He chuckled. “See? I’ve scared you.” He took a step away. “I never know whether I should be gentlemanly or not. If you’ll appreciate that or take offense if I don’t treat you as an equal. You’re infuriating, confusing, beautiful, and intriguing. No one has challenged me the way you do, Reid Ellington. And since we’re admitting things we shouldn’t, I can’t wait to marry you.” He leaned down, gently placing a chaste kiss on her cheek. “Goodnight.” He left Reid there.

Knees weak, she wasn’t sure if she wanted to run and tackle him or slip into her bedchamber and lock the door. Maybe both.

The following morning, Reid dressed and exited her suite, about to head to the dining room when she came face to face with Gytha. “What are you doing here?”

“Funny, I ask that question about you all the time,” Gytha replied.

Reid rolled her eyes.

Gytha sighed. “Prince Dexter assigned me to be your personal guard.”

“I don’t need to be protected.”

“I told him the same thing. But neither you nor I have a choice in the matter.”

Reid always had a choice. She headed to the dining room with Gytha on her heels. Thankfully, the woman remained outside when Reid entered. The entire family and Ackley were already eating.

“Dexter,” Reid said as she took a seat at the table.

“Just humor me,” he answered.

“Couldn’t it be anyone else?”

“She’s the best.”

“I know. But she hates me.”

“What are you two talking about?” Nara asked.

“Dexter assigned Gytha as my personal guard.”

Colbert chuckled. Ackley’s eyes narrowed. Henrick seemed confused.

“That’s an excellent idea,” Nara said. “With the king coming and this threat from Melenia, you should have a guard.”

“Please,” Dexter said. “As soon as Melenia is dealt with, you won’t need a guard anymore.”

Reid swallowed the ten nasty retorts on the tip of her tongue, knowing they wouldn’t help her case. Because she couldn’t say she was capable of defending herself in her condition. Until her ribs were fully healed, she was vulnerable. “Does anyone else in the family have a guard?”

“You’re not familiar with the city and countryside like we are.” Dexter set his fork down, leaning forward on his arms. “I don’t know what Melenia intends to do. I may need to take my army out to stop them. I can’t lead my men if I’m worried about you. Yes, you are perfectly capable of taking care of yourself and you probably don’t need a guard, but I want you to have one. Please, do this for me.”

“He’s right,” Ackley said. “You should have protection. A female guard is an excellent choice. And I’ve met Gytha.” A wicked smile spread across his face. “I like her.”