Marco sat in the easy chair watching Madison pack the last of her clothes. She folded her new dresses, wrapped them in tissue paper, and put them in her suitcase. They cost $2700, leaving her $1500 cash, after the purchase of shoes. She didn't offer to return the money. He watched her sullen face. Even as she pouted, he wanted her.

"I'm glad you understand, Madison," he began. "My people are concerned about our being seen or photographed together so early in our relationship. That's why we want you to fly back separately." First class, with a limo to the airport and a limo to your apartment and $10,000 worth of gifts in your luggage. The cash you pocketed. What more do you want? A private jet? That won't be enough to please you. Marco knew Madison had always been the desired one, men, and women, too, attending her like worker bees to their queen. She was in Sebastian's hive now—he was king.

A face-to-face call from Popi, and a long talk about Popi's desire to abdicate in a few years in Marco's favor if—if, and only if, Marco proved he was ready for the responsibilities of ruling the principality. Popi knew about the ruby star ring. His anger was only revealed by his cold, clipped voice. Marco remembered that dreadful conversation.

"If you must have this woman, do so discreetly, and get her out of your life. Drusila is exactly the woman I would like to take Alma's place as Princess Consort of Almurias. More, Drusila genuinely likes you. If you lose Drusila, I will delay my abdication. I understand the lifestyle of a young man with your opportunities. I was in your place once. But, my dearest grandson, you are the future Prince of Almurias. You must begin to behave respecting that."

"Yes, Popi, I understand. I will keep Madison in the shadows." If you don't like it, Madgirl, you're out. He promised himself, ignoring his reservations.

"Mijo. I love you. Vaya con Dios."

"I love you, Popi. I will make you proud."

"Are you listening? Marco!" Madison shook his shoulder.

He jerked, the memory of Grandfather's call fading. He nodded.

"I just thought our being together was as important to you as it is to me. If you cared, you'd—"

"Don't." He stiffened. "I have duties greater than my desires."

Madison, ever cunning, realized she'd gone too far, too fast. She backed down. She wasn't yet as sure of him as she needed to be. "It's just that it's been such a good trip, driving up here together, leaving the hurricane behind. I wanted to be with you again on the drive home."

"Dolores is flying home and you must go with her. We'll be together in Charleston."

"Where? At school? My apartment? The only members of your family I've met are Dolores and Alexei. He acts so polite, but makes me feel like, like a tramp." Her lower lip wobbled and she noticed with satisfaction he grew worried. "I swear he choked when he saw my ring." She held her hand up. The star ruby flashed. Marco winced. The red ring was a mistake.

"He doesn't," Marco lied. "Alexei is my cousin and best friend. He is wary of strangers taking advantage of the family. He doesn't know you."

"I'll do as you say, Marco. I want you to be happy." She saw him relax. "I'm your friend. More, I hope." She gave him the slow, lingering gaze that worked so well with so many other men. She relaxed when she saw his erection.

"More." He took her hand and pulled her closer. "Yes, we can be more."

She straddled him.