Royally Deceived (Murder and Romance Are on the Menu Book 2) by J. D. Carothers

Author:J. D. Carothers [Carothers, J. D.]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Dreamlific Publishing
Published: 2023-07-24T23:00:00+00:00

CHAPTER TWENTY-NINE

XANDER

Over the years, I’ve often found peace gazing across the lawn from the top of the palace steps. Looking for that solace, I’m here again because the meeting with my parents and palace security this morning shook me. I’m still reeling from their shocking news.

The motorcycle incident in London was intentional.

No one can tell me who wants to harm me or why. The security officer repeatedly assured me I’m safe on the palace grounds, but that’s of little comfort when Everly died from sabotage on palace grounds. What if she died because of a target on my back? That’s a startling thought. I’m at a loss as to what to do to protect myself and those around me. All I know is that Robert and Darren won’t be letting me out of their sight any time soon.

Breathing in the fresh air for another five or ten minutes, my head starts to clear. Unexpectedly, thoughts of Ariana fill my head. My mood improves, remembering how she was playful and sexy when the rain was pummeling us at the stables. We laughed like teenagers while rolling in the mud. It felt so freeing. I haven’t had that level of fun in ages. Not to mention the almost kiss …

Damn Peter’s timing.

Looking into the distance, I wish we’d met under circumstances where we could’ve explored the spark between us. But she’s not looking for a relationship now, much less a royal one. And the king still believes my future bride should be versed in our way of life to handle her future role as queen. Deep down, I know he has a point. How could I ask someone to take on my life who wasn’t born into this twisted mess of rules and protocols? Look at all the royal marriages that have failed even when the couple knew before walking down the aisle that this life would put an immense strain on their relationship.

For some reason, I’m no longer smiling when Edmund approaches.

“Your Highness, Her Majesty Queen Josephine has left for Lady Everly’s funeral. She asked me to let you know she’ll convey your regrets.”

Biting my tongue, I nod. There’s no reason to take my frustration out on Edmund. It’s not his fault my parents won’t let me pay my respects in person.

“Will you need my assistance today?”

“No, I’m having lunch with Evan and Bri. Take the rest of the day off. I’ll be back at The Shores this evening.”

On my walk to Evan’s apartment, I contemplate my latest frustration with Father. It’s ridiculous he won’t let me attend the funeral service for Everly, but he and Mum argued it wouldn’t be proper. They’re concerned that if I attend, the matchmaking process will leak, and the tabloids will report I’m part of a reality dating show. They’re also worried the tabloids will say Everly was my first choice, making my future wife appear to be a backup bride. That’s preposterous, but the king resorted to a little-used tactic. He directly ordered me to stay in Catalinius.

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