The Princess and the Outlaw by Leanne Banks

Author:Leanne Banks
Language: eng
Format: epub, mobi
Publisher: Harlequin
Published: 2012-08-31T04:00:00+00:00

Chapter Eight

Pippa arrived in Italy the next day. Count Bianchi greeted her at the airport. He was nearly bald with a paunch, but she tried very hard not to compare him to Nic. It was difficult because she had begun to compare every man to Nic.

“A pleasure to meet you, Your Highness,” he said.

“And you, Count Bianchi,” she said.

“Please call me Sal,” he said. “You’re such a lovely young woman. I’m pleased to have you by my side.”

“Thank you very much, Sal,” she said. “Tell me about your children.”

During the ride, to Sal’s chateau, she learned that Sal’s oldest child was, in fact, older than her by five years. Sal also had several grandchildren. He showed her several photos and mentioned his wish to marry again.

Pippa rode the fence by praising his children but not encouraging any discussion of her interest in him. After a quick respite in her room, she shared dinner with him in his formal dining room. Finally, they made the trip to the museum where Pippa made a brief speech encouraging historical and genealogical research.

Pippa begged off when Sal invited her to join him for a nightcap.

The following day, she geared up for a ride on a yacht, complete with photos. Afterward, she helped christen a new cruise ship with the count by her side. Every second, she damned Stefan for arranging this. Someone had clearly given the count entirely too much hope and she had to find a way to let him down easy. A chauffeur drove them back to his estate after the event.

“Have you enjoyed yourself?” the count asked, leaning toward her.

Pippa discreetly scooted away. “It’s certainly been a long day. I’m more than ready for a good night of sleep.”

“I understand you’ll be in my country tomorrow night,” the count said. “I would love to show you Capri. I know several restaurants and beaches that might please you.”

“I couldn’t trouble you,” she said. “You’ve already done too much for me.”

The count sighed.

“Sal, may I ask you? How long has it been since your wife passed away?” she asked.

He looked at her in surprise. “Ten months and three days.”

She smiled and took his hand. “You’re still counting days,” she said gently. “I don’t want to be presumptuous, but I don’t think you’re ready for a new wife. I know you’re lonely, but I encourage you to take your time. You’re a good man. You deserve a good woman.”

He inhaled and smiled at her. “I’m an old fool to think I could attract a young princess like you.”

She shook her head. “It’s not that,” she rushed to assure him. “I can tell that you’re still not over your wife. I’m sorry for your pain, but at the same time, I know you’re fortunate to have experienced that kind of love.”

“Yes, I am,” he said and began to talk about his former wife. Nearly an hour later, they arrived at his home. He appeared startled by the passage of time.

“I’m sorry if I’ve bored you,” he said, clearly chagrined.

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