The Prince's Leased Bride

Parting Ways

His hands were warm and gentle, brushing against the back of her neck as he lifted her long hair up. “Let me help you, this is partially my fault...” His breath was hot against her ear and a shiver ran up her spine. Was this man capable of such gentle actions? Was he like this to every woman? That thought somehow made its way through her mind despite the situation.

“You drink more than you can take.” He added as she continued heaving. She bit back a snicker as that was plain obvious. Alice continued retching whatever was in her stomach and as she finally emptied her guts, she wiped a wrist against her mouth.

“Phew, glad that’s over with.”

“I’ve been said to take a lot more than I can handle.” That should have come out sexier if she didn’t smell like a reek.

“I see.” His voice was curt and cold. Way to go Alice. “Well then, let’s get you to a room.”

Her mind blanked at that remark, room? Her cheeks started to burn up as he helped her up, “Um… my suitcase!” she blustered and started to wobble back towards the lounge area.

“You had a suitcase?” The man trailed after her, trying to assist the woman who merely rejected his advances. Now their little world started to strip away, the blaring sound of speakers and flashy lights reminding her of their surroundings.

It seemed like Kevin had a real bunch of party people.

She finally made it to the double sided couches and took a well-deserved seat, only nearly tripping on the flat floor thrice- that was a good record. She held her suitcase to her chest, behind her was ‘Harold’ who talked with ‘fake bartender’.

“Ms Smith-” he decided to turn his attention to her.

“Quit that.” She met his gaze and narrowed her eyes at the male. She wasn’t sure if somehow their contract made her more relaxed or her inhibitions were gone thanks to the alcohol. “I’d rather hear my own name.” She watched him purse his lips, “It’s Alice just in case you forgot.”

“Of course, I’ll listen to your request Alice.” His voice exuded calm nonchalance, he nodded at the bartender. “Our friend shall escort you to a room.”

“I’m good.” Alice flung herself onto the couch, its cushion already a comforting luxury. The suitcase she locked tightly on her chest. “Have a good night.”

“It’s morning.” His voice sounded teasing and she would have indulged if she had more energy.

“Whatever, I’m sleepy and out.” She yawned and covered her eyes with an arm. Her head throbbed and her body ached all over, she wanted to sink and completely disappear into the couch. The music still thumped in her eardrums but she managed to tune it out, the sounds of footsteps making its way out. Alice began to lose her consciousness.

Darkness beckoned her to sleep.

*

The so called bartender ran his fingers through dishevelled brown hair, muttering curses underneath his breath as his green eyes stared at the man in front of him. “What did you get yourself into?” He had to ask his friend, the move was uncalled for. It was unnatural.

“Daniel, it shouldn’t bother you.” The man loosened his tie as he made his way out of the hotel. “I’m simply making sure that I keep my word, my family has been expecting me to get married.”

“We could have gotten a professional.”

“It’s easy to discover someone whose work is acting. The girl agreed, and it’s only for some time.”

“Ugh, do whatever you want.” Daniel massaged his shoulders, “It’s not like I’m able to stop you.”

“Wise decision.” They reached the parking lot, a dark vehicle awaiting them. A grimace formed on the man’s lips. He opened the car, a bouquet of roses, chocolates and jewellery at the passenger’s seat.

Daniel said nothing for a while before he laid a hand on his friend’s shoulder, “Allow me to drive us back to the country house Blake.”

“You’re not my driver.” Blake’s voice was cold but it didn’t deter the man.

“I know, just head on over to the back.” Daniel gave him a smile as he stole the key from the man’s fingers, “Give me a chance to drive this baby.” He twirled the keychain and motioned to the back seat.

“You’re ridiculous.” Blake rolled his eyes but gave in, opening the back door and getting inside the vehicle.

“Ugh you’re more ridiculous.” Daniel muttered as he got in the driver’s seat and glanced at the items that he had to force to get. Multi-colored roses, the finest chocolate from Switzerland and Belgium, a turquoise necklace, adored with pearls. He had to get it all together within a span of a few hours and did it stress him out to no end.

“Throw it out.” Blake ordered, a palm underneath his chin as he looked out the window. The sun would be rising up soon.

“See what I mean?” Daniel rubbed his eyes and bit back a yawn, “That’s worth more than my pay check for like my lifetime maybe.” Heck, it could probably be worth at least a child’s education.

“Are you saying that my family has not been paying rightfully?” The dark grey eyes of Blake pierced him even in the rear-view mirror.

“No! I mean yes, ack- the thing is, I’m trying to say that you’re willing to risk it all for something you weren’t even sure of.”

“And I pay for it devastatingly?” A tired smile tugged Blake’s lips as he rested his head against the head rest. “I know that, but if you are not willing to risk? You won’t make it that far.”

“Ugh, I guess that blonde girl caught your eye eh?” Daniel murmured, until he coughed. The aura of the man behind had went twenty degrees colder. “Not in the same way as Miss-” he stopped himself from uttering the name.

“You can keep whatever is beside you, allow me to rest though.”

“Er… fine, only because I’m in the mood for chocolates."