Absentmindedly, I touch my neck. I am wearing a different necklace, but I kept Calais' gift in the bag that I will bring to the Parcell's. I wonder how Marilen, the Parcell's head servant, will react to my unannounced arrival? Duke Lartius will be livid for a while, too.
"Lady Dunnett, Prince Cornelius is here."
"Let him in," I say.
When I hear the door close, I turn towards him. The banquet for tonight is to celebrate Princess Margaret's birthday and to celebrate the remaining selection participants. I am about to bow to him when he gives me a quick hug instead.
When he withdraws, he admires me. "Aren't you stunning? No man can resist you tonight."
