After making some small talk, Bella Scott left the banquet early. Clarky acted as her guardian throughout, keeping admirers at bay.
What Bella didn't expect was to see Edward Anderson in the hotel lobby when she returned.
"Are you staying at this hotel too?" Bella walked slowly toward Edward.
Edward's gaze followed the sway of her dress, guessing that she had just left the banquet.
Just as he thought this, a man's voice could be heard behind them. A handsome young man chased after her, calling her Miss Scott.
Clarky never expected someone to be so persistent, following them from the banquet to the hotel.
The man was a member of European royalty who had fallen in love with Bella at first sight. He hoped she would stay in the country a few days longer, as a gracious host.
After Bella politely declined, Clarky escorted the man out of the hotel.
By then, half an hour had passed.
