She took Dexter’s hand. “I told my father I wanted to live in Axian because it was a fair county where I’d met a man who challenges me, treats me as an equal, and who is my friend. My father was the one who worked in conjunction with Prince Henrick to secure a union between Prince Dexter and myself. The king’s involvement came after.”

“Are you speaking out against the king?” Robert asked.

“Lord Robert,” Reid said, making her tone condescending. “I did not attend school in Axian. However, I’m certain your education can’t be so lacking that you misunderstood me. What you are trying to do is manipulate and twist my words around to suit your own agenda. You need to think before you speak. You question my loyalty to Axian, yet I am simply assuring you that this wonderful county is now my home and my priority. When I inherit Ellington, Prince Dexter and I will decide together how we will oversee both counties. We love each other, and it is our plan to work together as equal partners.”

Everyone burst into applause.

Henrick and Nara joined them on the dais, each holding a goblet. “And with that,” Henrick said, “let’s toast the couple.”

The musicians started playing a lively tune as servants merged with the crowd to hand out drinks.

“Well done,” Nara said, hugging Reid before kissing Dexter on the cheek. “However, I think it would be best if you two retire for the night. I don’t want people bombarding you with questions right now.”

Dexter still held Reid’s hand, appearing in no hurry to let go. “Good idea.” After bidding his parents goodnight, he led Reid off the dais and out of the great hall through a side door. Six soldiers surrounded them with orders to escort the couple to the fourth floor. Once there, Dexter dismissed the soldiers for the night, assuring them that neither he nor Reid would leave the fourth floor until morning.

“Why the added security?” Reid asked, eyeing the two sentries posted at the top of the staircase.

“It’s an extra precaution since there are so many people here for the celebration.” They headed down the corridor to the right. “There are always guards on duty. Usually, they’re posted in discreet places. My mother hates feeling like she’s being watched all the time.”

Reid could understand that sentiment.

“Are you hungry?” Dexter asked.

“Famished.” She’d never gotten a chance to eat at the party.

“Wait in here.” He opened the door to the royal family’s private sitting room. “I’ll be right back.”

The sconces on the walls had been lit and a fire blazed in the hearth, warming the intimate room. Reid went over to one of the windows, gazing out at the city.

“I can’t figure you out,” Gytha said, startling Reid.