It took a huge amount of self-restraint on the part of James to keep his hands respectfully around Lily’s shoulders as they made the hurried drive to the meeting point where Anya would be waiting for them on her own horse. Lily, on the other hand, was blissfully unaware of her fiance’s thoughts and happily remained on the front carriage seat with the horse reins. James watched her from his spot next to her and realized that day by day he was falling even more deeply in love with his little Princess. He loved her passion and drive to help the needy. He loved her laughter and he loved the way she fit in his arms. He was going to go home and insist on their engagement ball as soon as possible. They couldn’t delay it any longer.
The trio reached the palace late the next day, taking turns dri
