Page 57 of Royal Affair

God, she was beautiful. Even now, with disappointment clouding her features, she was the most stunning thing I'd ever seen. Nine days, and I'd forgotten how her mere presence could knock the air from my lungs.

"Your Highness," Roger began, immediately, adopting a deferential tone that made my stomach turn. "There's been a misunderstanding."

She ignored him, her gaze fixed on me. "James?"

My name on her lips sent a jolt through me. I released Roger, stepped back, and struggled to regain my composure.

"Mr. Banks was just leaving," Dara said firmly. "After an incident with Mr. Halliwell."

Evangeline stepped closer, her composure perfect even as her eyes flashed with determination. Her scent—vanilla and jasmine—hit me like a physical force. Nine days, and I'd forgotten how intoxicating it was to be near her.

"That won't be necessary. Mr. Banks isn't going anywhere."

The corridor fell silent. Dara looked as if someone had slapped her. "Your Highness, with all due respect?—"

"Mr. Banks will be remaining as my primary security detail," Evangeline continued, her voice leaving no room for argument. "Dara, I'll need you to file the necessary paperwork to makethis official. Mr. Halliwell's contract will be terminated effective immediately."

Dara looked uncomfortable. "Your Highness, I'll need to discuss this with the palace administrator and?—"

"Then discuss it," Evangeline cut her off calmly. "But Mr. Halliwell leaves today, and Mr. Banks resumes his duties immediately. I'm sure you can expedite the paperwork."

Roger's face reddened. "Princess, I don't think you understand the situation. He attacked me unprovoked."

"I doubt that very much," she replied coolly. "And it's 'Your Highness,' not 'Princess.' I may not have completed my veterinary degree yet, but I know the proper royalty address."

I fought the urge to smile at her cutting remark. This was the woman I knew—poised, intelligent, and absolutely lethal when crossed.

"Dara," Evangeline turned to the head of security, her tone softening slightly. "I appreciate your concern, but my decision is final. Please make the arrangements."

Dara's professional mask slipped back into place, though I could see the disapproval lingering in her eyes. "As you wish, Your Highness."

"Mr. Halliwell," Evangeline continued, "your severance pay will be more than generous. I suggest you use some of it for sensitivity training."

Roger opened his mouth to protest, but something in her expression made him think better of it. With a stiff nod, he retreated down the corridor, Dara following close behind.

When we were alone, Evangeline turned to me, raising one eyebrow. "I can't leave you alone for an hour without you starting fights in the palace?"

I kept my expression neutral, fighting the urge to reach for her. Nine days without her smile, voice, and warmth had been excruciating. But I couldn't show it. I wouldn't.

"He needed to be put in his place," I said simply, my voice deliberately flat.

She stepped closer, close enough that I could smell her perfume more clearly. The subtle scent made memories flash through my mind—her perfume on my sheets and on my skin. I clenched my fists at my sides.

"And what place is that?"

"Anywhere far away from you."

A ghost of a smile played on her lips. "Jealous, Mr. Banks?"

"Professionally Concerned," I countered, echoing the words I'd said to her once before. The lie tasted bitter in my mouth.

Her smile widened momentarily before fading, a brief sun breaking through clouds. "We need to talk, James. About what happened."

I nodded, knowing she meant our night together—the night that had changed everything for me. The night I'd tasted paradise, only to walk away from it because I was too bloody stubborn, too damn scared.

"Not here," I managed, my voice rougher than intended.

"Walk with me," she said, turning toward the gardens. "I need some air anyway."