How to Catch a Prince

She nodded as he extended his hand to steady her. For that crazy, tiny moment, she relished his touch. His hand was strong and assuring against hers. The doctor had released her with the condition that someone could check in on her throughout the first night.

“Yes, I’m okay,” she said. “I’m sure I’d be fine staying by myself.”

“That’s not going to happen. If you don’t want to go to the palace, we can make other arrangements,” he said and she felt him studying her.

“I’m okay with it. Then I can say I’ve spent the night at a royal palace,” she said, smiling. “Besides, it will just be one night.”

“Or two,” he said.

She was surprised at his concern for her. “Is there something I haven’t been told? Am I okay?” she asked. “Have I lost some of my mental capacity? What did the doctor say?”

“You’re fine,” he said and squeezed her shoulder. “The doctor said all your tests are normal.”

“Then why are you being so weird?” she asked, searching his gaze.

He shook his head. “I was caught off guard. You’re always so strong and to see you hurt, it—” He broke off. “It did something to me.”

His concern rocked through her. “Thanks,” she said. “But I think I’m going to be okay.” She glanced at his face and corrected herself. “I know I’m going to be okay.”

“You call me anytime you want to leave the palace,” he said.

Again, she was surprised at his concern for her. “No problem. I don’t think they’ll throw me in the dungeon.”

“Okay, I’m here if you need me. I’ll ride with you to the palace,” he said. “Bridget was very insistent that you should stay at the palace. She was … pushy.”

Sophie couldn’t help laughing. “You think?”

Max frowned.

“I’ll be all better tomorrow, so it won’t be an issue.”

“Okay,” he said and his gaze held hers.

With his outward expression of worry for her, she could almost think she was emotionally important to him. Could that be possible?

Then he stepped away, and she immediately felt his absence.

The nurse entered the room. “All ready?” the woman asked.

Seconds later, a palace assistant appeared. “We’re ready to escort Miss Taylor away.”

“Here are the instructions,” the nurse said, lifting them.

Max snatched the sheet of paper. “Can you make an extra copy?”

The nurse lifted her eyebrows. “Of course, sir.”

Just a few moments later, Sophie was driven away from the hospital toward the palace with Max by her side. Sophie leaned her head back against the seat. “Those Devereauxes lead a different life.”

She felt Max’s gaze on her. “What?” she asked, not opening her eyes.

“Are you saying you would like to live like a royal?” he asked.

She opened her eyes and met his gaze. “I wouldn’t mind living like a royal every once in a while,” she said. “But not all the time. How’s that royal thing working out for you?”

He frowned. “So far, no one is all that interested in me.”

“That bothers you?” she asked.

“Hell, no,” he said. “I think I understand my role with the Devereauxes. They’re happy to use my resources to improve their island, and they’re relieved I don’t want anything from them.”

“You may be partly right, but after meeting the Devereaux sisters, they seem like caring people. If you gave them half a chance, you might enjoy a nice relationship with them,” she said.

“I’m giving them a good road. I’m sure they’ll value that far more than being buddies with me.”

“I wish you wouldn’t be so stubborn about this,” she said.

“Just because you wish you had brothers and sisters doesn’t mean I do,” he told her gently.

“Deny, deny,” she retorted. “You’ll realize it eventually.”

“My darling analyst/assistant, stop thinking about me, and focus on yourself.”

The car entered the palace gates and stopped outside the side door of the palace.

Sophie drew in a quick breath. “I think we’re here.”

“Yeah, I guess we are,” Max said. “I think I should go inside with you.”

Surprise rushed through Sophie. “Why? Do you really think they’re going to mistreat me?”

Max frowned. “No, but—”

“Didn’t you say I needed to start relaxing?” she asked, wishing she didn’t feel like she needed a nap.

“I guess so,” he muttered.

“Then that’s what I plan to do,” she said and accepted the driver’s hand as he helped her from the car.

“I’ll walk you in,” he said.

“Not necessary,” she said and shut the car door.

Sophie awakened in the middle of the night and took a potty break. She returned to her bed, but a female staff member was waiting.

“Can I help you with anything, Miss Taylor?”

Startled, she nodded. “I’m fine, thank you.”