And that didnt even take into account the outlying communities. Hed researched that as well. Mill-creek, North East, Wesleyville, Harborcreek, Girard, Fairviewshe could be in any one of those townships that surrounded Erie.
Somewhere among all those people was his cara mia.
As soon as the double wedding was over, he was going back to Erie and find her himself, even if he knew it would be like looking for that proverbial needle in the haystack.
Michael knew in his gut that, despite the odds, their one night together couldnt be the end of it. That it wasnt all they would ever have.
Hed known the minute hed seen her that she was it for him. At that first combustible meeting, hed been too consumed by feelings to ask the questions that had needed asking. And once hed had rational thinking return, she was already gone.
Hed let her slip from his fingers. And because he was on a diplomatic mission, hed had only a few hours to search for her. A search that had proved futile.
As soon as hed taken care of this last duty, he was going back, and he wouldnt leave Erie, Pennsylvania, until hed found her.
Michael wasnt some hopeless romantic who fell in love at the drop of a hat. But the moment he bumped into her on the street hed known in his gut that she was it. She was the one.
His father had found his mother in such a lightning-strike mannerfound her in Erie as well, as a matter of fact. And his sister Parker had done the same when shed fallen for the man their father had hired to find out why she wouldnt come home. Jace ODonnell, a private detective.
Love at first sight.
Hed doubted it could happen. He hadnt been able to believe in that type of love even though he was the product of such a union. Michael was the type of man who needed more than someone elses say-so for it to be true.
So he hadnt believeduntil it had happened to him.
And every day he delayed finding her was one day too many.
One more month and hed go after her. As soon as hed honored his obligation to his family, to his sister, Parker, he was going back to Erie and he wouldnt come home without his cara mia.
Theyre here, Marstel announced.
The plane drew closer to the runway and touched down lightly.
Most people had to wait at luggage claim to greet the travelers. So much in the world had changed in recent years, even here in Eliason. There were new rules and restrictions designed to make air travel safer. But there were a few perks to being a prince.
Very few.
Michael and Marstel stood in the security doorway and watched as the passengers began to deplane.
Families.
Businessmen and women.
About a dozen people had come out of the doorway when he saw her.
He sucked in his breath, sure he was hallucinating.
Michael, are you all right? Marstel asked, concern in his voice.
Her, he murmured, studying the woman. Its her. Cara mia.
Your mystery woman?
Three months ago, on his trip to Perry Square, Michael was supposed to have convinced his sister to come home. He could have told his father that there was no convincing Parker of anything when her mind was made up.
When hed gotten to Erie, hed found it wasnt just her mind that was made up, but her heart was as well. Hed seen how shed looked when she spoke of Jace ODonnell and hed known that even though she might come home to visit, Parkers future was no longer in Eliason.
Hed had to leave before hed met her friends. One friend, Shey Carlson, was marrying Tanner Ericson, the prince of neighboring Amar.
And then there was Parkers other friend, Cara Phillips.
Cara who was coming to arrange a small, private wedding ceremony for her two friends. A celebration for just family and those closest to both couples. Later there would be a more public celebration for both couples, but in one month, theyd have a secret, double ceremony.
Cara Phillips was here to help plan it.
Parker and Shey wouldnt arrive until the last minute, hoping to keep the paparazzi off the scent of what would eventually be a very big story.
It all made sense.
Hed met his mystery woman, his cara mia, in the park across from the shops his sister owned with her two friends. Parkers friend Cara would have been in that area frequently.
And the way his mystery woman had laughed when hed called her cara mia.
Cara Phillips.
Hed known her name without knowing hed known it. Just another indication that he was rightthat this woman was his destiny.
And now shed come to him.
What more proof did he need?
Michael? Marstel asked, concern still filling his voice.
Its fine. Everythings fine now, he assured his friend.
Everything was fine.
He didnt have to find his cara mia.
Shed found him.
Cara got off the plane and breathed deeply. Parker used to say no place smelled quite the same as Eliason.
Maybe she was right. But at the moment, all Cara could smell was the planes fuel. It made her stomach move a bit south of where it belonged.
She forced herself to ignore the feeling. She didnt have time to be ill. She was about to meet Parkers familyto meet royalty.
She shouldnt be nervous. After all, Parker was royal. Tanner was royal. And with their marriages, even Jace and Shey would be royal.
Through her years of friendship with Parker, Cara had learned that royalty wasnt always all it was cracked up to be. As a teen, Parker had been tabloid fodder, hounded and exploited. But through all of it, shed had the support of her parents. Two people who put their family before their royal duties. And despite wishing their daughter was coming home to stay, they put her happiness first as well.
Theyd always sounded wonderful to Cara, which was why she refused to be nervous about meeting Parkers very royal family and staying in an honest-to-goodness castle. Parker had shown her pictures, and Cara had memorized them. Not really a moat-and-turret sort of castle. It looked more like a huge, gigantic mansion. Gray stone, ornate gardens and one small tower off the west wing.
Parker said shed never visited all the rooms.
Cara wondered if she could manage it during her month-long visit.
Probably not. She had her work cut out for her. She was here to be a voice, to see to it the double wedding didnt become a sideshow, that it remained the small intimate ceremony her two best friends envisioned.
She was a woman on a mission. There was no time for exploring. And there was certainly no room to be nervous, she warned the butterflies in her stomach. After all, if she wanted to be nervous about something, she had bigger worries ahead of her.
She walked off the ramp and scanned the area, looking for someone who looked like they were looking for someone they didnt know. She wasnt sure who was picking her up. Parker just said someone would meet her.
She hefted her carry-on over her shoulder and started following the crowd.
Cara mia, came a voice from behind her.
Cara stopped in her tracks and stood stone-still. She felt a jolt pulse through her body, weakening her knees. All the oxygen whooshed from her lungs.
Could someone asphyxiate from surprise?
No, this was more than surprise.
Shock.
Could she asphyxiate from shock?
She didnt want to look, couldnt stand to be disappointed, but somehow she managed to turn, to see for herself.
Mike.
Mike King in Eliason?
You? she said, her voice soft because, after all, it was hard to speak when you had no air in your body.
Me, he said with a huge smile.
It almost looked as if the fink was happy to see her.
I found you, he said.
The sense of hope disappeared in an instant as Cara remembered what Mike King had done.
The jerk.
The creep.
The love-em-and-leave-em cad.
Cara knew she was a quiet woman, reserved and shy. But she forgot for a second as she publicly snubbed the smiling Lothario.
Leave me alone, she said and then turned on her heels and marched away.
She wasnt sure where she was going, but it didnt matter. She just wanted to get away from Mike King, the man whod shown her one amazing night of passion.
Mike King, the father of her baby.
Cara, where are you going? he asked, obviously ignoring her command.
Maybe she hadnt been clear. She whirled around and faced him.
Where I go is none of your concern. I want you to forget you ever met me, because believe me, I forgot you the morning I woke up alone in that hotel room.
Okay, so that was a lie.
Not just some little white lie.
A whopper of a lie.
But for the first time in her life, Cara didnt feel guilty about avoiding the truth. After all, she was crossing her fingers as she said the words, and the creep deserved to think he was so easily forgotten.
Shed never tell him that not a day went by that she didnt think of him. Not a night went by that she didnt dream of him.
I cant forget, he said.
She kept walking.
Go away or Im going to call security. Theyll arrest you for sure. Im a guest of this country and I have friends in high places.
Okay, so Parkers parents werent really friends, but she imagined theyd help protect her from a lunatic ex-lover.
Tell me where youre going, Michael ordered, still walking by her side. His legs were much longer than hers, so she had to take about a step and a half to every one of his long, loping strides.
None of your business, she said, trying to lengthen her own step, not wanting to be at a disadvantage. Leave me alone, you cad.
Cad? he said, his smile quirking sort of sideways with amusement.
You gigolo.
Gigolo? He chuckled.
That soft, throaty laughter had haunted her dreams for three months.
He placed a hand on her shoulder, as if to slow her down.
She shrugged free and tried to walk even faster. Stop that, and stop following me.
I cant stop following you. I was sent here to pick you up and take you to the castle, Cara Phillips.
You work for the king? she asked, feeling as if a lightbulb had gone off over her head. Thats why you were on Perry Square, in Erie. He sent you to try and make Parker go home, didnt he? Then you met me, figured you could have a bit of fun before you ran back to Eliason. You figured youd never see me again. Well, lets pretend it worked, that you never met me back on the square. You can take me to the castle, then get on with your duties and forget we ever met.
Im afraid I cant do that, cara mia.
The endearment whipped at her tenuous self-restraint. Dont call me that, she said, hoping he couldnt sense the emotion that was riding ever closer to the surface.
I cant do that either. You are my cara mia, my beloved, he said.
He reached out as if he were going to touch her again, but drew his hand back. Ive been looking for you.
Ha.
And I cant leave you alone because my father asked me to assist you in whatever way suits your needs.
Your father? she asked. A sudden sick pitch settled in her stomach as a glimmer of an idea struck her. An unsettling, horrible, the-fates-couldnt-do-it-to-her kind of idea.
Your father? she repeated.
My father, King Antonio Paul Capelli Mickovich Dillonetti of Eliason.
This time Cara didnt just feel weak-kneed, she actually sort of sagged.
Mike caught her elbow and steadied her.
An immediate awareness slammed through her system.
Whats your real name? she asked weakly, though she knew.
Im Antonio Michael Paul Mickovich Dillonetti. There are a lot of titles that come after that. But my friends call me Michael.
Well, Your Highness
Michael, he corrected.
Your friends call you Michael, and I assure you I am not your friend. Ill stick with Your Highness.
Youre right of course, he said, using what he must have thought was a soothing tone.
In reality, it was too husky, too enticing to be soothing.
Youre not a friend. he began. Youre more.
Cara couldnt stand it.
She knew that Parker and Shey were counting on her to keep this wedding intimate and not a circus like so many other royal weddings were. But she couldnt do this.
She couldnt be here, working with him every day.
Parker and Shey would understand. Theyd have to.
She turned and headed for the ticket window.
Where are you going now? he asked, once again on her heels.
This time she realized there was a small group of men trailing after Michael as he followed after her.
Bodyguards?
Probably. After all, a prince had to have his entourage.
A prince. The rat.
To buy a ticket home, she said without turning around to look at him.
Youre running away again? he asked, his voice much softer now.
She whirled around and found herself face-to-face, just inches separating them. What do you mean again? I woke up and you were gone. There was nothing to do but go. I left, but I certainly didnt run away.
Had he been there, she was certain shed have stayed as long as possible.
I went to buy us breakfast only to return to the room and find youd left, he said softly.
Cara felt light-headed.
You were coming back? she whispered.
Of course. You were in my room, after all.
Oh, no. He hadnt left her. He hadnt used her then discarded her. Her hand fell to her stomach. Her babys father wasnt a scum-sucking Casanova.
Another thought occurred to her.
Her babys father was a prince.
Even worse, he was the heir to the Eliason throne.
Cara groaned as she realized that her baby was, in fact, royalty as well.
Oh, no, what had she done?
The blood rushed from her head and Cara did something shed never done before. She fainted.
Two
There wasnt much in life that scared Michael.
All right, he wasnt overly fond of heights. But although he always avoided the window seats in planes, he dealt with the fear and never let on that he was bothered.
But at this moment, he didnt know how to hide his fear, much less deal with it. Cara collapsed in his arms and it was a thousand times worse than any height hed ever experienced.
He eased her down on the ground without releasing his hold on her.
Call an ambulance, he barked.
Marstel was on his mobile before he even finished the sentence.
Satisfied help was on the way, he focused all his attention on Cara. Her eyes fluttered and then opened.
He inhaled deeply and finally felt as if he could breathe again.
Cara, he whispered.
What happened? she said, trying to sit up.
Stay still. You collapsed. Marstel is calling for an ambulance.
No. I dont need an ambulance, Im fine. It was just a long flight. Im sure thats all.
If your collapse was due to just a long flight, I suspect more of the people on the plane would have collapsed. But as far as I can tell, yours is the only body on the floor. You need to see a doctor.
I dont, she said, sitting up, even though he tried to keep her down. Let go.
Cara, youre seeing the doctor.
She struggled to her feet, looked a bit unsteady for a moment, then stood firm and glared at him. I wont.
Michael stood as well and faced her.
This Cara, spitting mad and glaring at him, didnt quite match the mental image of the sweet woman whod spent one passionate night in his arms. It was clear Michael had things to learn about Cara.
You will see the doctor, he said just as firmly. It was a tone he rarely used, but it had always produced the desired result, in the past.
Obviously, not this time.
Cara crossed her arms over her chest and said, Listen, Your Highness, just because youre a prince, doesnt mean Im going to play the loyal subject. Im not seeing a doctor.
She glanced past him and noticed Marstel, phone still in hand. Call off the ambulance, I wont get in it. Theyd be wasting a trip, and it could endanger someone who really needs help.
Marstel looked from Cara to Michael, who just shrugged. Fine, call it off. Ill have Dr. Stevens meet us at home.
Cara shot him a small, brittle smile. I hope youre having him meet you for tea, because hes not touching me.
She whirled around and started down the hall toward baggage claim.
Are you always so stubborn and argumentative? Michael asked, easily matching her pace.
Her expression softened. Believe it or not, no. Im generally quiet and easygoing.
So, its only me who is blessed with seeing this side of you? He shot her a grin.
She shrugged. Guess so.
She wore a small smile, though he could see her struggle against it.
It wasnt much of a smile, just a brief upturn of her lips, but it was a start. A quick reminder of the woman hed known.
Lucky me, he said in a teasing voice.
Why are you following me?
Im your ride home, remember? he said. You have decided to come home, right? I mean, you dont want to let your friends down, do you?
The smile was gone now along with his gentle cara mia. The real Cara Phillips was back and said, I am going to the castle, but only because I love Parker and Shey. But Im not going with you. Ill take a taxi.
There you go, being argumentative again.
I wouldnt have to be argumentative if you werent annoying.
And I wouldnt seem nearly so annoying if you werent so stubborn and argumentative.
I guess we have a stalemate, Cara said.
So, why dont you simply get in my car and let me take you home?
If I do, will you leave me alone once we get there?
I cant promise that, but I will promise to give you some time to settle in before I start annoying you again.
She sighed. Fine.
Then come with me. Marstel will arrange to have your luggage delivered.
Whatever.
Looking more like a woman on her way to the gallows than a woman whod just found out she was being pursued by a prince, Cara came along quietly, but the petite brunettes flashing green eyes seemed to radiate all the words she was holding back. They were seething just beneath the surface, ready to explode at any moment.
He smiled and admitted to himself, he liked that she wasnt intimidated by him.
Too many of the women hed dated had either been awed by his position, or had sought him out hoping to capitalize on it. That one night with Cara hed known that shed seen himjust Michael, not the prince. She didnt look overly awed by the fact he was royal. And she certainly didnt seem intent on capitalizing on it.
As-a-matter-of-fact, she was put out by it.
Come with me, sweetheart, he said, taking her arm, feeling as if everything in his life were suddenly on track.
She jerked her arm away, sent him a scathing look, then followed him as he made his way toward the car.
Michael wasnt sure if round one of their first fight was a win, a loss or a draw, but he was looking forward to seeing what happened in round two.
Cara glanced at the man standing next to her in the hallway of the castle. Parkers home was as grand and wonderful as shed pictured it. Unfortunately, some of her pleasure at arriving was diminished given the company she was keeping.
To think, shed had fantasies for the last three months about finding her Mike. Fantasies where shed run into him on Perry Square. Just bump into him. Hed look at her and whisper, cara mia and pull her into his arms. Hed profess his undying love and apologize for leaving her that morning. She of course would forgive him and when she told him about the baby hed cry with happiness. A manly sort of crying. Really only a tear or two in his eyes as he professed to love her and their child forever.
Shed never have that particular fantasy again.
Now all she wanted to do was get some distance from MikeMichael. The prince. Maybe once she got out of his vicinity shed be able to think again.
She scanned the grand entryway. Her whole apartment would fit in it. Parkers and Sheys as well.
Shed been so excited to be visiting a castle, staying in one. And the impressive gray structure had barely blipped on the radar of her thoughts. All she could do was wonder what on earth she was going to do.
Her fantasy lover hadnt deserted her. He claimed hed been looking for her.
Her Prince Charming was a prince.
And she was carrying his child.
She had to tell him. She knew that much. But not quite yet.
Soon.
As soon as she figured out just what she was going to do.
Maybe shed better wait until she was back in the States to tell him. Maybe hed want to keep the baby. After all, the child growing in her womb was his heir.
What were the laws regarding parental rights in Eliason? And did a prince have to follow them?
She didnt know.
Cara had thought being a single mother was as complicated as her life could get.
She was wrong.
Cara Phillips, may I present my mother, Her Royal Majesty
Cut it out, Michael, his mother said sternly.
Michael and Parkers mother didnt look queenly at the moment. As a matter of fact, she was wearing a battered pair of jeans and a Mercyhurst sweatshirt.
Cara, dear, Ive heard so much about you. Call me Anna. She enveloped Cara in a hug. Ive so longed to meet you. Youve been such a good friend to my Parker.
Your Majesty
The queen cleared her throat.
Anna, Cara corrected herself with a sheepish smile. Im the lucky one. Parkers the best.
Is she truly happy with her private investigator? the queen asked with a motherly concern.
Yes, I believe she is. When Parker and Jace look at each other, you can see She stopped. She wasnt sure how to put it without seeming like a hopeless romantic.
You can see the love? the queen asked.
Yes. Cara couldnt resist a small sigh.
Thats all I ever wanted for her. That shed find a place to belong and someone to belong with. The queen looked toward a dark-haired man in crisply creased Dockers and a dark blue polo shirt striding toward her. Theres nothing more important.
Is this her? the man asked.
Yes. Paul, this is Parkers friend, Cara. Shell be working with Michael and me on the wedding details.
Paul.
The king.
Darn. Cara wished shed asked Parker the proper protocol. Should she bow, curtsy?
She was saved trying to figure it out when the man thrust his hand in her direction. Cara, weve heard so much about you from our wayward, stubborn daughter.
Cara shook his hand and smiled. And Ive heard a lot about you.
He chuckled. I imagine you have.
From what shed heard from Parker over the years, she knew any stubbornness Parker possessed was genetic, inherited from her father.
Now, Cara, lets get you settled and then Ill show you what Ive already accomplished, the queen said. Michaels been my errand boy, and weve really made some progress. Well
I think, Michael said, interrupting his mother, that it would be better for Cara to take a rest rather than jumping into work. She passed out at the airport.
What? the queen and king said in unison.
Ive sent for the doctor, Michael assured them.
Cara caught the look of triumph he shot her. The ha-ha-I-won-this-battle sort of look.
It was simply a long flight, she said. I dont need a doctor. I dont need to rest. I just want to get down to the details.
The queen shook her head. Oh, no. Not until youve been checked out. What would Parker say if she arrived and found you ill?
I
Dont argue, the king instructed. My daughter would blame me if something happened to you, and I can get in more than enough trouble with her without your assistance. So, youll see the doctor and get his clearance before you lift a finger or look at one wedding plan.
Really, Im fine, Cara protested, though no one seemed to notice.
Dr. Stevens will be the judge of that. Now, come with me, dear. Well get you settled, the queen said, putting an arm over her shoulder and leading her down the hall.
Michael, the big tattletale, smirked at her as they walked past him, as if hed gotten one over on her.
Cara had the overwhelming urge to stick her tongue out, but she resisted. She was a grown-up, after all.
Shed see their doctor. Hed give her a clean bill of health, of course, then shed get on with planning the wedding of the century, then go home to Perry Square.
Parkers mother led her through a maze of halls and up a set of stairs.
I may need a map, Cara murmured.
The queen laughed. I felt the same way when Paul first brought me here, but youll get the hang of it soon enough.
She stopped in front of a door. This will be your room. She opened the door with a flourish.
Oh, my. Cara tried to take it all in.
It was the room every little girl dreamed of. A room fit for a princess.
A canopy bed, a huge bay window, complete with window seatand a wall full of bookshelves. For a lifelong bookworm who owned a bookstore, it was the perfect room.
She just stood in the doorway and took it all in.
Parker suggested you might enjoy this room the most, the queen said.
Its lovely.
Your luggage has already been sent up. She gestured to Caras suitcases that were sitting next to the bed. I can help you unpack, or send someone to help you if you prefer.
No, really, Im fine, no matter what Michael says. Some of her pleasure over the room faded as she remembered the total mess shed gotten herself into.
If youre fine it wont hurt to let the doctor take a look, will it? the queen asked gently. It will ease my mind.
Cara admitted defeat. She could fight Michael, but not his mother.
Ill see him, she said. But only if we can get to work after he laughs at all your worries and assures you Im fine.
Youve got a deal, the queen said with a smile. Im so glad youre here. Ive missed my daughter and hope youll fill me in on her life and about this man shes so taken with.
Ill tell you what I can, Cara promised. Youre going to love Jace, I promise. When you see them together, its so obvious that theyre right for each other. It sort of shimmers there for anyone to see. Shes happier than Ive ever seen her.
The queen smiled. Her happiness is all I ever wanted. Now, go rest and Ill send the doctor up as soon as he arrives. She left and closed the door softly.
Cara took in the room.
It was beautiful. She walked up to the shelves and admired the books. Leather-bound volumes that begged to be held and admired for the sheer beauty of their construction, as well as their content.
Normally Cara wouldnt be able to wait to get her hands on them. But right now she had too much on her mind to enjoy them. She sat down gingerly on the bed. It was warm and inviting. Too inviting to resist. She lay back and closed her eyes.
How on earth had she gotten here? The small-town daughter of two academics was now in a castle, surrounded by luxury.
A castle that was the family home of her own childs father.
A loud knock on her door awoke Cara with a start.
She had a momentary attack of where-the-heck-am-I? before she remembered she was in Eliason to plan Sheys and Parkers weddings.
And that she had found Michael, or rather, he had found her.
Someone knocked on her door again.
She sat up, smoothed her hair as best she could and said, Come in.
A man with beachboy-blond hair that looked as if it could use a cut, bright blue eyes and a ready smile rolled a very sporty wheelchair into the room.
Cara Phillips? he asked.
Yes.
Im Dr. Stevens. Tommy Stevens. He wheeled right up to her bed and extended his hand.
Cara took it and shook. He had a firm grip.
Nice to meet you, she said. And Ill apologize up front for the inconvenience. Im absolutely fine, Doctor.
Call me Tommy. And Im sure youre right, but why dont you let me do a brief check just to put your hosts collective minds at rest. Additionally, youre doing me a favor. I love having a reason to make a house call to the castle. They always offer me something to eat on my way out, and if youve ever eaten hospital food, youd know what a perk having access to the royal kitchen is. Marta, the cook, has a crush on me, and spoils me with treats.
Despite her annoyance at being forced to see a doctor, Cara couldnt help but laugh. So, basically you work for food?
He grinned. Exactly. And you wouldnt want to deprive me, would you?
No, she assured him. You dont work exclusively for the family?
No. Theyre a very healthy bunch. I have a private practice. I make house calls because its easier than having their security clear my office for a visit. So, now that Ive charmed you with my winsome bedside manner, do you think I could convince you to have a seat over here, please.
Giving in to the inevitable, Cara sat in the chair next to the bed, which placed her eye to eye with the doctor.
Not sure how intensive his exam would be, Cara had a sudden worry and asked, Before we start, I need to know that patient-physician privilege works the same here as it does in the States? I mean, you cant go divulging my health concerns without my permission, right?
Tommy smiled reassuringly. Yes, we do have the same rules here. I wont say a word about you or your health without your permission. So, I take it that you have a condition I should know about?
Yes, she said, hesitating, not sure how to say it. She hadnt told anyone yet, not even Parker and Shey. She wanted them both to enjoy their weddings without worrying about her. And she knew theyd worry a lot.
Well, you see, Im pretty sure I know why I fainted, and it really isnt anything to worry about. Ive had periods of light-headedness the past few months, and I think this one was worse simply because of the length of the flight.
He waited, not pushing or prodding, just waited for her to finish.
Cara had always trusted her gut feelings. Shed trusted them when shed met Parker and Shey. Shed trusted them when theyd decided to open Titles and Monarchs, their bookstore and coffeehouse respectively, after graduation. Shed trusted her feelings the night shed met Michael.
And she realized she liked this doctor and once again relied on her gut feeling. Im pregnant.
Tommy Stevens didnt even blink an eye with surprise. About how far along?
Three months. I saw my physician before I left Erie and she said there was no reason I couldnt make the trip. She put me on a prenatal vitamin and I promised to see her again as soon as I get home next month.
Well, that could explain things, but Id rather take your pulse, blood pressure and such, if you dont mind.
I dont, Cara said, realizing that having some assurance that everything was all right would be a relief. Whatever you think is best. But Id prefer that no one knows about the pregnancy. I havent even told the father yet. And I didnt want to take anything away from the wedding.
Mums the word, he said, actually making the motion of twisting a key over his lips, then tossing it over his shoulder.
Cara laughed. Thanks so much.
As the doctor opened his bag and took out a stethoscope, he said, Did you ever hear the one about the doctor and the porcupine
Michael stood outside Caras room his hand poised to knock, when a loud peel of laughter rang out. There was a murmur of voices, then more laughter.
He knew his mother wasnt in the room with Cara. Hed just talked to her and shed said the doctor had arrived.
Cara was laughing with the doctor.
Michael didnt like it.
The doctor was supposed to be checking her over, not doing a stand-up routine.
Michael had imagined finding her. The slow smile hed witnessed their one night together would again light her face and shed welcome him with open arms. Instead, the woman laughing so easily next door with the doctor had been distant and wary when hed found her at the airport.
Dating women had never proven to be much of a problem. Finding the right woman had been next to impossible.
Other than a short stint at a university in the States, where hed got a taste for what Parker had had, Michael spent his adult life dating as a prince. His title was the first thing women knew about him. He frequently felt like more of a trophy than a person. Something they could show off to their friends. But Cara had only seen him as Mike, and he knew in his heart of hearts shed felt something that night, just as he had.
Cara had wanted just plain old Mike King. Not Michael Dillonetti, future king of Eliason.
Hed never before felt anything like his reaction to her. There had been an instant connection. He wanted a chance to allow it to grow. He wanted to get to know more about her, and to share himself with her. He wanted Cara to continue seeing him, not the prince.
Parker had chosen a different way of life than what shed been born to. As the heir to the throne, Michael didnt have that luxury. As much as he had grand plans for his countryincreasing tourism and technology being two of his highest prioritieshe had much smaller personal goals. Someone to love, who would love him in returnhim, not his title nor his wealth. A relationship like the one his parents had. A family.
They seemed like small goalsones most people had. But for him they had seemed out of reach until he met Cara Phillips.
The low murmurs in the room were punctuated by another burst of laughter.
He knocked on the door.
Come in, Cara called out.
Michael walked into the room and was unprepared for the emotion that poleaxed him as he spotted Dr. Stevens and Cara sitting together.
Caras smile died immediately when she saw who had entered.
What do you want? she asked, no smile or sign of greeting.
I just came up to check on you.
Her eyes darted toward the doctor then back to him. Im fine.
Dr. Stevens? he asked, not quite believing her.
The doctor shot Cara a strange look, then turned to Michael. Shes absolutely fine, but Im running a few tests just to be sure.
What kind of tests?
Cara thrust out her arm and he noticed the smiley-face bandage in the crook of her arm. He drew some blood and is going to test for anemia. That could explain my light-headedness.
There was something the two of them werent telling him. Michael could sense it.
What else?
Nothing else, Cara said. Now that youve satisfied your curiosity, if you dont mind
She left the sentence hanging, an obvious invitation to leave her room.
I dont mind at all, he said, taking a seat in the armchair. Thank you for coming over so soon, Dr. Stevens.
The doctor took the hint and packed his bag. Before he left, he took a card from his pocket and handed it to Cara. If you need anything, have any problems at all, call me. The top number is my office, the bottom number is a private line. Call anytime of day or night.
Thank you, Tommy.
It was my pleasure, he assured her, then gave Michael a quick nod and left the room.
It was my pleasure, Michael mocked.
Youre the one that forced me to see him, she said. I enjoyed meeting Tommy.
Thats another thing. Tommy. Not even Tom. Ive known the man for at least five years and have always called him Dr. Stevens. Youve known him half an hour and hes Tommy. What was going on between the two of you?
I was assured that doctor-patient privilege is the same here in Eliason as it in the U.S., so I guess that makes what was going on between the two of us my business, doesnt it?
Im concerned, Cara. Michael knew that was an understatement. Concerned didnt even begin to define the heart-stopping fear hed felt when shed fainted. And though she seemed fine, the fear hadnt abated much.
Her look softened a little and for a moment he thought she was going to be reasonable. Instead, she said, Dont be concerned. You heard the doctor, Im fine.
I dont think hed be doing more tests if he was one hundred percent sure of your fineness.
Hes just being cautious. I think it must be a trait of your country.
And you say youve met my sister, Parker? he teased. If caution is a national trait, its one that totally passed her by.
Cara laughed, much to Michaels delight.
Maybe its a trait thats connected to the Y chromosome? she asked.
Maybe. But youll have to admit that the night we met neither of us was particularly cautious.
Some emotion he couldnt quite identify passed over her face as she slowly nodded.
I guess you could say that.
About that night, Id like to
She sprang from the chair. Sorry, Michael. No time to reminisce. Ive got a clean bill of health and need to find your mother and talk about the wedding. Two ceremonies in one and only a month to plan them. Ive got lots and lots of work to do.
Were going to have to talk about that night.
I dont see why. It was just a night. A passing fling. A one-night stand. Theres nothing to talk about or analyze. It was over almost before it started. Now, if you dont mind, Id like to freshen up before the meeting with your mother.
This time Michael took the hint and stood.
Cara looked pale and a bit shaky and he didnt want to upset her more than he suspected she already was.
Fine, Ill let it go for now. But youre here for a whole month, cara mia. You wont be able to run from that night forever.
Im not running. Im simply stating the truth. Id prefer keeping my visit to your country on a completely professional level, if you dont mind.
Ah, cara mia, I do indeed mind. He took her hand and before she could pull it away, he planted a light kiss on it. Ill see you tonight at dinner.
He left her standing in the middle of the room looking a bit shell-shocked, and still far too pale for his peace of mind.
He knew there was more to the tests Dr. StevensTommywas running. He hurried to try and catch the good doctor before he left.
Michael wanted answers and he wanted them now.
Three
Cara had planned to avoid Michael, at least until she figured out what to do. But avoiding the determined prince wasnt easy.
Three days after her leave-me-alone request, she had to admit a momentary defeat, but she didnt accept it gracefully. She glared at him as he sat across from her in the limo, his assistant next to him.
Michaels mother was by her side, talking excitedly about the double wedding, oblivious to any tensions in the car.
Morgan has been designing my clothes for years. I think youll like her plans for Sheys gown and Parkers. And of course, as bridesmaid, shes got something very special in mind for you.
I cant wait to see it. Cara tried to sound enthusiastic for the queens sake, but wasnt sure she quite pulled it off.
It was all Michaels fault. He was staring at her with an intensity that made even a normal conversation difficult.
Thanks so much for letting me tag along, Michael said. It made sense to carpool. And I wont need the car long. When would you two ladies like to be picked up?
About two hours should allow us enough time to look over all Morgans sketches, and permit her to take Caras measurements.
Cara knew it was ridiculous, but she found herself blushing anyway as Michael grinned and raised an eyebrow at the mention of her measurements.
His assistant, whether by chance or design, changed the subject from Caras fittings to guards.
Theyve already cleared the building? he asked the queen.
Yes. There are two guards already there, and another two in the car behind us.
The king asked that I request you dont try to elude them today. Marstel glanced nervously in the queens direction, as if he were afraid of her response.
I promise, she told the dark-haired man. She turned to Cara and explained, When I first arrived in Eliason, I found having bodyguards extremely difficult to deal with. On occasion, I would lose them. Even after all these years, my husband still feels the need to remind me to behave.
All these years? Michael asked. I believe just last month you lost your guards and
Spent the afternoon at the childrens shelter. Bodyguards make the children nervous. Theyre intimidating.
But theyre a way of life, Michael maintained. Just another part of our position.
Do you like being followed? Cara asked Michael, even though shed told herself she was going to totally ignore him.
No, I cant say I enjoy being watched so closely, but its just another facet of my life. And Marstel, in addition to being my assistant, also doubles as security, and hes not overly intimidating.
Hey, Marstel protested with a laugh.
You intimidate me, Cara assured him sweetly.
He grinned. Thanks.
She turned her attention back to Michael. Parker hated this kind of thing.
He nodded. Yes, she did. And Im truly glad shes found a life, found someone who makes her happy.
What about you? Cara asked. Does this life make you happy?
The question sort of slipped out, but she wasnt sorry shed asked. She wanted to know. Was this lifea life her child might someday become a part ofone that a person could find happiness in?
There are facets that provide me with a sense of accomplishment and a great deal of gratification. There are others that are hard to bear, the restriction on my freedom is one of them. He paused and seemed to weigh her question. On the whole, yes, Im happy. Could I be happier? He looked directly at her. Yes.
Caras breath caught for a moment with the intensity of Michaels gaze. When he finally blinked, she felt herself pulled back into focus and pressed. But if you had a choice, would you choose this life?
Unlike Parker, I dont have a choice. This is the life I was born into. I have a duty to my country, one I wouldnt set aside even if I could.
.
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