Chapter 12

Harrison was returning from the Guardians’ training unit when he nearly ran over Angeline walking through the servants’ passageways. He had no doubt why she was discreetly using the private corridors through the palace, but he wondered why she was alone.

“Forgive me, Angie,” Harrison said as he gripped both her arms to stop himself from running into her.

Angeline laughed in response. “No apologies are needed, Harry.”

Harrison stood there, bewitched by her shiny bronze eyes, forgetting that he was still wearing his combat clothing, which was the reason he had chosen this private route to begin with. He blinked a few times and cleared his thoughts. “Are those young men still prowling around the palace?”

Angeline smiled. “Indeed.”

“Tell me you aren’t the only one that got away. Has Lizzy fallen prey to their foolishness?”

“Certainly not. Lady Allestaine invited her and me to join her on a trip into the city today. I opted out of the tempting invitation, as I knew it would be more pleasant for Elizabeth to spend this time alone with her mother.”

“That is very generous of you. And it is a pity you are unable to roam freely throughout the palace for fear of being harassed,” Harrison said. “Allow me to extend an invitation to join me for a horseback ride. Perhaps that will offer you a change of scenery.”

“That sounds marvelous.”

“Very well, then. If it is agreeable with you, I shall retrieve you from your chambers after I have changed into my proper attire and notified Javian to saddle our horses.”

“I will see you then,” she responded. With a quick curtsy, Angeline brushed past Harrison, leaving him to continue his journey to his private rooms.

Once changed, Harrison paid a short visit to the command center to inform Vincent that he would be leaving the palace for the afternoon. A servant was dispatched to instruct Javian to saddle the horses, and nothing was left but to retrieve Angeline and rescue her from the young men pestering her at the palace. He hopped up the steps to the second floor and strode quickly through the corridors toward Angeline’s rooms.

Harrison was surprised to see Angeline answer her door instead of her maiden after he knocked briefly. “Angie?”

“Harrison?” she bantered with a laugh.

“Well, it is clear that you are ready to leave the palace without wasting any time.” He offered his arm. “Shall we?”

As they walked toward where the horses awaited them, they encountered the group of young men at the stables. “They all leave tomorrow, correct?” he asked Angeline.

She laughed. “Yes, I believe so.”

Saracen was the only Guardian horse amongst the other saddled horses awaiting their riders. Harrison sighed as he watched the young men trying to interact with his massive black stallion. Touch the steed, and lose a hand, Harrison thought as he sensed the irritation radiating from his horse.

“I see you have all taken my advice and decided to involve yourselves in more masculine ventures,” Harrison called out upon his approach. The young men glanced back, yet said nothing in return. They walked away from Saracen, trying to ignore Harrison and Angeline’s approach.

Harrison led Angeline over to the white horse that was saddled for her. The group of men stood a distance away, and Harrison felt their gazes on him and Angeline. This should give them something to brood over while we’re gone, he thought in humor, knowing it would create gossip in the palace.

As he helped Angeline at the mounting block, Javian approached. “Master Harrison, may I have a word with you before you depart?”

Once Angeline was on her horse and settled, Harrison turned back to Javian. “What is it, Javian?”

“Sir, I understand you have been extremely busy, but I wanted you to know your mare is close to birthing her foal.”

Harrison laughed and clapped Javian on his shoulder. “That is excellent news. Have you any idea when we might expect our new colt?”

Javian grinned. “I would say no later than tomorrow evening. Also, it appears that Emperor Levi may see his new foal soon as well. I am hoping his mare will wait for him and the empress to return. Her Royal Majesty seemed very excited that the mares would be giving birth soon.”

“Why does that not surprise me?” Harrison turned to walk toward Saracen. “Just wait until Arrow sires one of the foals; she will probably let it live in the palace with all of us.”

Javian chuckled, and then turned to leave Harrison to mount his horse. Once on Saracen, he guided him over to where the young men stared at him darkly. Without hesitation, Angeline brought her horse alongside of Saracen.

“Gentlemen, I am curious. Your horses are saddled, but you are not riding them? Are you waiting for riding lessons?”

Luke Maxen stepped forward arrogantly. “Forgive me if I am out of line, Your Grace, but it almost sounds as though you have a problem with all of us.”

Harrison grinned. “That is positively absurd. I do not have a problem with all of you; my problem, Your Grace, is with only you. I do not like you or your attitude, nor do I appreciate the way you treat the servants in our home. Now that we have cleared that up, allow me to issue you a proper warning to stay away from my cousin, Princess Elizabeth.”

“I do not take orders from you.”

Harrison’s eyes narrowed. “This is not your domain, little duke. You are in the Royal Family of Pemdas’ home, and you should guard your words and your actions wisely. If I should hear another word from anyone about any additional disrespect or impudence on your part, you will face the consequence of doing so.” He pulled his foot out of its stirrup, smiled, and pressed the heel of his boot into Luke Maxen’s chest. The unexpected gesture was not meant to inflict pain, but to make the boy stumble backward.

As Luke lost his balance and fell back into the soft mud behind him, Harrison nodded. “Let that be my final warning, you stubborn young fool,” he finished as he pulled back on the reins, backing Saracen away from the group.

“Good day, then,” Harrison said before he and Angeline rode swiftly away from the palace.

They raced along the banks of Pasidian River for nearly an hour before Harrison directed Saracen toward a large meadow surrounded by a grove of trees. They dismounted their horses and allowed them to wander off to graze freely in the meadow.

Harrison and Angeline spent the next hour or so in casual conversation, most of which consisted of Angeline updating Harrison on her years of growing up. She sat upright next to him as he reclined lazily on his side facing her, captivated by the many attractive and animated expressions that crossed her face. Being away from the formalities of the palace, she seemed to open up more, and it was refreshing to watch her as she told him stories about her adolescence. Her amusement was undeniably contagious, and Harrison had never felt as contented in any woman’s company.

“I still cannot believe that our Harry is the commanding officer of all the Guardians,” Angeline said as she plucked a flower from the tall grass.

“Is this a bad thing?” Harrison returned with a mischievous grin.

Angeline arched a knowing eyebrow at him. “Well...” She trailed off in a teasing voice

Harrison smirked. “Well? What?” he said with a laugh.

“Well…it is not a bad thing, if I should choose to forget the Harrison Oxley that I grew up with,” she returned playfully.

“Indeed? Well, it is quite obvious that I am still the strapping man you grew up with. I believe that not only have my handsome features increased with age, but my profound knowledge and wisdom has as well,” Harrison returned smugly.

Angeline tilted her head to the side, studying him. “You are certainly the most arrogant man I know!” she returned with a laugh. “But on a more serious note, I will say after the battle of Armedias and the burial of Emperor Navarre, I have noticed a significant change in you, my friend. I also know that guarding The Key on Earth and becoming the Commander of the Guardians have always been some of your greatest desires.”

Harrison also plucked a vibrant yellow flower and handed it to her. “And you, Angeline Hamilton—what is your greatest desire? You are nearing the age where one might start fulfilling those wishes.”

Angeline touched the flower to the tip of his nose. “I wish I could say that I was the perfect princess who had her entire life mapped out, but I must admit that I do not.”

“The Princess of Sandari Kingdom has no idea what she wants out of life?” Harrison said dramatically. “This is, without a doubt, disturbing news, and one that some would believe to be shameful.” He cocked an eyebrow, feigning reproach.

Angeline tucked a lock of curly auburn hair behind her ear and rolled her eyes. “Unfortunately, there will be rumors flying around that King Hamilton’s daughter is wildly out of her mind. She has no desire to sit around her father’s estate all day, join the ladies in the sitting rooms, or assume the proper role of a future queen.”

“The Sandari Kingdom will likely fall due to this.” Harrison’s brow creased as he shook his head. “We must inform the emperor that there is no future for our favorite kingdom.”

Angeline laughed. “Yes, we must!”

Angeline’s eyes locked onto Harrison’s, and though she went on, he heard nothing more. He was entranced by the very essence of this moment with Angeline. The wind whipped through the tall grass that surrounded them and enhanced the splendor of the woman sitting in front of him. Her personality was delightful; she was proper and graceful, and her excellent sense of humor and charming wit were unlike any he had ever encountered.

Eventually, the questions turned back to Harrison. Angeline was fascinated by his service on Earth and the privilege that he and Levi shared in protecting Reece. She strongly desired to hear more of what Earth was like, and he could see in her eyes that she longed to visit the planet one day.

“So television…” Angeline’s brow creased in concentration. “I am trying to imagine what that must be like. You say there are humans who portray a life that is not theirs, and it is watched on a screen where the fictitious story appears to be real?”

“In a way, yes. Those humans you are referring to are known as actors.” Harrison grinned. “It is very similar to attending a live event where our talented people portray individuals in books we have read on the theatrical stage. Although, when those on Earth use their technology, the television can become quite entertaining.”

“That is interesting,” she answered. “Do many on Earth enjoy this?”

Harrison laughed. “Most have a great interest in the technology. It is their favorite pastime, and there are at least two or three televisions in an average household.”

Angeline’s lips twisted. “Do you think Reece misses the ability to watch television? We do not have anything like that in Pemdas.”

Harrison coughed out a laugh. “While guarding Reece on Earth, we learned quickly that she wasn’t engrossed with entertaining herself with television.” He glanced past Angeline. “Which makes perfect sense as to why she never complained about missing that technology.”

“How would she pass her time?” Angeline asked, intrigued.

Harrison sighed. “Let me just say that Levi and I grew extremely tired of coffee shops and learning about Earth’s medical practices.”

Angeline laughed. “Do you believe she misses her life on Earth?”

Harrison grew somber. “She lost everything when she lost her father. We watched her suppress the grief of his death. It took great strength for her to flee from her hometown and take up residence in a new place. In ignoring her grief, we watched her fight instead. She excelled brilliantly in college and medical school, but she wasn’t entirely whole without her father in her life.”

Angeline’s expression changed to that of sorrow. “How awful to be all alone in such a big world,” she answered.

Harrison nodded. “She managed well enough. Seeing her live her life firsthand for so many years, I can honestly say that I could not be happier that Levi was the one to give her something to live for again.”

“Who would have ever believed a woman would catch Levi’s interest in such a way.”

“Indeed!” Harrison chuckled.

Angeline folded her arms. “I will admit, I have never seen Levi so undeniably happy until I first saw him with Reece at my family’s ball.”

Harrison smirked, plucked a stone from the ground, and tossed it out toward the trees. “Yes. He is quite the sappy romantic man these days.”

Angeline nudged Harrison. “Harry! How dare you say that?”

Harrison’s eyebrows shot up. “It is a fact! Believe me, when Levi thought he lost Reece for good, he was the most miserable man I have ever kept company with.” Harrison shook his head. “I only knew of one way to fix his misery at the time, and that involved arranging romantic escapades for him and Reece to enjoy on Earth.” He looked at Angeline and sighed. “My excellent plans to renew their love nearly had me strangling both of them during that visit.”

“Something deep inside of me tells me that you probably deserved it,” Angeline said as she tried to cover a laugh.

Harrison eyed her. “Once again, someone finds humor while I was tortured beyond belief!”

Angeline burst into laughter but managed to quickly compose herself. “In order to end our rude gossiping and you insulting your emperor and empress, allow me to change the subject. What is your—”

Every sense of casualness left him as he studied the charming woman in front of him. “You have definitely grown up to be a lovely young woman, Angeline,” he said, cutting her off mid-sentence.

The interruption seemed to shock her, but he didn’t care. He had no idea what it was she was saying at the time, as he was more taken with her at that moment than with her words.

Angeline’s cheeks lightly colored, and she looked down. Harrison grinned uncertainly, knowing he had created an awkward moment. He thought he should probably change the subject. He stood up and extended his hand to her. “Come. Let me show you my and Levi’s favorite tree to climb when we were boys.”

Angeline quickly recovered and smiled. She took his hand and rose up. He walked them into the grove of trees, and they came to the largest one, which had a trunk over five feet wide. He looked up at the many large branches and remembered climbing and swinging joyfully amongst them.

“Wow!” Angeline said as she gazed up into the magnificent tree.

Harrison laughed. “This tree must be thousands of years old. I believe I may have broken nearly every bone in my body at some point in my childhood as a result of playing in this tree.”

“You were always quite the daring young man. You always seemed to have acquired some form of an injury whenever you were around.” She laughed. “Do you remember the time when you broke your ribs falling from the bridge at our house and our parents were so upset with you?”

Harrison shook his head. “I believe I was the only child in Pemdas who always received punishment instead of sympathy in return for his injuries.”

Angeline leaned back against the tree and gazed up. “I remember telling you that I loved you, even if your parents did not.” She looked at Harrison and laughed. “I was so little. It seemed to me that if your parents would not comfort you after such an accident, they most certainly did not love you.”

Harrison stared intently into her eyes, utterly lost in them. Slowly he approached her, and her smile faded. His lips curved up on one side as his hand came slowly up to touch the softness of her face. He watched as she swallowed hard in response to his tender touch. “I remember you telling me that when you grew up, I would be the only man you would ever marry.”

She inhaled deeply as the back of his fingers traced along the softness of her face. Even if he wanted to, he couldn’t have resisted the temptation to touch her and feel the silkiness of her skin. Never once had a woman influenced him in such a way. He couldn’t think sensibly as he stared down at her tempting lips; the overwhelming desire to place his own upon them was inexorable. He breathed deeply, struggling to maintain his discipline. If this was wrong, certainly Angeline would give him an indication.

She stood with her back pressed into the tree, helpless against Harrison’s seductive touch. He looked into her eyes for reassurance. Her breathing picked up as her striking bronze eyes gazed longingly into his. She appeared as exhilarated by this moment as he was.

“I have never kissed a man before,” she innocently admitted.

She softly laughed, embarrassed by the forthrightness of her confession. Her declaration didn’t help Harrison’s resolve, for now he was losing all sense of self-control. He knew very well that he should walk away, but she was intoxicating. His other hand came up and tenderly embraced the base of her neck. “We can easily change that,” he said in a low voice.

Fully expecting her to reject his advances toward her, he remained entranced by the look she gave him. Angeline must have wanted him to do this. She only waited for him because she so innocently didn’t know where to start. As both of his hands gently cradled her head, he fought against this next urge. Harrison, don’t! he demanded of himself, but it was too late.

Then his lips were on hers, slowly and gently pressing against them. Her hands held onto each of his sides as his lips played against hers, wanting more from their kiss. Her breathing was fast as he left moist kisses along the lines of her alluring mouth. He slowly continued, feeling her lips move softly against his in return. He continued to lead her every move, while ardently waiting for her to accept the passionate kiss he was desperately wanting.

Harrison brought his cheek to hers. “Do not fear, Angie; it is only a kiss,” he breathlessly whispered into her ear. Unexpectedly, Angeline wrapped her arms tightly around his waist, drawing him closer to her. Harrison smiled appreciatively before he pressed forward with the passionate kiss he was waiting to give her. She softly moaned with pleasure, spurring him on. At first, his hand slowly caressed her cheek, guiding her and leading her. Harrison was so caught up with her innocent, yet affectionate kiss that he had no control over anything anymore. All sensibility had left him, and he yearned for more.

His hands left her face, searching more of her perfect body. His lips left hers, wanting to taste more of her delicate skin. Wild with passion and desire, Harrison pursued more of this perfect woman for his own satisfaction. His mouth moved hungrily along her décolletage, and it still wasn’t enough. So caught up was he with the passion of this daring moment, Harrison barely heard Angeline call out to him.

“Harrison—” she exhaled. “Please—” she softly moaned.

Unable to think of anything but the breathless sound of her pleas for him, he brought his lips to her throat while his sturdy hands tried to find the buttons on the back of her dress. At that moment, a sharp pain pierced through the top of his boot, nearly collapsing him where he stood. Unable to mentally overcome the pain, as he should have been so easily able to do, he found himself instead reaching to brace himself against the tree where Angeline had stood only a moment ago.

Before he could turn, Angeline had swept her foot around the back of his legs, bringing him hard to the ground. He stared up into her furious bronze eyes, amazed that she had not only brought him to the ground as a Guardian would, but that she had disarmed him, now holding his dagger in her hand.

She looked dangerously into his eyes. “Do you think me to be such an ignorant girl?” she asked, letting his dagger fall point first into the ground between his legs for him to retrieve.

“Angeline, you must forgive me, though I am unclear of what I did that may have insulted you!” He was trying to figure out how he went from gazing into her perfect eyes one moment to having the heel of her shoe sharply gouged into the top of his boot before she took him down to the ground in the next. He sprung quickly to his feet to face her.

Her lips were pressed into a fine line, her arms crossed, and her eyes were like flint. “Unclear?”

Harrison reached out. “Forgive me, but—” He ran a hand through his hair. “Angie, you must tell me, how did you learn to fight in such a way, never once—”

“Have you forgotten my eldest brother already? Julian taught me how to defend myself ever since he became a Guardian. But that is hardly the point at the moment,” she snapped back. “I am not required to tell you anything.”

Julian, Harrison thought with great remorse. “Angie, I beg of you to please forgive me. I am still deeply regretful for the loss of your brother in the battle of Armedias.”

“I do not need your sympathy, Harry,” she said as tears filled her eyes. “My brother met his death with great honor, as did all of our Guardian warriors.” She placed both hands on her hips. “Our family is dealing with the grief of his loss very well, and now I am even more grateful that he taught me the ways of a Guardian warrior, so that I may defend myself against selfish men like you.”

Harrison reached for her hand, but Angeline jerked away and took a step back. “Do not touch me.”

“Believe me when I say I never had any intention of our outing ending in this manner.” He rubbed his forehead and exhaled. “I don’t know what came over me.”

“But of course you did not, Mr. Oxley,” she said with disgust. “Had I not stopped the beast of a man you were turning into, I believe your intentions would have been that I fall victim to your charms, as every other pitiful woman in this land has.”

“Angie, please know that—”

“Who do you think you are, Harrison Oxley?” she interrupted him with a deliberate and icy tone. “More than that, who exactly do you think I am?”

Harrison sighed as remorse washed heavily over him while he stared down into Angeline’s fiery gaze. What was I thinking?

“Angeline, I am so dreadfully sorry.”

“Indeed, you are. You are a pathetic excuse for a man, and I am sorry that I believed myself to be different than every other woman you have so egotistically taken advantage of.”

“Angeline.”

“I should have known you were no better than the boys you have made it your mission to insult every time you see them. I do not care how handsome you are, Harry; I will not be so easily taken advantage of by a man’s base desires. Ever.”

He could say nothing. She was right, and his words of apology were meaningless. He stared at her, unable to speak.

“Take me back to the palace,” she demanded.

Without another word, Harrison nodded to answer Angeline’s demand of him. She was right in every possible way about him, and Harrison wondered if he would ever gain Angeline’s forgiveness for what he had done.