Page 46 of Royal Pain

Chapter 16

Belinda

“Does this work?”

I’ve modeled at least six different outfits for Zan to approve. Usually I am very adept at choosing my wardrobe. I’ve got a good sense of style and comportment. But this is out of my comfort zone. An official visit to one of Prince Zan’s charities wasn’t something I’d anticipated.

“I liked the last four choices,” he says slightly annoyed.

“What does that mean? This is number six. You don’t think this would work?”

I’m boring the prince. But he’s showing remarkable patience. Till now.

“Belinda! I wasn’t counting. It’s not that big a deal. That one! The one you’re wearing is perfect!”

I’m about to protest when I see his eyebrows knitting together.

“Okay. Okay. I’m going with this,” I say lacking commitment. I was noticing the skirt might be a little short.

My eyes look up to see he’s watching and he’s noticed my slight hesitation. “That one! Let’s go!”

I give in to the inevitability and grab my purse.

He guides me to the door with a hand behind my back. Yeah, I know what you’re doing, man. There’s no chance for second-guessing now. We walk outside his house and to the backseat of the waiting car. Getting in, Zan speaks to his bodyguard who sits in the passenger seat up front.

“Morning. Anything I should hear about?”

“No, sir. All’s quiet. Except I haven’t heard back about Ms. Banks’ seating.”

“Text them. I don’t want an embarrassing situation when we get there. Make sure you’re straightforward.”

Zan raises the glass divide for our privacy.

“What’s that about?” I say as the car pulls away.

“Nothing, really. I want to make sure they know I’m bringing a guest. No big deal.”

“I don’t have to sit right next to you, if it’s a problem.”

He looks at me like I’m crazy. “Yes you do. I won’t have it any other way.”

From behind the car comes honking. Over and over. Someone’s trying to get our attention. Zan looks back.

“It’s Kwai.” He knocks on the glass and motions for the driver to pull over.

“Wonder what this is about? I know he doesn’t want to come, I’ve already asked.”

The car comes to a stop and Kwai pulls up next to us. He gets out and approaches as Zan opens his door.

“What’s up?”

There’s a serious look on his brother’s face. One I haven’t seen before.

“Just want you to know you may want to return tonight instead of staying as planned. I just left the house. Dad’s not feeling well.”

Zan’s concern is real. “Do you think I should stay? I mean, I’ll cancel if it’s serious.”

Then he reads his brother’s expression. He’s questioning how much I know, and how much he should say.