Page 55 of The Romance Adventure
I guess I also got outstanding marks in the kissing department, even though it hasn’t been that long for me. But I don’t want to think about Dax right now.
Nope. This moment belongs to Royal, me, and the stars above.
After smooch number two, we rest on the blanket. Royal remains on his back, gazing skyward, and I tip onto my side, facing him. This time, it’s not to study him for a work of art, more like I want to know more about who he is, so the outside can reflect the inside when I paint his image.
“So, I’m wondering, where does your name come from? Royal and Ryan.”
“My grandfather on my father’s side was named Ryan, so my brother was named after him.”
“And you?”
“Obviously, I lost the name lottery.”
“I think Royal is cool. Makes me wonder about you, Mr. McMuffin, a man of mystery.”
He laughs. “I thought I was Mr. McGrumpy. For the record, I don’t get involved in emotions.”
“You mean you’re a robot?”
“I don’t think even with the most advanced technology, robots will ever be able to kiss like that.”
I flop onto my back with laughter. “Well, don’t you think you’re hot stuff?”
His chest quakes with an identical laugh. “You’re the one who gave me five stars.”
“Grumpy is an emotional state, not a lack of emotion, by the way.”
Instead of arguing with me, he says, “The story behind my name is what you’re after, eh?”
“Just curious.”
“What if I told you I was a prince, royalty?”
“I’d wonder just how heavy your crown is because you’re so grumpy.”
“Ha ha. What if I told you my parents thought Royal sounded good with Ryan?”
“I’d gently suggest that the name has distorted your ego.”
“Are you always so honest?”
“Just with you, it seems. You somehow draw it out of me.”
“What if I told you that I like how you hold your ground with me?”
My heart hiccups in a slightly different way than when Royal gazes at me, we touch, and during the kiss. This is less of a jump rope cardio workout and more like a soft yielding to invite the man closer. “I’d applaud you for letting me be your match.”
The look he gives me makes me think he let down his anchor and plans to stick around. We chat until the moon is high in the sky before packing up the picnic dinner date.
At least, that’s what I think it is because when he walks me back to the guest house, we seal the night with one more kiss.
Royal
CHAPTER 14
After the night on the pull-out couch, Ryan insisted we rent a house while we’re here. Not sure how long that’ll be. This morning, I was itching to get back to New York City. Tonight, I wouldn’t mind staying a while.
The only place we could get on short notice is on the other side of the island. As I drive back, even though it’s dark, it’s like the light of Isla’s megawatt smile shines on me. She’s sunshine. Being around her, I need SPF 50, at least.
