"Have a missive sent to the castle," he commanded, breathing hard now. "Informing that I am to present my bride to the throne at dinner."
The man ran out, shocked but shut-lipped.
He turned to his mother. "And mother, do find some colour, you are finally getting a daughter-in-law."
"Your Highness, don't—"
"Oh, I will," he interrupted coldly, "Learn a lesson, dear mother. There are certain consequences for certain actions."
Then, without another word, he seized the wrist of the equally shocked Madelyn and strode from the room, pulling her with him.
His mother exhaled wide-eyed, and collapsed into the closest sofa.
***
In shock, Madelyn freed her hands from Mr Brand's hold and hurried into her bedchamber. She stood there, rigidly unmoving, staring blindly at the yellow-papered wall.
Her pulse hammered wildly.
He had asked her to marry him? And she had agreed?
