I decided, after much debate with myself, to remove this as a second chapter from my story No Regrets and create a whole new story line. The lovely review from Margarita Rosa on No Regrets helped me make this final decision. I hope everyone enjoys these little ficlets as I write them, and feel free to suggest who should come next.
I wish I did own these characters.
She still finds it a bit startling when she thinks back on it, although she has at last accepted the sentiment.
It had been the night before the royal wedding, and everyone had been stopping by the prince's rooms to wish him well or give advice. She herself had been running later than she'd meant to be, as she'd spent most of the early evening with the Yamani princess. By the time she'd reached Roald's rooms, only Neal and his highness were there.
Not wishing to tire him out the night before his wedding, she had made to give her regards and leave when he had stopped her. Shyly, he had asked if she would go over some of the Yamani customs and aspects that had been included in the ceremony. She had readily agreed, knowing his true need had been support from his friends rather than an explanation of customs. She had walked him through them, Neal as well, until the time had made her call a halt. It would have done no good for her to teach him this, she'd told him, if he was too tired to go through with it.
He'd reluctantly agreed, and she and Neal had begun to make their way out. She had just gotten to the door when she'd felt a hand on her arm. Neal had paused at her own sudden stop, but upon seeing the prince's hand on her arm, had merely winked at her and had gone on his way. She'd turned to look up at Roald, had noticed a strange light in his eyes. She'd opened her mouth, but before she had gotten the question out, she'd felt the prince's lips on hers.
The kiss had been gentle, not invasive even as it had been lingering. Long seconds had passed before his lips had left hers, and he'd pulled her close then, his breath on her cheek.
Thank you, Kel, he'd said quietly. If you hadn't taught me to love you first, I'd never learn to love Shinko.
Neal's only comment on the whole situation had been an inquiry as to why it had taken his highness so long.