“Ah, the kicker.” She smiled again and tried to ignore the fact that she felt like a bowl of gelatin. “How about free orchestra seats to opening night of each play?”

“I wouldn’t refuse.” Her pulse was strong, her blood pressure well within the normal range, but there was still a lack of color in her cheeks and a hollow look around the eyes. “But to seal this bargain, I must have your word that you will rest for twenty-four hours.”

“Twenty-four? But tomorrow I have to—”

“Twenty-four,” he repeated in his mild, implacable tone. “Or I will tell the prince that you require a night of observation here at St. Alban’s.”

“If I have to stay in bed all day tomorrow, I’ll need more than a hospital.”

“We could perhaps compromise with a walk in the garden, a drive by the sea. But no work, my dear, and no stress.”

She could make calls from her bedroom, she decided. Her office would probably take days to repair in any case. And if agreement got her out, she’d agree. “Twenty-four hours.” She sat up again and offered her hand.

“Come, then. I’ll take you out before there is a rut in the corridor from the pacing.”

Alexander was indeed pacing when Dr. Franco brought her out of the examining room. Bennett was leaning against the wall, watching the door. As soon as they came through, both men started forward. Alexander took Eve’s hand, but looked at Franco.

“Doctor?”

“Miss Hamilton is naturally a bit shaken, but has a strong constitution.”

“I told you,” she said smugly.

“However, I have recommended twenty-four hours of rest.”

“Not bed rest,” Eve put in.

“No,” Franco agreed with a smile. “Not complete bed rest. Though all activity should be relaxing. What she needs now is some quiet and a good meal.”

“Medication?” Alexander asked.

“I don’t believe she requires anything, Your Highness, but a bit of pampering. Oh, and I would disconnect the phone in her room for the next twenty-four-hour period.” When Eve’s mouth fell open, he patted her hand. “We can’t have you disturbed by phone calls, can we, my dear?” With a final pat he wandered away.

“Sharper than he looks,” Eve said under her breath, but was weary enough to accept defeat. “Russ?”

“One of the guards took him back to the hotel.” Bennett touched her shoulder. “His nerves are a bit shot, that’s all. The doctor gave him some tranquilizers.”

“Now we’ll take you home.” Alexander took her arm. Bennett flanked her other side. “My father and the rest of the family are anxious to see for themselves that you’re all right.”

* * *