Page 53 of Trained Royal

Patrick’s heart broke. He wished he could click his fingers and make Kieren all better, but he knew the road would be bumpy. They’d weather it together.

“I brought tea. I checked with the nurse that you could have it if you want?”

“Tea?” Kieren raised an eyebrow.

Patrick grinned. “Yes, tea. You can’t have coffee yet.”

Kieren’s bottom lip came out. “Meanie.”

Patrick’s laugh echoed around the room. “Maybe, but it’ll help.”

“So will a kiss.”

Patrick’s smile never wavered as he lowered his head and touched their lips together. “Better?”

“I don’t know. Maybe another one, to be sure?”

The twinkle in Kieren’s eyes helped to reassure Patrick that they would be fine. It might take time, but eventually, they would be good. He kissed Kieren more than once. Little pecks on his mouth, cheeks and forehead before returning to his mouth again.

He took his cup and sat in the chair. “I spoke to Zane. He says to ring him when you’re feeling up to it.”

Kieren nodded. “Thanks. I will. Was he okay?”

“He was. A little upset about the incident, but he’s okay.”

Kieren winced. “Yeah, he’ll take a strip from my hide for it, but I promise it’s just because he cares.”

“I know he does. I can hear it in his voice.” Patrick sipped his tea and opened his mouth to speak when a knock sounded. He put the tea down and opened the door a crack, then held up a finger. He turned back to Kieren. “It’s Freddie. Is it okay if he comes in?”

Kieren nodded and put his cup down, trying to push himself to a seated position, but groaned and grimaced instead.

Patrick rushed over, placing a hand gently on Kieren’s chest. “Stop trying to move, you idiot. You’ll do more damage and end up staying in here for longer than you want.”

“It’s not right to be lying down when royalty is in the room,” Kieren said.

Patrick chuckled. “You don’t have a problem lying down when I’m with you.”

Kieren paused, staring at him, mouth gaping. “I can’t believe you just went there!”

Patrick laughed. “Just lay down and be a good boy, or…” He lowered his mouth to Kieren’s ear, “I’ll have to tie you to the bed.”

Kieren closed his eyes and pushed his head into the pillow. “Patrick!” he hissed, covering his groin with his hand.

Patrick snorted and pulled the rolling table over Kieren’s lap, hiding his erection. “I’m going to let him in now.”

“Okay,” Kieren croaked.

Patrick went to the door, face flaming when he realised he’d left it ajar instead of closing it like he thought he had. He met Freddie’s amused expression with his head held high, ignoring his heated cheeks.

“Come on in.”

Freddie entered, leaving his two guards outside with Jade and Nina, but not until one of them had checked the room first.

“How are you feeling, Kieren?” Freddie asked, grabbing a chair and settling next to Patrick.

Kieren blew out a breath and winced. “I’ve been in better health, but I’m good, thanks.”

“Thank you for protecting him. It means the world to us.”