Royal Heir (Westerly Billionaire #3)(33)

For the first time in his life, Magnus had met a woman he could imagine as queen of Vandorra. She would be a pleasure to bed, she liked children, and she’d said she was at a crossroads in her life. It was at least worth further consideration.

“What are you thinking?” Rachelle asked softly, and Magnus realized he’d been staring at her with a big smile on his face.

Neither of them was ready for where his thoughts had wandered, so he shared a passing idea from earlier. “I was imagining you in a nurse’s uniform, and then in half the uniform, and then in nothing.”

She blushed, then swatted his arm. “Not here. Not with kids around.”

Her words brought a fleeting image of her saying that to him because their own children were in a nearby room. He’d enjoy quietly convincing her that pleasure was worth the risk of waking them.

The ease with which he could picture Rachelle in his life was disconcerting. With his father’s failing health, it was time to start thinking about continuing the royal line. Finding the proper wife and bearing heirs was a fundamental responsibility that could no longer be brushed aside. Despite the public image bashing Rachelle had taken, he was confident his people would embrace her—as long as he introduced her to them properly. The visit to the hospital, even though it was not covered by the press, would be spoken about and would go a long way in winning their approval.

Although there was still a lot to learn about Rachelle, he trusted his instincts in business, and a royal marriage was part business. Anyone who made a vow to him also made a vow to his people. She would have to love them as he did. Not every woman was capable of such devotion.

Rachelle’s unwavering support of her brother demonstrated loyalty and commitment. The more he thought about it, the more he liked the idea of exploring this possibility more intimately.

While Rachelle was temporarily occupied by one of the hospital’s staff, Eric walked over to speak to Magnus. He was still dressed in his formfitting suit. “Finn said that was the last one. I’d hire that kid when he’s older. He’s more organized than half the people I employ.”

From across the hall, Finn waved before disappearing into his room. He’d looked tired but happy. “You gave the children a memory they will treasure for a long time, and for that I am in your debt.” Magnus took out a card and handed it to Eric. “Now do something for yourself. The clinic is attached to this hospital. Go down to the service elevator, and take a left. Dr. Jonas Welsh is waiting to meet you. He will ensure everything is handled discreetly. If a cover story is required for your time there, we can say you are starting a children’s foundation that was inspired by your visit today.”

Eric pocketed the card. “He’s there now?” He glanced over at Rachelle.

Magnus could have avoided the awkward truth, but he always had been a charge-forward-into-battle kind of man. “She knows.”

Anger flared in Eric’s eyes.

In explanation rather than justification, Magnus added, “She deserved the truth. Your sister’s loyalty to you is a gift, not a burden.”

Eric rubbed his hands over his face. “I didn’t want her to worry.”

“She was already worried, now let her be there for you.”

“I don’t understand why you’re doing this. Nobody does something for nothing. What did you say yesterday? You want to help me so Finn and Rachelle won’t be hurt. Well, Finn has met me now, so all that’s left is Rachelle. Are you hoping that she’ll stay here if I do?”

“She will stay, regardless.”

“You are one cocky bastard.”

“Let’s not start slinging insults—I am in a good mood.”

Eric’s eyes narrowed. “I’ve gotten to a place where I don’t care about much, but I care about Rachelle. If you hurt her—”

“I know—you’ll kill me. You want to scare me? Go get your shit together; then come for me. Right now you’re too easy a target.”

“Fuck you.”

“You disappoint me, Eric.” Magnus straightened to his full height. “Life is full of allies and enemies. Learn to recognize the difference.”

“You’re my ally?”

“I’m not your enemy.” Magnus sighed. “And right now you’re more at risk of hurting your sister than I am. She’s here because she loves you. You can piss on that or you can be grateful that you have someone like her in your life. It’s your choice.”

Eric frowned and folded his arms across his chest. He still looked conflicted when Rachelle rejoined them.

Unaware of the conversation’s direction, Rachelle was all smiles. “I don’t know about the two of you, but I’m ready to call today a success. Now we’re off to meet King Tadeas. What a day, huh, Eric?” When neither Magnus nor Eric smiled, she cocked her head to one side, and her forehead furrowed. “What did I miss?”

“I’m not going with you to meet the king,” Eric said.

“Why not?” Rachelle asked, her voice rising with concern.

The awkwardness of his movements looked out of place for a man in a superhero suit. “I have an appointment to keep.”

“Do you want me to come with you?”

He smiled. “No, but I do want you in my life. I need to sort a few things out, but I’m glad you’re here.”