Perhaps teaching the girls a few defense tactics was in order. One never knew when such a weapon would be required. It was a forward thinking idea. Papa would likely have balked at such a notion when he was in his right mine. But Prince could not be with them every moment. He glanced at Cinderella. A shame where she's concerned.
A fierce sense of protectiveness stole over him. She needed him more than most, he decided. He blew out a sharp breath.
"Are you well, Sire?" Cinderella asked. She looked lovely in her bright yellow day gown. With her olive complexion and dark locks...he could almost imagine…non!
A sliver of cheese caught in his throat and he began to choke. Heat rose up his neck. Cinderella held out a glass. He snatched it from her fingers and downed the contents. Someone pounded on his back. He turned his head and met the mischievous eyes of Lady Pricilla.
Could the ground just not swallow him up?
"Do not pound so hard, Pricilla," Cinderella snapped.
Surprise lit the features of the sisters.
These odd feelings around Cinderella were uncomfortable - made him feel guilty. He needed to find his mysterious princess. Then Maman would have to cease her infernal wedding plans. How appalling to realize he'd given up on the search since the invasion of their current guests. He felt almost dizzy with the simplicity of it all. The air around suddenly vibrated with scintillating sparkles.
He gathered his control. "I'm…I'm fine," he assured them.
Prince smiled, his most charming smile. He had a sudden itch to jump on his horse and dash away. He knew now what he had to do, and was most anxious to proceed.