“If I were to declare my love for such a man, wouldn’t the people of the kingdom look upon me more favorably? Perhaps the nickname ‘Prickly Princess’ will even fade to obscurity.”
“Who dares call you that?”
“Do not tease me, Damien.”
Chloe furrowed her brow as her nose turned red, but Damien only shook his head.
“Do not let yourself be troubled by the thoughtless words of those who fail to see your wisdom.”
The certainty in his voice sent a tightness through Chloe’s chest. It was moments like these that drew her to him—when he spoke, it was as if his words were the undeniable truth. Still, she couldn’t bring herself to admit that she looked forward to her nightly visits to see him, nor could she mention that she had changed her shawl twice before coming.
“To choose a marriage partner for such a reason is quite absurd,” Damien continued. “Your Highness, it is unwise to let the opinions of others sway your decisions.”
