Player's Princess (A Royal Sports Romance)(60)

"Princess?" Mavra says. "You're turning red."

"I'm fine."

"You haven't touched your eggs."

"Oh, right."

I poke them with my fork and let the toast soak up the yolks. That is my favorite part. I eat the poached eggs off the top and then eat up the yolk-soaked bread, pushing the last few pieces around the plate to make sure I get the last of it, and savor it.

Yawning, I trudge back upstairs. I woke early, planning to shower before class. I ignore the shower cap hanging by the bath and undo my braid before stepping inside.

Several more leaves fall on the floor, and I pluck them into the garbage can. Where did they all come from? I shake my head to see if there are any more, and then step under the water.

I could soak for hours. In fact, I would like to draw a bath, but there is no time. I can only give my hair a quick wash and don’t even bother with conditioner. After I dry it, I step out and run across the hall wrapped in a towel to finish drying and dress.

As I have every morning since this began, I check The Royal Exposé website. The lead story is another about Prince Liam and his antics with his new wife. I dismiss it and finish readying myself for my day.

I can no longer contain myself.

Anastasia: Jason?

Jason: Wat.

He omits the h purposely, I think.

Jason: I was asleep sorry you wore me out.

I giggle.

Anastasia: If that tires you out, I am going to exhaust you later Jason: Tonight?

Anastasia: Take me somewhere I don't care where.

Jason: I'll take you where they treat you like royalty.

I quirk my eye at that and stuff my phone back in my pocket before Bjorn gives me the evil eye. He and Thorlief wait patiently for me in the foyer.

Yawning, I walk to my first class. Today it is easier to pay attention, though I am still so excited I want to bounce at my seat.

There is a spring in my step in the halls after class. The other students stare at me, exchange looks with each other, gossip. I feel a sense of foreboding as I realize they may be talking about me and Jason. I force myself still, make my expression neutral, and approach the rest of the day like a battle. I must keep my emotions in check.

If Bjorn suspects, he says nothing. Thorlief knows, and it only seems to set his jaw harder. The poor man is going to eat his own teeth if he doesn't stop.

Jason's cryptic text burns on my phone every time I look at it. I must glance at it quickly, hiding the action from Bjorn without looking like I'm hiding something.

The day begins to drag. When I am finally released, I send a text to Jason.

At practice. Text when I'm done. Slip away?

I frown. I can probably slip out even before dark, but if I do, I will most likely be spotted leaving the house. Unless someone can distract the others for me. I glance at Thorlief, mulling over asking him. For the rest of the day I hold my tongue.

When my last class ends, I head straight home, just like any other day, but my heart is swelling in my chest. I think of Jason with every step, imagine him walking with me, think of his voice and touch.

I'm smitten. Just the idea of him makes me grin like a fool, and I wish I didn’t have to care who sees me. Why can't I just be in love?

As I enter the house, singing an old tune I remember Mother singing when I was a little girl, I feel like I'm floating, lighter than air.

Thorlief knocks on my door while I'm studying.

"You're up to something," he declares quietly as he enters.

"I have to see him tonight. I need you to make sure no one knows I am gone. I will be leaving before dark, I think."

"You ask me to aid you in this now."

I stand up and look at him, hard.

"I have made my choice. It is only a week."

"It won't only be a week. I already know. I can see it in your eyes, little princess."

I sigh.

"Whatever it is, to stop now would be to tear my heart from my chest. Do you not see?"

"I see, and that is what I fear most."

I look down. "So you won't help."

"Of course I will help. Princess, I would give my life to protect you, you know that. You may be drawing yourself now into something no one can protect you from."

I nod. "I understand, but if I don't, I will regret it forever. I would rather have this time than never know."

"Very well. I will keep my idiot comrade busy. Go when you like."

I smile. "Thank you, Thorlief."

"Don't thank me yet."

He turns and heads downstairs.

I scurry to finish my homework so I will have more time with Jason. Ultimately, I must force myself to go slower, pay attention, and make sure I avoid any mistakes with the mathematics. When it is finished, I tuck it in the folders and pace my bedroom.

Jason: Done practice. Head to house. See you there. Big plans tonight. Stay in with me? Movie?

Anastasia: Yes!

I dress simply and clamber out the window and down the porch roof. I peer over the edge to make sure no one is watching before I run across the yard, leap the fence, land on my feet and hands, and sprint for Jason's house. I run full tilt, until I'm winded and grinning.

His housemate opens the door.

"Forgive me, which one are you?" I ask him.

"Akele. You'll learn to tell us apart, pretty princess. Come on in before somebody sees you."