Ruthless King

His message was clear.

She sat without looking at either of them. A glass of water appeared in front of her.

“Sip. Slowly,” Regent told her.

Oh no. Was he upset? Embarrassed?

Trying to calm her racing heart, she sipped at her water. Regent continued to rub her back.

She put the glass down. “Um, morning.”

Lame. Really lame.

“Morning,” Victor said.

She snuck another look at him. He appeared stern and serious, but she thought she could see some warmth in his gaze. Maybe.

“I’m Jilly.”

“I know,” he replied. “I remember you. I’m Victor. Regent’s brother.”

“Nice to meet you. Sorry, if I realized someone else was here, I would have gotten dressed. And probably not have run in here like a lunatic.”

“You shouldn’t be running anywhere,” Regent said from where he stood beside her. “Clearly, you’re still not well enough to be out of bed. After breakfast, I’ll take you back up so you can lie down.”

“No!” she cried.

Both men stared at her and she felt herself growing red. “I’m fine. I’m sick of being in bed. I just moved too quickly, that’s all.”

“You shouldn’t be running inside.”

Right. She really needed some decorum. She couldn’t imagine Regent ever running around this pristine house in his pajamas.

Idiot.

You’re not at home now. You need to follow the rules of this house.

She just needed to learn them first.

“Sorry,” she said. “I won’t run around inside anymore.”

“Good.” Regent gave her a nod. “What would you like for breakfast?”

“Oh, just whatever you’re having. I can grab something.” She attempted to stand, but Regent placed his hand on her shoulder. “Stay.”

“I can get it for you, Miss Jilly,” Gerald offered, appearing out of nowhere.

She let out a cry, practically levitating off her chair. “Gerald! You came out of nowhere. I need to get you a bell.”

“Sorry, Miss Jilly.”

“Don’t worry, Gerald.” Regent waved the other man off. “I’ll get Jilly her breakfast. We’re fine serving ourselves.”

Gerald nodded and left.

Regent took the plate before her and moved to the side table, which she hadn’t really paid attention to.

But it had several bain-maries lined up along the top.