Page 31

“I should go.” She shuffled to the edge of the seat and handed Isabella to Brianna.

“Is Mack taking you home?” Anna asked.

She’d caught an Uber to the castle, so she would need to do the same on the way home. “No, I’m fine. I just need someone to show me the way out.”

The castle was huge.

It had taken them almost twenty minutes to get to the royal wing from where she met them by the entrance.

“No. I have a night off and it’s early,” Brianna said. “The other girls are at Max Bar. Let’s swing by there and one of us can drive you home later.”

“Yes, let’s go. Cassy telepathed ten minutes ago, asking where we are.” Madison nodded at her as if she knew who that was.

“Do you have any plans?” Anna inquired.

Ella bit her lip and shook her head. “No, I just arrived from Seattle today, so stopped by to see Mack. Then”—the words justfell out—“I saw the prince and almost died, and then you all invited me in here, and I’m now sitting with the princess and queen and don’t know what is going on anymore.”

Shit.

That wasn’t what she meant to say.

Kate picked up Lucca, who kicked his legs around dramatically, unaware of the awkward situation around him, and smiled at Ella. “You are among friends.”

She really wasn’t.

She was among royalty.

“I remember the first time I met Vincent and Kate,” Willow said. “I was human, so I didn’t have the same concept of the Moretti family as you do. But the king was bossy, and Kate was beautiful.”

“Some would say I still am, thank you very much.” Kate said so sternly, Ella’s eyes widened.

Then the queen laughed.

The room seemed to light up with her smile and joy. She’d grown up admiring the royal family like most vampires. The photos of the king and queen had been displayed in her home, but it was rare to see live footage on them.

“I think you are the most beautiful female I’ve ever seen in my life, my queen.” Ella sighed.

All the females smiled as if they agreed.

“God. Sorry. I don’t mean to fan girl on you. But—”

“She is.” Anna leaned and patted her knee. “I totally get it.”

Kate graciously accepted the compliment with a nod and soft smile, as only a person fully in their power could.

“Make sure Ella gets home safely, and if you'd like a room here while you’re in Maine, please tell Mack to arrange it.”

“Thanks.” Ella blushed.

Brianna jumped up and handed the princess back to her mom. “Okay, nicey-nicey stuff aside, let’s go drink!”

Kate and Lucca said their goodbyes, while Willow said she was going to put Isabella down for a nap. But wouldn’t be joining them.

As Ella picked up her handbag, Briana suddenly let out a moan. Then she crossed her arms.

Thenglanced at Ella, her brows lowered.

“You sure this male isn’t your mate?”