Dating A Prince: A Royalish Series, page 4
Magnus wasn’t unfamiliar with the practice. Still, he always waded in on the side of caution. He couldn’t afford any slip-ups.
“I heard the buzz from Spain. I don’t believe it.” Santiago offered Magnus a reassuring look.
“Thanks. It's not true. I cannot grasp what would possess her to make such a damning accusation? It's not like DNA doesn’t exist to prove how wrong the woman is. It’s all unfathomable.”
“Well, you are the Crown Prince of Martierra. I suppose a few crazies will try anything. Don’t fret, my friend. These things solve themselves rather quickly.” Santiago looked around. “I will go join those two beautiful ladies on the dance floor. Care to join me?”
“Perhaps later. I will grab a drink and wander around for a moment, clear my head, if you don’t mind?”
“Not at all. Take your time,” Santiago said as he took the last sip from his snifter and walked away.
Magnus meandered around, taking in the views until he stumbled upon a young lady with a white dress. Her back was to him, but not for long. As if she’d felt his gaze, she turned. Something about her captivated him at first glance. She stood up; that’s when he noticed the red bowed shoes. A bold contrast to her demure dress and petite figure.
He was again captured by her.
“I apologize, Miss. I didn’t mean to stare so intently. But your beauty? It's captivating,” he said without stumbling over his words. Not wanting to freak her out, he politely smiled, a gesture she returned.
“My name is Magnus,” he hesitated for a moment, not wanting to reveal his identity. “I’m new to town. Visiting,” he said, extending his hand in goodwill.
“Nice to meet you, Magnus from out of town.” She smiled. “I’m Freya, from around here.”
She has a sense of humor! He was already excited.
“Well, Miss Freya from around here. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”
“Likewise, Magnus. Likewise.” She extended her hand and asked, “Tell me, what attracted you to the Pacific Northwest? Especially this time of year? It’s not tourist season.”
“A good friend of mine lives here. He’s been insistent I come for a visit, and after a little research, I realized it was just what the doctor ordered. I believe that is the saying?” he wondered out loud.
“Yes, it is a saying. But it's typically used when you desperately need a break.”
“I suppose I needed to get away.” He smiled, wondering if he should ask if he could join her.
“I hope you enjoy your time up here. If you get the opportunity, the Olympic Mountain range is a must see. Most people ignore the area altogether, opting for the typical touristy sights, but the area has so much to offer, along with some great wineries.”
“Do you mind if I join you? I’d love to hear more about the places I should visit. You know, off the beaten track.” He winked.
“Not at all. Please. Just know, I’m here with my girlfriends.”
They got to talking about different places Freya recommended. Before they knew it, he already was enjoying a sparkling water with freshly squeezed lime juice of his own as Freya shared a little about her past life as a ballerina. Magnus hung on to her every word. She was intelligent, beautiful, and as far as he could tell, a compassionate human being.
Freya had engaged nervously in conversation with the handsome man right before her. But as the conversation progressed, he made her feel comfortable. It was like they were old friends and were catching up. He seemed like a sensitive soul. Never mind he was handsome, he was equally intelligent.
Justine and Marissa rejoined them in the company of Santiago.
Santiago lifted his head. Magnus noticed Santiago side glance him; he reminded himself to ask him what that was about later. In the meantime, he introduced his friend to Freya, and Freya introduced hers to him.
“I see.” Marissa smiled. “Wherever you two come from must produce great quality men.” She laughed. “Sorry, that didn’t come out right. What I’m trying to say is that you all are hot!”
Magnus noticed Justine roll her eyes, a habit he was familiar with. Cossette often did this out of the public view. If there was something that irritated him the most, it was eye-rolling.
“Would you all care for another round of drinks? I could use something as it was getting hot out on the dance floor,” Santiago offered.
“I can use a drink. I’ll accompany you to the bar,” Justine responded.
Marissa looked a little defeated. There was a struggle going on over Santiago, Magnus thought. Perhaps he was missing something. I mean, he’s a handsome fella, but his history as a Don Juan? He shook the thought away; what did he know of Santiago anymore? It’d been years since the two had truly been in each other’s company.
“Freya, are you going to have anything else other than your sparkling water?” Marissa asked as the other two disappeared.
“I’m good for now.”
Magnus took in her graciousness. It was contagious as he caught himself smiling with her.
“How about you, Magnus? What are you drinking?”
“Oh. I’m having the same as Freya.”
“You are kidding, right? Ugh. Please, whatever you do, have fun and do not go all cerebral on each other. We got Freya out tonight, so she can have fun and not sit here and just sit looking hot,” Marissa said as she excused herself.
“Don’t mind her. I think she’s feeling a little envious of Justine now. Your friend caught her eye the moment he walked through those doors.”
Magnus wanted to assure her he wasn’t all he was cracked up to be, but that was useless. What would he be proving?
“No fretting here.” He smiled. “So, how do the three of you know each other?”
“Well, I own a dance studio, just outside the city. My business has been growing, so I found myself in need of additional instructors. Part-time, to offer classes in areas I’m not very strong in. Marissa is an amazing hip-hop dancer, a popular genre now. She’s also an excellent ballerina. Justine, well, she’s just kind of master in all dance forms. She’s been hugely instrumental in my growth these past few years. I rely on her a lot to help me with the different class setups.”
“You all danced together, prior?”
“No. I only met them when they responded to my ad. They’ve known each other from a previous job, so when Justine approached me, she told me about Marissa. It wasn’t a package deal, but I recognized the opportunity in hiring them both. Besides, Marissa is popular with the kids. Like I said, Hip Hop is popular with the kids these days. We still get a lot of interest in the classical forms, just not as much. It’s more the parents pushing it.”
Magnus listened intently to every word she spoke, every gesture she made; there was something about her he couldn’t shake off, captivating him.
“Sounds like the three of you make an amazing team. May I ask why your studio isn’t in the city?”
“Property in the city is expensive unless in a less than desirable place. Because there are so many other services being offered, it means it is more difficult to compete. Also, the more affluent areas gravitate towards studios with a brand, and who’s who, if you will.” She paused. “The suburbs offer me a better opportunity with parents wanting to invest more long-term in their child’s extracurricular activities. Property is less expensive and much more expansive, and I live at my studio.”
The statement caught Magnus off guard when she said the latter. He was unsure about how to ask why she lived at her studio, but she must have seen the question in his face.
“The studio I purchased is a house partially converted into a studio. It had been functioning in previous years, but the former owner didn’t update the place, and it became outdated. I was very fortunate to snatch it at a great price. I’ve put more money to update it and the apartment. It sits off the main road, with enough property to designate a private entry and still have a yard. Albeit, I’m not much of a gardener; I still pay a landscaper to maintain the grounds. It is more than just my home and business, it is my investment. Someday I’d love to outgrow the place and get a bigger, proper studio. So, I need to ensure my clients feel at home and see I’m truly vested in creating a great environment. Some kids spend countless hours at the studio, taking different classes. It’s a home away from home. And we’ve competed within the past year. The competition teams are really doing well out there. I’ve got to keep that momentum going.”
There was a sense of accomplishment in her tone, and her body language showed her love and pride in what she did. Magnus tried to envision the place.
“I’d ask you to dance, but I’m afraid I’m shy now. I don’t really have much to offer in any form of dance. Maybe slow dancing, but anyone can do that. Right?” he jokingly added.
“You’d be surprised! I had a couple come once, early on when I started my studio. He said he couldn’t dance, not even slow dance, but I didn't believe him. After a few lessons, they stumped me. He wasn’t joking!” She laughed. “However, I’m stubborn. I wasn’t giving up. Lucky, they’d come with plenty of time. We had him slow dancing like a pro, and for their first dance, they chose a Viennese Waltz. They did great.”
“I stand corrected.” He smiled. “Freya, if I may, I’d like to see you again. No strings attached, just a coffee or a bite to eat. I like you and would like to get to know you better.” He shocked himself. He hadn’t expected to mingle with the locals like this, but Freya seemed like a woman you’d seldom meet. She had an air both refreshing and interesting. He didn’t want to pass on the opportunity to get to know her better. He wasn’t sure why, but he had to.
“That would be nice. I’m supposed to be trying to get out more. At least, that is what I’ve been telling myself, which is why I’m here.” She hesitated. “But tell me a little more about yourself? Where are you from? What do you do? I’m assuming you must do well for yourself, as it is my understanding they don’t just let anyone into this club. Which baffles me I’m even allowed.” She laughed.
“Yes, I hear it is exclusive. Maybe they’ll catch on to both of us in due time,” he joked. “I’m from a small island off the coast of Spain, in the family business, not necessarily by choice, but that’s a topic for a different day. My family is important. I’m, however, still trying to figure out how I want to navigate in life. I kind of feel they’ve set this path for me, and it’s not that I’m ungrateful, I don’t know how I want to accept my prospective destiny.” He looked away for a few moments before continuing, “My parents intend well, and I know we’ll figure this out.”
“Do you have siblings? I have one younger sister and two older brothers. She’s married, and I constantly feel pressure from my family about settling down.” She laughed. “I haven’t even been in a relationship in like forever! And they want me to settle down? The crazy thing is my brother Tristan is two years older than me; he doesn’t get half the pressure I do, and he isn’t married either. Seems hardly fair if you ask me.”
“I can relate. My parents are what you call traditional. They’d very much like to see me settling down soon. I don’t see that for myself, at least, not now. I have one sister, Cossette. She’s all too eager to please my parents, which is frightening if you ask me. She’s very much an independent thinker, but I think she enjoys the traditional values and comforts a lifestyle such as my families has to offer.”
Freya seemed more relaxed now he noticed as he took a sip of his drink. “Miss Freya, I’m glad I met you. And thank you for allowing me to share your company.”
She looked at him as if unsure how to reply, but he quickly added, “You know, just in case I do not say this later. Thank you.”
“Magnus, you’re welcome. Hey, so, shall we try the dance floor? Isn’t that why we are here, to have fun?”
He couldn’t resist. The twinkle in her eye was hypnotizing.
Freya couldn’t believe how much she was enjoying herself on the dance floor. Magnus seemed a little stiff, but he had potential if he’d just let his body loose. She threw her arms in the air like she didn’t care and smiled, grooving to the music. One song led to another and another when the heat finally got to her.
“I think I need to grab a drink. How about you?” she asked, hoping it was loud enough for Magnus to hear. He nodded his head, grabbed her hand, and led her off the dance floor where her white dress stood out with the neon lights. Without thinking she followed him as if they’d been familiar with each other for a long time, which caught her off guard when she realized this.
“What do you want to drink?” he asked.
“The same thing I was having earlier. Sparkling water with a splash of lime juice.”
“You know, you really are amazing,” he said, ordering their drinks and causing Freya to wonder what about her most boring drink made her amazing?
They made their way back to their friends who were engaged in a political conversation, causing Freya to cringe. “This might not end well for your friend,” she whispered in Magnus’ ear.
“Oh, no? Why do you say so?” She’d piqued his interest.
“Justine is a hardcore feminist. Marissa just follows. I think she doesn’t want to upset her friend and goes along with anything Justine says.”
“I see. Well, they are fortunate to be in the U.S. then, a country where women have more rights than many others.”
Freya turned to Magnus. “I’m not very political. I mean, I care about various topics, but not to the extent of passionately arguing with random folks about how I feel and what I support. That’s Justine. I’m more of a silent observer, genuinely interested in the world around me, but not voicing my opinions so openly.”
Magnus smiled and didn’t press the topic, but instead changed it.
“I’m hungry. I grabbed nothing to eat this evening, and I’m not interested in anything this establishment has to offer. Why don’t we leave and find a diner or something, if that’s okay with you?”
“A diner? Hmm? Let me think.” Jogging her memory, she couldn’t think of anything immediately. “You will think this is silly, but I don’t even know what is open right now. I’m not familiar with the nightlife around here anymore.” She laughed as they sat with the others.
“Freya, glad to see you enjoying yourself!” Marissa exclaimed. “You were working it on the dance floor.”
“I’m trying.”
“Freya and I will grab a bite to eat. If anyone cares to join us?”
“I’d love to get out of here. What’s the plan?” Justine asked with a somewhat defeated look on her face. Freya knew the look. Santiago must have been a great sparring partner as far as it concerned politics.
“We don’t know!” Freya laughed. “I’m such a hermit I don’t even know where to go out to eat this late at night.”
“It’s not that late,” Marissa challenged. “Besides, you know what sounds fantastic right now, and I haven’t been there in like forever? 13 Coins!”
“Oh! That sounds good,” Freya agreed. “Besides, Magnus is new to the area. I think it would serve him well to go to a local favorite.”
Freya noticed that Santiago didn’t look very impressed. She didn’t care; the more she thought about food, the hungrier she became.
“I see you’ve been enjoying yourself with Freya. She’s beautiful, and not very much like her friends from what I can tell,” Santiago said to Magnus as they got into the awaiting car. The women opted to take an Uber and meet them there. Magnus wanted to join them, but the vehicle was smaller, plus Santiago had a driver waiting.
“She’s very interesting. It helps that she is beautiful, but she’s easy to converse with and not in a ‘trying hard to impress me’ kind of way.”
“Just be careful, Your Highness. Remember, your life differs greatly from hers. Besides, I checked up on her two friends. They aren’t necessarily good girls. Seems they used to work as escorts. I checked on Freya. Her name is Freya Sinclair. It appears she’s led a very mundane life since a ballet injury which caused her young career to end. She seems to have a good head on her shoulders. Regardless, she’s not a royal and doesn’t come from money. Her mother was a nurse. She seemed to stop working when she and her husband had children. Her father was an engineer out at Hanford in eastern Washington, the nuclear waste site. Her eldest married brother followed in the father’s footsteps as far as a career. The other brother has an interesting job traveling around the world. Something to do with toys. I couldn’t get more. And her younger sister is also married. Her husband is an OB/GYN. A doctor. Her entire family went to Washington State University, expect for Freya. She attended the University of Washington.”
Magnus shifted in the moving car and looked over at Santiago. He wondered why he’d done what he did, but he figured it would happen, eventually. His father wouldn’t allow him to gallivant to another country without having insight into what he was doing. Especially with the scandal ensuing now in Spain and Martierra, reminding him it was a good time to check in with his secretary.
“Thank you, Santi. I appreciate your looking out for me. I still find it fascinating how quickly you or anyone at the palace can gather Intel on a person,” he said as he looked down at his phone and wrote a message.
Santiago was speaking to the driver when Magnus felt his phone vibrate. He looked down at the screen: Prince Magnus, nothing new to report. The media are regurgitating the breaking story. I’ve spoken to the King. He believes you. He’s kind of happy you aren’t over here for this frenzy. Please check in with him when you have a moment. Also, your friend Santiago de la Cruz had the palace run a background on three women. Escorts? Please do not make this fiasco any worse.
Magnus could feel his blood boil. Santiago had used the palace resources to check up on Freya and her friends. It bothered Magnus. What gave him the right to do so? he thought. But he wouldn’t address this now. He replied to his secretary: Bernard, thank you for the report. I’ll reach out to my father later. Also, please ensure Santiago uses none of the palace resources again. I’ll address this issue with him, but those services are to be closely guarded. Oh, and one other thing. Miss Freya Sinclair is not nor ever was an escort. Please ensure you review the facts correctly. Assumptions can be damaging. Thank you.
“I heard the buzz from Spain. I don’t believe it.” Santiago offered Magnus a reassuring look.
“Thanks. It's not true. I cannot grasp what would possess her to make such a damning accusation? It's not like DNA doesn’t exist to prove how wrong the woman is. It’s all unfathomable.”
“Well, you are the Crown Prince of Martierra. I suppose a few crazies will try anything. Don’t fret, my friend. These things solve themselves rather quickly.” Santiago looked around. “I will go join those two beautiful ladies on the dance floor. Care to join me?”
“Perhaps later. I will grab a drink and wander around for a moment, clear my head, if you don’t mind?”
“Not at all. Take your time,” Santiago said as he took the last sip from his snifter and walked away.
Magnus meandered around, taking in the views until he stumbled upon a young lady with a white dress. Her back was to him, but not for long. As if she’d felt his gaze, she turned. Something about her captivated him at first glance. She stood up; that’s when he noticed the red bowed shoes. A bold contrast to her demure dress and petite figure.
He was again captured by her.
“I apologize, Miss. I didn’t mean to stare so intently. But your beauty? It's captivating,” he said without stumbling over his words. Not wanting to freak her out, he politely smiled, a gesture she returned.
“My name is Magnus,” he hesitated for a moment, not wanting to reveal his identity. “I’m new to town. Visiting,” he said, extending his hand in goodwill.
“Nice to meet you, Magnus from out of town.” She smiled. “I’m Freya, from around here.”
She has a sense of humor! He was already excited.
“Well, Miss Freya from around here. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”
“Likewise, Magnus. Likewise.” She extended her hand and asked, “Tell me, what attracted you to the Pacific Northwest? Especially this time of year? It’s not tourist season.”
“A good friend of mine lives here. He’s been insistent I come for a visit, and after a little research, I realized it was just what the doctor ordered. I believe that is the saying?” he wondered out loud.
“Yes, it is a saying. But it's typically used when you desperately need a break.”
“I suppose I needed to get away.” He smiled, wondering if he should ask if he could join her.
“I hope you enjoy your time up here. If you get the opportunity, the Olympic Mountain range is a must see. Most people ignore the area altogether, opting for the typical touristy sights, but the area has so much to offer, along with some great wineries.”
“Do you mind if I join you? I’d love to hear more about the places I should visit. You know, off the beaten track.” He winked.
“Not at all. Please. Just know, I’m here with my girlfriends.”
They got to talking about different places Freya recommended. Before they knew it, he already was enjoying a sparkling water with freshly squeezed lime juice of his own as Freya shared a little about her past life as a ballerina. Magnus hung on to her every word. She was intelligent, beautiful, and as far as he could tell, a compassionate human being.
Freya had engaged nervously in conversation with the handsome man right before her. But as the conversation progressed, he made her feel comfortable. It was like they were old friends and were catching up. He seemed like a sensitive soul. Never mind he was handsome, he was equally intelligent.
Justine and Marissa rejoined them in the company of Santiago.
Santiago lifted his head. Magnus noticed Santiago side glance him; he reminded himself to ask him what that was about later. In the meantime, he introduced his friend to Freya, and Freya introduced hers to him.
“I see.” Marissa smiled. “Wherever you two come from must produce great quality men.” She laughed. “Sorry, that didn’t come out right. What I’m trying to say is that you all are hot!”
Magnus noticed Justine roll her eyes, a habit he was familiar with. Cossette often did this out of the public view. If there was something that irritated him the most, it was eye-rolling.
“Would you all care for another round of drinks? I could use something as it was getting hot out on the dance floor,” Santiago offered.
“I can use a drink. I’ll accompany you to the bar,” Justine responded.
Marissa looked a little defeated. There was a struggle going on over Santiago, Magnus thought. Perhaps he was missing something. I mean, he’s a handsome fella, but his history as a Don Juan? He shook the thought away; what did he know of Santiago anymore? It’d been years since the two had truly been in each other’s company.
“Freya, are you going to have anything else other than your sparkling water?” Marissa asked as the other two disappeared.
“I’m good for now.”
Magnus took in her graciousness. It was contagious as he caught himself smiling with her.
“How about you, Magnus? What are you drinking?”
“Oh. I’m having the same as Freya.”
“You are kidding, right? Ugh. Please, whatever you do, have fun and do not go all cerebral on each other. We got Freya out tonight, so she can have fun and not sit here and just sit looking hot,” Marissa said as she excused herself.
“Don’t mind her. I think she’s feeling a little envious of Justine now. Your friend caught her eye the moment he walked through those doors.”
Magnus wanted to assure her he wasn’t all he was cracked up to be, but that was useless. What would he be proving?
“No fretting here.” He smiled. “So, how do the three of you know each other?”
“Well, I own a dance studio, just outside the city. My business has been growing, so I found myself in need of additional instructors. Part-time, to offer classes in areas I’m not very strong in. Marissa is an amazing hip-hop dancer, a popular genre now. She’s also an excellent ballerina. Justine, well, she’s just kind of master in all dance forms. She’s been hugely instrumental in my growth these past few years. I rely on her a lot to help me with the different class setups.”
“You all danced together, prior?”
“No. I only met them when they responded to my ad. They’ve known each other from a previous job, so when Justine approached me, she told me about Marissa. It wasn’t a package deal, but I recognized the opportunity in hiring them both. Besides, Marissa is popular with the kids. Like I said, Hip Hop is popular with the kids these days. We still get a lot of interest in the classical forms, just not as much. It’s more the parents pushing it.”
Magnus listened intently to every word she spoke, every gesture she made; there was something about her he couldn’t shake off, captivating him.
“Sounds like the three of you make an amazing team. May I ask why your studio isn’t in the city?”
“Property in the city is expensive unless in a less than desirable place. Because there are so many other services being offered, it means it is more difficult to compete. Also, the more affluent areas gravitate towards studios with a brand, and who’s who, if you will.” She paused. “The suburbs offer me a better opportunity with parents wanting to invest more long-term in their child’s extracurricular activities. Property is less expensive and much more expansive, and I live at my studio.”
The statement caught Magnus off guard when she said the latter. He was unsure about how to ask why she lived at her studio, but she must have seen the question in his face.
“The studio I purchased is a house partially converted into a studio. It had been functioning in previous years, but the former owner didn’t update the place, and it became outdated. I was very fortunate to snatch it at a great price. I’ve put more money to update it and the apartment. It sits off the main road, with enough property to designate a private entry and still have a yard. Albeit, I’m not much of a gardener; I still pay a landscaper to maintain the grounds. It is more than just my home and business, it is my investment. Someday I’d love to outgrow the place and get a bigger, proper studio. So, I need to ensure my clients feel at home and see I’m truly vested in creating a great environment. Some kids spend countless hours at the studio, taking different classes. It’s a home away from home. And we’ve competed within the past year. The competition teams are really doing well out there. I’ve got to keep that momentum going.”
There was a sense of accomplishment in her tone, and her body language showed her love and pride in what she did. Magnus tried to envision the place.
“I’d ask you to dance, but I’m afraid I’m shy now. I don’t really have much to offer in any form of dance. Maybe slow dancing, but anyone can do that. Right?” he jokingly added.
“You’d be surprised! I had a couple come once, early on when I started my studio. He said he couldn’t dance, not even slow dance, but I didn't believe him. After a few lessons, they stumped me. He wasn’t joking!” She laughed. “However, I’m stubborn. I wasn’t giving up. Lucky, they’d come with plenty of time. We had him slow dancing like a pro, and for their first dance, they chose a Viennese Waltz. They did great.”
“I stand corrected.” He smiled. “Freya, if I may, I’d like to see you again. No strings attached, just a coffee or a bite to eat. I like you and would like to get to know you better.” He shocked himself. He hadn’t expected to mingle with the locals like this, but Freya seemed like a woman you’d seldom meet. She had an air both refreshing and interesting. He didn’t want to pass on the opportunity to get to know her better. He wasn’t sure why, but he had to.
“That would be nice. I’m supposed to be trying to get out more. At least, that is what I’ve been telling myself, which is why I’m here.” She hesitated. “But tell me a little more about yourself? Where are you from? What do you do? I’m assuming you must do well for yourself, as it is my understanding they don’t just let anyone into this club. Which baffles me I’m even allowed.” She laughed.
“Yes, I hear it is exclusive. Maybe they’ll catch on to both of us in due time,” he joked. “I’m from a small island off the coast of Spain, in the family business, not necessarily by choice, but that’s a topic for a different day. My family is important. I’m, however, still trying to figure out how I want to navigate in life. I kind of feel they’ve set this path for me, and it’s not that I’m ungrateful, I don’t know how I want to accept my prospective destiny.” He looked away for a few moments before continuing, “My parents intend well, and I know we’ll figure this out.”
“Do you have siblings? I have one younger sister and two older brothers. She’s married, and I constantly feel pressure from my family about settling down.” She laughed. “I haven’t even been in a relationship in like forever! And they want me to settle down? The crazy thing is my brother Tristan is two years older than me; he doesn’t get half the pressure I do, and he isn’t married either. Seems hardly fair if you ask me.”
“I can relate. My parents are what you call traditional. They’d very much like to see me settling down soon. I don’t see that for myself, at least, not now. I have one sister, Cossette. She’s all too eager to please my parents, which is frightening if you ask me. She’s very much an independent thinker, but I think she enjoys the traditional values and comforts a lifestyle such as my families has to offer.”
Freya seemed more relaxed now he noticed as he took a sip of his drink. “Miss Freya, I’m glad I met you. And thank you for allowing me to share your company.”
She looked at him as if unsure how to reply, but he quickly added, “You know, just in case I do not say this later. Thank you.”
“Magnus, you’re welcome. Hey, so, shall we try the dance floor? Isn’t that why we are here, to have fun?”
He couldn’t resist. The twinkle in her eye was hypnotizing.
Freya couldn’t believe how much she was enjoying herself on the dance floor. Magnus seemed a little stiff, but he had potential if he’d just let his body loose. She threw her arms in the air like she didn’t care and smiled, grooving to the music. One song led to another and another when the heat finally got to her.
“I think I need to grab a drink. How about you?” she asked, hoping it was loud enough for Magnus to hear. He nodded his head, grabbed her hand, and led her off the dance floor where her white dress stood out with the neon lights. Without thinking she followed him as if they’d been familiar with each other for a long time, which caught her off guard when she realized this.
“What do you want to drink?” he asked.
“The same thing I was having earlier. Sparkling water with a splash of lime juice.”
“You know, you really are amazing,” he said, ordering their drinks and causing Freya to wonder what about her most boring drink made her amazing?
They made their way back to their friends who were engaged in a political conversation, causing Freya to cringe. “This might not end well for your friend,” she whispered in Magnus’ ear.
“Oh, no? Why do you say so?” She’d piqued his interest.
“Justine is a hardcore feminist. Marissa just follows. I think she doesn’t want to upset her friend and goes along with anything Justine says.”
“I see. Well, they are fortunate to be in the U.S. then, a country where women have more rights than many others.”
Freya turned to Magnus. “I’m not very political. I mean, I care about various topics, but not to the extent of passionately arguing with random folks about how I feel and what I support. That’s Justine. I’m more of a silent observer, genuinely interested in the world around me, but not voicing my opinions so openly.”
Magnus smiled and didn’t press the topic, but instead changed it.
“I’m hungry. I grabbed nothing to eat this evening, and I’m not interested in anything this establishment has to offer. Why don’t we leave and find a diner or something, if that’s okay with you?”
“A diner? Hmm? Let me think.” Jogging her memory, she couldn’t think of anything immediately. “You will think this is silly, but I don’t even know what is open right now. I’m not familiar with the nightlife around here anymore.” She laughed as they sat with the others.
“Freya, glad to see you enjoying yourself!” Marissa exclaimed. “You were working it on the dance floor.”
“I’m trying.”
“Freya and I will grab a bite to eat. If anyone cares to join us?”
“I’d love to get out of here. What’s the plan?” Justine asked with a somewhat defeated look on her face. Freya knew the look. Santiago must have been a great sparring partner as far as it concerned politics.
“We don’t know!” Freya laughed. “I’m such a hermit I don’t even know where to go out to eat this late at night.”
“It’s not that late,” Marissa challenged. “Besides, you know what sounds fantastic right now, and I haven’t been there in like forever? 13 Coins!”
“Oh! That sounds good,” Freya agreed. “Besides, Magnus is new to the area. I think it would serve him well to go to a local favorite.”
Freya noticed that Santiago didn’t look very impressed. She didn’t care; the more she thought about food, the hungrier she became.
“I see you’ve been enjoying yourself with Freya. She’s beautiful, and not very much like her friends from what I can tell,” Santiago said to Magnus as they got into the awaiting car. The women opted to take an Uber and meet them there. Magnus wanted to join them, but the vehicle was smaller, plus Santiago had a driver waiting.
“She’s very interesting. It helps that she is beautiful, but she’s easy to converse with and not in a ‘trying hard to impress me’ kind of way.”
“Just be careful, Your Highness. Remember, your life differs greatly from hers. Besides, I checked up on her two friends. They aren’t necessarily good girls. Seems they used to work as escorts. I checked on Freya. Her name is Freya Sinclair. It appears she’s led a very mundane life since a ballet injury which caused her young career to end. She seems to have a good head on her shoulders. Regardless, she’s not a royal and doesn’t come from money. Her mother was a nurse. She seemed to stop working when she and her husband had children. Her father was an engineer out at Hanford in eastern Washington, the nuclear waste site. Her eldest married brother followed in the father’s footsteps as far as a career. The other brother has an interesting job traveling around the world. Something to do with toys. I couldn’t get more. And her younger sister is also married. Her husband is an OB/GYN. A doctor. Her entire family went to Washington State University, expect for Freya. She attended the University of Washington.”
Magnus shifted in the moving car and looked over at Santiago. He wondered why he’d done what he did, but he figured it would happen, eventually. His father wouldn’t allow him to gallivant to another country without having insight into what he was doing. Especially with the scandal ensuing now in Spain and Martierra, reminding him it was a good time to check in with his secretary.
“Thank you, Santi. I appreciate your looking out for me. I still find it fascinating how quickly you or anyone at the palace can gather Intel on a person,” he said as he looked down at his phone and wrote a message.
Santiago was speaking to the driver when Magnus felt his phone vibrate. He looked down at the screen: Prince Magnus, nothing new to report. The media are regurgitating the breaking story. I’ve spoken to the King. He believes you. He’s kind of happy you aren’t over here for this frenzy. Please check in with him when you have a moment. Also, your friend Santiago de la Cruz had the palace run a background on three women. Escorts? Please do not make this fiasco any worse.
Magnus could feel his blood boil. Santiago had used the palace resources to check up on Freya and her friends. It bothered Magnus. What gave him the right to do so? he thought. But he wouldn’t address this now. He replied to his secretary: Bernard, thank you for the report. I’ll reach out to my father later. Also, please ensure Santiago uses none of the palace resources again. I’ll address this issue with him, but those services are to be closely guarded. Oh, and one other thing. Miss Freya Sinclair is not nor ever was an escort. Please ensure you review the facts correctly. Assumptions can be damaging. Thank you.
