His Royal Request: Royals of Lochland Book I

by Mulliner, Brittney

  Ronan shot me a look like he didn’t believe me. “If you really like her and this isn’t some passing fling. How have you not told her the truth?”

  I shot him a look that made it clear he would pay later for not backing me up.

  “It didn’t come up.” I bit out each word.

  “How?” Ronan was just challenging me now for fun.

  I glared at him.

  “How did you explain George and the plane and the palace?”

  “I told her I was in business and I was visiting Ireland for some meetings.”

  “You met her in Ireland?” Cian roared.

  I closed my eyes. “Yes.”

  Ronan laughed and I looked up to see Cian looking at me with a mixture of confusion and rage.

  “You need to start explaining.”

  I sighed and gave in. “Charlie and I did meet recently.”

  “In Ireland?” Cian confirmed.

  “Yes.”

  “So yesterday?” Ronan laughed.

  I clenched my jaw. “It’s been two days.” It felt like so much more than that. If only I could make them understand how much had changed in that short time. How we’d come to understand each other.

  “You brought a stranger with you to the palace?” Ronan practically shouted. “Mum is going to murder you.”

  I rolled my eyes. “That’s why I’m not telling her.”

  He shook his head and laughed. “I’m so glad it’s not me in trouble this time.”

  “What have you done, Aiden?” Cian’s disappointed voice annoyed me.

  “Look, I really like Charlie. When the time came for me to leave, I couldn’t go without her. I wanted more time to get to know her. I want to see what can happen.”

  Ronan’s eyebrows shot up. “You’ve never really liked anyone.”

  I nodded. “I know. That’s why I had to bring her.”

  “So, this is all fake?” Cian questioned. “You told all of us that you were bringing your girlfriend. Someone you were serious about.”

  I shrugged. “I am serious about getting to know her more.”

  “But why not just tell us she’s a friend?” Cian asked.

  “Because I didn’t want anyone trying to set me up this week. I thought people would leave us alone if they thought we were serious.”

  Ronan smirked. “It’s not a horrible plan, but people are going to be curious.”

  I nodded. “I know and I was hoping you guys would help deter them.”

  They both glared.

  “I have this week to get to know Charlie,” I said. “Just a few days to figure out if there could be anything between us.”

  Ronan was the first to speak. “Why just this week?”

  “Because she was in Ireland to start traveling through Europe. After this week she wants to continue with her plans.” I left out the part about the money. I didn't want them getting the wrong impression.

  Cian scowled. “I don’t have a good feeling about this—”

  I didn’t think Cian would react well to this.

  “—but I’ll do what I can to give you guys a chance.”

  I was stunned. I didn’t expect him to be supportive, at least not without a lot more begging.

  “Yeah, I’ll do what I can,” Ronan said with a nod.

  “But you have to tell her the truth.” Cian gave me a look that instantly reminded me of our dad when he scolded us as children. “You can’t pull it off for much longer.”

  “I know. I’m telling her in the morning.”

  He raised an eyebrow. “She won’t make a scene.”

  It wasn’t a question. It was a command, coming from the crown prince, not my brother. I’d learned the difference over the years.

  “Of course.”

  Cian walked past me and off to presumably another boring meeting. As redundant as some meetings for LochEnergy could get, I’d never trade to be in his place. Discussing trade agreements and keeping the peace in parliament councils sounded like torture.

  7

  Charlie

  I should have been nervous about leaving with Isla. But just like with her brother, I felt calm. Something about this family grounded me. They were so easy to be around. It helped that George was still driving us around.

  “Where are we heading?” I asked while I watched the rolling green hills blur as we passed.

  “I have a few stores in town that I normally go to when I need dresses for events.”

  I eyed her manicured nails and spa-smooth skin. “Do you go to fancy weddings often?”

  She paused and seemed to hesitate. “More often than I’d like.”

  I nodded and looked back out the window when we turned onto a busy street with shops and people walking along the sidewalk.

  It looked similar to Galway with cute hand-painted signs above each business and the buildings pushed against one another. George parked in front of a chic looking shop with a black and white exterior. A small window displayed dresses.

  “Come on,” Isla urged. Her eyes flashed with excitement, which was infectious.

  I followed Isla out and she rushed into the store. I looked back to see George smile and nod at me. He wasn’t coming in but his close presence was reassuring.

  Isla immediately went to a rack of brightly colored dresses. She pulled a light purple dress out and held it up for me to see. “This would be good for the garden party tomorrow.”

  I took the hanger from her and touched the fabric. It was light chiffon with cap sleeves and looked like it would end just below my knees. It was simple and beautiful and if she said it would work, I had to trust her. I wasn’t used to attending parties or fancy dinners. I was jeans and a t-shirt girl. “Great.”

  She paused, her hands hovering over the rack, and looked at me. “Just like that?”

  I shrugged. “Yeah. If you think it will be appropriate.”

  Her left eyebrow rose just a few millimeters. “So, you’ll wear what I suggest. No arguments?”

  “This is a bit out of my comfort zone.” I waved a hand around the store. “I’m going to need some guidance.”

  Slowly, her smile grew. “I won’t lead you astray, don’t worry.”

  I wasn’t sure why but if it made her happy, I had no problem letting her style me.

  I looked around and noticed an employee hanging back near the fitting rooms. I smiled at her and she tilted her head in acknowledgment. I wondered why she wasn’t approaching us but I remembered this was one of Isla’s favorite stores. Maybe they knew she liked to pick out her own clothes.

  “Charlie!” I heard a gasp and rushed over to where Isla had wandered off.

  Isla held up a grey-blue gown. It swept the floor and had a lace bodice and sleeves with a silk skirt. It was breath-taking and probably more expensive than everything I owned, combined. I reached out to touch it and sighed when I felt the lush fabric.

  “This is gorgeous.”

  Isla beamed. “This is the dress for the wedding. We just have to find a hat to match.”

  I took the dress from her as she held it out and turned it around to see the back. It was sheer with crystal closures down to the skirt. This was worthy of a royal wedding.

  By the time I caught up to Isla she had three more dresses picked out.

  “I found a few for dinners and other events we’ll be attending this week. If you run out, we can come back.”

  Exactly how many events would take place this week? I was under the impression I was just showing up for the wedding, but Isla made it seem like there would be something different every day.

  Before I could respond she was walking toward the fitting rooms. The employee from before had disappeared so Isla had free-reign to hang up the dresses and point me to the first room.

  “I want to see all of them even if you don’t love it,” Isla said. “I need to get a sense of your style and what fits you best.”

  She seemed to have already done that but I just agreed and locked the door behind me. I picked up the pur
ple dress first, wanting to hold out on the gown until the very last. I knew nothing would top it so I didn’t want to be disappointed after taking it off.

  I slipped it over my head and smiled as the silky fabric fell over my body. This was nicer than any dress I’d ever worn. I searched for a price tag but failed. Liza always told me there were some places where if you had to ask the price you couldn't afford it.

  This was definitely one of those places. I forced the thought out of my mind. I felt terrible that Aiden would be footing the bill, but he assured me it was fine. I had a feeling a shopping trip was nothing compared to the private jet we’d used.

  I turned from side to side admiring how flattering the dress was. Even though it was relatively simple, the fabric and cut screamed luxury. I opened the door and stood in the middle of the secluded sitting area surrounded by mirrors. Isla was sitting on an ivory, velvet chaise with a perfect view to scrutinize each dress.

  She hummed and slowly smiled. “That’s lovely.”

  My own smiled grew as I ran my hands over the skirt. “It’s so soft.”

  She laughed. “Are there pockets?”

  I searched for them and shook my head.

  “Darn. Those are always my favorite.”

  I laughed. “Mine too.”

  “Well, that is a definite yes. I’ll make sure we get a fascinator for it as well. You can wear it to one of the outdoor events.”

  “A what?” I asked.

  “A fascinator. A headpiece or hat?” She gestured to her head.

  I nodded and pretended like this was a completely normal conversation to be having. “Right, of course.” I drew in a breath. “How many events are there?”

  She paused like she was thinking it through. “There’s the garden party at the palace, the family dinner the night before the wedding, then the wedding and reception that night. Though there might be some other dinners or gatherings through the week.”

  “You seem so used to this. Is this not the first royal wedding you’ve been to?”

  Her lips twisted into a smirk. “I’ve been to a few.”

  Huh. Maybe this was more normal for Europeans. They were nonchalant about things like this because it wasn’t a rarity like it was for an American. Her relaxed attitude helped me settle a bit. Maybe this wasn’t as big of a deal as I was making it out to be.

  “Okay, show me the next one.”

  I went back into the room and scanned the dresses. A dove gray sheath dress with a defined waist that created pleats above and below stood out to me. It looked so classy, yet feminine. I changed into it quickly and sighed. It hit right at my knees and the short sleeves made me feel so poised and regal. Like I could stand next to Aiden with my head held high.

  I opened the door and stood in the center of the mirrors.

  Isla looked me up and down then motioned for me to turn. “With some pumps and your hair pulled back a bit this would be stunning.” She paused. “You’re beautiful, Charlie.”

  I could feel my chest swell with the compliment. “Thank you.” I smiled looked at my reflection. In this dress, I felt beautiful.

  I slipped on the pink dress with deep purple flowers next. It had long sleeves with a collar and bow at the neck. The skirt fell just past my knee. It looked like the perfect dress to twirl in. Before heading out I indulged in a quick spin and smiled as the skirt flared out. This would be perfect for the garden party.

  I stepped out and did a few twists so Isla could get the full effect. “I love this one,” I said.

  She laughed. “I do too.”

  “Do you think I can wear it to the garden party?”

  “It’s lovely, but something a bit more formal would be best.”

  I nodded, grateful I had her here. “Do you think there’s anything this would be appropriate for?”

  She grinned. “We can figure out something.”

  “Okay.” Before going back to the fitting room, I did one more spin, making Isla giggle.

  I scanned the rack looking for something that would be more formal, but still appropriate to wear outside. I settled on a pale-yellow lace dress. Once it was on, hugging all of my curves without being too form-fitting, I fell in love.

  I took a breath and stepped out, hoping I’d get the right reaction from Isla. She looked up and instantly a grin appeared. “That’s perfect.”

  I relaxed and looked at my reflection from all angles. I swear these dresses were magic. They covered everything I normally complained about and flattered my best features. Who knew there were dresses out there this perfect?

  “I really love this,” I said.

  She nodded. “It’s just right. Now, I put a peach one in there I want you to try for the wedding.”

  I was a bit confused. “I thought that was what the blue gown was for.”

  “That’s for the reception. At the wedding, you’ll want to go a bit more understated.”

  “I’m so grateful you’re here, Isla. I had no idea what I was thinking when I agreed to come.”

  “It can be a bit overwhelming, especially when you’ve had no time to prepare.”

  I bit my lip. “Yesterday I was planning on staying in Galway for a few days before heading home, but then I met Aiden and everything changed.”

  Her eyes widened and I realized I’d made a horrible mistake.

  “I knew it!” She wasn’t angry like I’d been expecting. She just started laughing. “Oh, what has my brother gotten himself into this time?”

  I was frozen. I’d been here for a few hours and I’d already ruined things. “Isla, please. I didn’t mean to—”

  “Oh sweetie, don’t worry. Your secret is safe with me. If Aiden brought you there has to be a good reason.”

  “You’re not mad?”

  She waved that off. “Of course not. I knew something suspicious was going on when Aiden called me and told me he was bringing you here. I didn’t know he was dating anyone, but that’s because you guys just met.” She shook her head. “What’s in this for you? I can’t imagine you’d subject yourself to this if you weren’t benefitting somehow.”

  I looked at the ground wishing it would open up and swallow me whole. “I’m here traveling on my own. I was about to change my flights and go home early because I realized I didn’t have enough money to make it through Europe when I met Aiden. He offered to show me a bit of Ireland on his way back to Galway before leaving. Then he asked me to come to Lochland with him for a family wedding. He said if I came with him, he’d fund the rest of my trip.”

  Her smile died. “So, he’s paying you.”

  I dropped my head. “I know it sounds bad, but he just kept assuring me it was going to be okay.”

  She stood and grabbed my hands. “Oh no. I think it’s great he could help you with your trip. Good for you! I’m just a bit shocked and more entertained that my brother had to pay someone to be his date.”

  She started laughing and I eventually joined in. “It sounds horrible when you say it like that!”

  Her eyes gleamed. “You’ve given me quite the secret, Charlie.”

  “Oh no. Please don’t tell him I told you. Our relationship was supposed to be a secret. For appearances’ sake, we’re a couple.”

  She winked. “Don’t worry. I won’t out you, but once this is over, I’ll be teasing Aiden for years to come.”

  “Can you do me a favor? Please don’t tell him I slipped.”

  She shook her head. “Of course not. I promise I won’t say anything.”

  “Thank you.”

  I took a step away when she caught my elbow. “I may tease my brother for this, but I want you to know one thing. He’s seldom brought a girl home. It isn’t required for him to have a date to these functions.” She paused. “He must like you a lot. Have you considered that?”

  I hadn’t thought about that. I’d assumed dates were a requirement or there were some people he wanted off his back about being single, but could Isla be right? Like me, had Aiden not wanted our time together to
end?

  “Thanks, Isla.”

  She smiled. “I’ll be right by your side through this week. I’m not quite sure of his reasons, but my brother wanted you here and I want to make sure you survive. If you ever get lost or don’t know what to do, just look to me. I’ll help you.”

  I tried to not pin high hopes on her words, though they made me feel much better. I thanked her and went back to the fitting room. Aiden and I had some things to discuss as soon as I saw him.

  8

  Aiden

  I was stunned later in the afternoon when Mauve, my maid, knocked at my office door to let me know my aunt and uncle were back, requesting tea. I hurried to freshen myself up and change my shirt before rushing down to the garden behind dad’s office. It was my mum’s preferred spot for tea and I knew we’d be gathering there as we traditionally did.

  When I joined the tea party, I greeted my aunt and uncle. “Douglas, Evelyn, so good to see you.”

  They stood as I approached. My uncle was an imposing man, much like my dad, his brother. He wasn’t as grey-haired as his brother, though. Something he enjoyed pointing out whenever they saw each other. Evelyn was a petite woman with a permanent smile and a stock of red curls that bounced around her shoulders. I shook my uncle’s hand and kissed my aunt on the cheek.

  “Good to see you, Aiden. You’re looking sharp.” That was my uncle’s favorite compliment.

  “Thank you, Douglas.” I sat next to Ronan and nodded. “Where’s Cian?”

  Ronan smiled politely but I could see the annoyance in his eyes. “In a meeting, he’ll be here as soon as possible.”

  Mum had warned all of us to clear our schedules this week for the wedding. I was pushing it by arriving home today, but at least I was here to greet guests as they arrived. Cian was being rude by not being here, especially as the crown prince. He was acting on behalf of Dad’s in his absence. When the queen and king were out of the palace, the princes were expected to be available.

  I turned to my aunt and uncle. “How were your travels?”