Page 137 of American Royalty

Below, it was like a scene in a fairy tale come to life. Men inblack tie and women in neutral and jeweled tones, both sparkling and muted, dotted the enormous space. A throne canopy, in a rich red and gold, sat on a dais on the far end of the room beneath the prominent display of the crest of the House of Lloyd. Chairs covered in a matching fabric were situated on either side of the area, providing guests places to sit down during the festivities. Standing golden candelabras dotted the perimeter, the flicker of their candles adding an otherworldly glow.

Dani had thought the splendor of the celebratory dinner had been impressive. This made that event look like her high school prom. The ballroom at Buckingham Palace was simply spectacular.

The footman standing next to them announced, “Duchess and Miss Nyla Patterson escorted by Liam Cooper.”

Although the activity on the far side of the room continued, those closest to them turned to watch as they made their way down the grand stairs.

Don’t trip. Don’t trip. Please don’t trip. Be graceful. You’ve done performances on slippery stages in stiletto heels. You can do this.

Her eyes skimmed the crowd, her breath catching when she saw him. If ever a man was made to wear white tie...

He was magnificent in full royal regalia. His tailcoat was expertly tailored to emphasize his broad shoulders, slim hips, and long legs while the navy sash, multicolored ribbons, and medals lent him a regal stature and gravitas. He looked like a dream come true. A dream she’d never known she wanted until him.

Until that moment.

Across the breadth of the room and the people in between, their eyes met and held. Her vision narrowed until she could see no one else.

After tonight you’ll never see him again.

The thought swept through her, leaving her chilled and bereft.She shivered and that slight loss of focus caused her to stumble. She steadied herself, tightening her grip on Liam’s arm.

Were they being rash? Did it have to be all or nothing? They were two people with means and influence. They could find a way to keep their travel secret, avoid high-profile places and events, employ more disguises. If they wanted to, they’d make it work. They had to. Because the thought of never seeing him again was unbearable. She wasn’t ready to let him go.

When she, Nyla, and Liam were almost to the bottom of the stairs, she lost sight of him. While the footman introduced the next couple, they were swarmed by fellow attendees.

“That was a dazzling performance,” a woman on her left said.

“The concert was incredible. I think Prince John would’ve been proud.”

“I really enjoyed the two of you performing together. Serious chemistry,” Kay Morgan said, her iconic style on display in a black flowing topcoat and dress, her grayish blond waves piled in a messy knot on top of her head.

“Thank you,” Dani said. “I caught your set on the monitor. You were wonderful.”

“Getting them ready for you.” Kay winked.

A cleared throat made Dani laugh. “Kay, this is my friend Nyla Patterson.”

“It’s a pleasure,” Nyla said, shaking Kay’s outstretched hand. “I’m a fan.”

“Thank you. Are you a musician, too?” Kay asked.

Dani shook her head. “She’s an actress.”

“I’m afraid I don’t watch much TV or movies these days. Tell me something you’ve been in.”

As Nyla started to run down her IMDb page, Liam touched Dani’s elbow. “How about some champagne?”

“A man after my heart! Yes, please.”

He excused them and led her to a roaming waiter and his loaded tray.

“Thanks,” she said, accepting the drink Liam handed her.

“You’re welcome.” His smile rivaled the sparkles in their flutes. “I’ve really enjoyed this week.”

“Me, too. It turned out well, I think.”

“I’ve especially enjoyed my time with you. When we get back to the States, we should hang out more.”