"I—" I could almost see the wheels turning in her head. Before her were two of the wealthiest and richest kings in our alliance. How could a proper choice be made? The problem was that I was close to letting her know that she had no choice. The moment my eyes had landed on her, I knew I would claim her and consequences be damned.
"Corbin, it is time for you to go." My gaze narrowed on his again and his eyes widened before he nodded stiffly.
"So be it. I will see you again, my dear Alina." He leaned down, giving the top of her hand a kiss. I nearly lunged forward to pick him up bodily and heave him out of sight. I was saved from this act of violence by him walking away hurriedly and the sound of her voice reaching me.
"I don't understand what’s happening." She wrung her hands, and I reached forward to take them so that I might pull her to me for a dance.
"I'm afraid I didn't quite catch your question, my princess.” I pulled her to me, as close as I could and still respect her boundaries on the dance floor. Those light green eyes, made more luminous against the dark green fabric of her gown, cut to mine.
She gave me a shy, crooked smile. "Oh, I wasn't talking to you, Your Majesty."
Well, it seemed she wouldn't be such a bore after all.