by Calista King
"Mmm," she murmured once she got in. "So comfy."
Once her head hit the pillow she was out.
***
Andreas smiled as he looked at Laila sleeping peacefully on the bed. She looked so happy and content. Just seeing her like that made him feel like everything was right in the world. Andreas didn't want anything to mar the tranquility, but he knew tomorrow would be a trial, not only for him, but for Laila.
The first obstacle they had to deal with was his parents. They'd made it pretty clear he was to report to breakfast and face their interrogation. He would let Laila sleep in so she wouldn't have to witness what he expected would be an unpleasant scene.
The next thing on his agenda was to meet with Ulrich. His gut clenched as he thought about the disturbing information he'd received just before they boarded the plane. He needed to speak with Ulrich to find out where they stood in their investigation of Henriks. Andreas had always thought of Henriks as a slimy bastard, but the information he got was so much worse than he expected. If it were true, then Henriks deserved to be put in jail.
He sat on the couch in their sitting room and ran his hand over his chin in thought. This was it. Laila was in Castonia, she would meet his parents and his brother, and be formally introduced to the country as his fiancé. Everything would be made official and they could start planning for the wedding and set a date. The thought terrified Andreas, but he was excited as well. He couldn't wait to make Laila his wife, but he was scared that she hadn't actually considered what being married to him entailed.
When they were in New York, it was easy to pretend that their lives would stay the same. He'd go to work five days a week and spend his free time with her. They'd eat dinner together, go to movies, and take walks in the park. Now that she was in Castonia, Andreas knew she'd be made aware all too quickly that there was a lot more to becoming his wife than she could ever imagine. He just hoped she was prepared to accept the changes in her life.
Andreas was craving a drink, but knew he couldn't have one. He'd gone over a year without one and he didn't want to slip back into old habits. But something about being back home, with all the worries and concerns plaguing him made him vulnerable.
He got up from the couch and shook his head in disgust at the turn his thoughts were taking. There was no reason for him to turn to drinking just because he had some nagging little concerns. He had Laila on his bed waiting for him and that was all he needed.
Andreas hopped into bed after brushing his teeth and slipping off his clothes. He snuggled up against Laila, wrapping his arm around her waist, and felt a comforting sense of being home.
CHAPTER 24
The next morning dawned bright and early. Andreas rolled over and stretched his stiff muscles before quietly slipping out of bed. Laila was still sleeping soundly and he had no intention of waking her. He took a shower and got dressed for the day.
Andreas knew he had to face his parents. He wasn't really concerned about what they'd say to him, but he hated to think what they would say or do to Laila if they didn't approve of her. He knew very well how they could be to people they deemed unworthy.
He checked his watch and saw that it was already 8:45 am. Andreas knew his parents would be annoyed if he were late for breakfast, so he slipped out of the room and headed to the private dining room where the family ate meals. Even though the room was not as formal as some of their other dining rooms, it was still magnificent on a grand scale. The room was large and airy with high ceilings and walls that featured rococo marble panelings and gilded scroll work. It was a bit too showy for Andreas' tastes, but suited his mother's style.
When he stepped in the dining room, he saw his parents were already seated at the table. His brother Frederick was also there seated to his father's right, while his mother sat to his father's left. Andreas walked in and offered a polite smile before taking a seat next to Frederick.
"Good morning, Family," he said cheerily. "What's for breakfast? I'm starving."
His mother stared at him sternly while his father kept his nose pressed in his newspaper, not bothering to acknowledge Andreas' entrance or his greeting.
"Morning," Frederick replied. "I figured you'd still be sleeping since your flight got in so late last night."
"Yes, well I didn't really have a choice, now did I?" Andreas asked as he looked pointedly at his mother. "By the way, Mother, what was it you wanted to speak about?"
"Andreas, please stop with this little act. You know perfectly well what I want to say. It's about your absurd engagement to a completely unknown woman whom I learned you've just met!"
Andreas felt his hackles rise at his mother's words, but he worked hard to control his temper. He did not appreciate his mother's harsh words, but it was no less than what he expected. Adopting a carefree attitude, he stared at her placidly and gave her a small smile.
"I understand your concern, but I'll have you know that I will not be swayed from my decision. Laila is a wonderful girl and there is absolutely nothing you could say or do that would make me go back on my word. We will be married."
Carlotta let out a huff of frustration and threw her hands up. "Speak to your son," she demanded, turning to her husband. "You must make him see reason. We know nothing about this girl. She has no family, no name, nothing to recommend her. Is she even fit to be a princess?"
Andreas felt a retraining hand on his arm and looked over to see his brother Frederick slowly shaking his head at him. He knew Frederick was trying to prevent a scene or blow up first thing in the morning. It wouldn't do anyone any favors, least of all him and Laila.
Andreas conceded to his brother's wisdom and let the slight go. He had to keep reminding himself that he had expected this reaction. He knew his parents wouldn't appreciate the news of his engagement, especially to someone like Laila--a woman they'd never heard about, and who didn't have a drop of aristocratic blood in her veins. Still, it didn't stop the disappointment from hurting him. He'd hoped his parents would be happy for him and come into it with an open mind, but now he knew that was a foolish dream.
"Your mother's right, of course," his father said.
He pulled the newspaper away from his face and folded it before placing it on the table. He finally turned his attention to Andreas. "How can you be certain this girl isn't like that other one?"
"Laila is nothing like Caroline!" Andreas said.
"Are you sure about that? How well do you really know her?" his father asked him. "You've only been seeing each other for a few months and yet you think you can trust her?"
"I know I can. Laila is honest and trustworthy and has never lied to me. I know you probably don't believe me or think I'm a fool rushing into another mistake, but this is anything but. I know exactly what I'm doing. Once you meet her, you can see for yourself what a wonderful person she is."
"So where is she? Why did she not come down for breakfast?" his mother asked.
"I let her sleep in. She was exhausted from the trip and I did not want to disturb her."
"Is she pregnant? Is that why you must marry in such haste?" his mother blurted out.
"Mother!" Andreas and Frederick both shouted.
"Why are you looking at me like I said something preposterous? What did you expect us to think when you suddenly announce your engagement to a girl you just met, without even consulting your father and I? By the way, you still have not answered the question Andreas."
Andreas clenched his jaws, counting down to ten in his mind to rein in his temper.
"No, she is not pregnant," he bit out. "As for your other questions, last time I checked I was a grown man. I do not and will not ever consult you or father in my personal relationships because it is none of your business, respectfully."
"But it is our business. You're not just anyone, Andreas. You're a prince! When will you understand that and do what is right for this family and do your duty?"
"What duty is that?" Andreas asked. His voice was low and silky, but there was a dangerou
s quality to it, an implied threat.
"To marry someone of your station who is worthy of being a princess!" his mother said.
"You're wrong mother. Laila is every bit as worthy of being my wife and a princess than all the young noble women in all of Europe. In fact, she might be too good for us...and me. I'm not saying it won't be an adjustment for her, but I hope you all will accept her and ease her transition to this life."
His mother was silenced by his words. Andreas knew she expected him to fly off the handle and throw a tantrum, storming and raging about how tyrannical they were. He'd done as much many times before when they would question his judgment. But the past few months had taught Andreas some things about himself. He felt more mature and centered, and he knew a large part of the reason was because of Laila.
"You're different," his father said.
Andreas didn't know if that was a compliment or an insult, but he was encouraged to think it was the latter. There was no censure or scorn in his father's eyes, just curiosity and surprise.
"I'd like to think that I've grown up," he said.
"I agree," Frederick chimed in. "If your Laila is responsible for these changes in you, then I for one think she's a miracle worker."
"Thanks," Andreas answered drolly.
He knew Frederick was only trying to help, so he took his words in stride. His mother remained silent and Andreas was about to write her off. She'd always been a hard nut to crack and when she thought she was right, there was no convincing her otherwise. But even she unbent a little.
"Very well. We'll meet this Laila of yours for ourselves and reserve judgment until then," she pronounced.
Andreas thanked his mother and finished off his breakfast. He wanted to check in on Laila before meeting with Ulrich. He couldn't forget the disturbing news he received and wanted to touch base with him to find out firsthand what was going on. Andreas stood up and was about to excuse himself when his father spoke.
"Before you run off, make sure to check your schedule. We have the fireworks display tonight and there will be a banquet for foreign dignitaries and other heads of state. I think there may be some other little events that require your attendance. Phillip has outlined it all for you, I'm sure."
"Yes, Father," Andreas replied.
"And perhaps it would be a good idea for you to attend the events by yourself. We do not need any unnecessary speculation forming about your relationship," his father said.
"What unnecessary speculation are you referring to, Father?"
"You know exactly what I am talking about. We've only just learned about this girl ourselves. How do you think it looks to go running around introducing her as your fiancé when we haven't even had the chance to investigate her and her background?"
"Let me make this clear once and for all. Laila and I are engaged, we are getting married, regardless of what you may think, say or do. I will not hide her or pretend like she doesn't exist, and I certainly will not be attending any of the celebrations without her. So you can either accept that or carry on without me."
"Andreas, what has gotten into you! How dare you speak to your father like that?" his mother said.
"I'm sorry, Father, but I will not be swayed."
The king looked long and hard at Andreas, almost as if he were trying to intimidate him. Seeing no sign of weakness or uncertainty, he relaxed his shoulders and let a small grin escape.
"Very well, my boy. But you better be prepared for the media frenzy you are about to set off."
"Yes, Father. If that will be all, I will be going now," Andreas said.
"Wait, before you go, I'd like to have a private word with you," Frederick added.
Andreas raised an eyebrow at him in question before shrugging his shoulders. It seemed like his family was determined to thwart him.
"All right, let's get it over with," he sighed.
Andreas continued walking away from the dining room out the hallway and entered his father's private study. He crossed the room and sat down on a leather chair by the fireplace. Frederick followed him into the room and took the seat opposite him.
"Well, what is it?" Andreas asked.
"Why don't you tell me?" Frederick replied. "I know you're up to something."
"What would I be up to? Come on now, Freddy. We're not children anymore and I'm not sneaking sweets up from the kitchen."
"You can keep denying it or you can just spit it out and tell me. Either way, I will find out," Frederick said.
"You always were a smug bastard," Andreas said.
The smile he gave his brother took the sting out of his words, but it was a while before Andreas spoke again. He knew his brother would try to handle the situation himself, as he'd always done when they were younger, but Andreas didn't want that. He was not a child any longer and this was his problem to deal with. He didn't want Frederick cleaning up his messes for him as if Andreas was somehow too stupid or too incompetent to fix it himself.
"I got some disturbing news about Henriks yesterday. It seems he's not only been steering contracts towards certain firms that he's been receiving kick backs from, but he's been involved in some unsavory activities."
"He's been what? How long has he been steering the contracts? And why wasn't he found out sooner?"
"As far as I know it's been at least five years. He's been very good at covering his tracks. I only just became suspicious after the Dubai project. We had awarded the project to JBL Global and I later learned that Henriks was instrumental in the decision. On paper, everything looked on the up and up. JBL's bid was the best and they have a solid reputation, but I know they are currently being investigated for bid rigging and fraud."
"Damn! We should have suspected something sooner."
"Henriks is a very clever man. It was only after some serious investigation that I was able to piece everything together."
"So what do you plan to do now? Obviously Henriks cannot be allowed to remain on the board."
"Of course, but right now I'm still gathering evidence. I want an air tight case against him before I proceed. You know how slippery he can be. I don't want to leave him any wiggle room to get out of it."
"That's smart. What about this unsavory business you were talking about?" Frederick asked.
"Ah, that's something far more damning than this whole contract business. If it's true, Henriks should be locked away."
Andreas could see he had piqued Frederick's interest. He sat up straighter and stared straight at Andreas waiting for him to continue.
"I don't know if you know, but Henriks is a partner in an adult film company," Andreas began.
"That's surprising, although now that I think about it, maybe not so much," Frederick said.
"This company is also being investigated for hiring girls who are underage."
Frederick blew out a whistle and shook his head. "That is shocking."
"What is truly shocking is that Henriks himself has often uh...had sex with underage girls," Andreas said baldly.
"You're joking?" Frederick said. "Are you absolutely sure? You have proof?"
"I'm absolutely sure, but still working on solid concrete proof right now."
"Andreas, this is horrible," Frederick said.
He was agitated and rose up from the chair and began pacing in front of the fireplace. "How could we have not known this? All these years we've had to do business with this man, and under it all he has been a predator."
"They say the truly sick ones are the best at covering their tracks. We had no reason to suspect anything because he was very good at hiding his deviancies."
"You can say that again. What are you planning?" Frederick asked.
"I'm not sure yet. I want Henriks gone from our lives with the least amount of hassle as possible."
"That may be the wisest course. We don't want to get our name mixed up in Henriks' illegal activities, especially considering Father's jubilee celebrations and your engagement."
"Yes, perhaps an anonymous tip to the
authorities then?" Andreas mused.
"You do what you think is best. It seems like you've got everything well in hand. Let me know if you need my assistance," Frederick said. He got up from his chair and walked over to Andreas and clapped him on the shoulders. "It's good to have you back. You really have grown up."
"Had to happen sometime," Andreas joked. "Now if you'll excuse me, I have some other matters I need to attend to"
"Yes, of course. I wouldn't want to keep you from Laila any longer.".
"Why Freddy! Have you suddenly got a sense of humor? This is truly amazing."
"Oh get out of here," Frederick said.
Andreas walked out of the room. He didn't need any further encouragement. He'd been itching to see Laila since he left her that morning. He walked back up the stairs and down the long hall on the east end of the building towards their apartments. Andreas stopped outside their bedroom door and put his ear against it to try to hear any sounds of activity. It was dead quiet. He slowly turned the door handle and pushed in the door. Laila was wide awake and sitting on the bed staring at him as he tried to slip into the room.
"Where were you?" she asked.
"At breakfast with my parents and my brother," he said.
"Oh."
"You were sleeping so peacefully, I didn't want to disturb you. Have you been up long?" he asked.
"About half an hour," she said.
"I'm sorry I kept you waiting for so long. I would have been up sooner, but my brother wanted to talk to me. Have you eaten yet?"
"Nope. I've just been wandering these rooms and looking around. It's beautiful by the way," she said waving her hand in front of her to indicate the room.
"Thank you."
"So...uh...what's the plan for the day?" she asked.
"First thing we have to do is get you some breakfast, then we'll go over the schedule," he said.
Andreas walked over to the phone on the night stand and ordered breakfast for her before hanging up. "It should arrive in 15 minutes," he said.
