The King's Daughter (High Born Book 1) Read Online Free

he nods to me before taking his position. I actually feel bad that he has to follow me everywhere, but it is his job and I honestly feel safer with him here. I regret not bringing a book, this is the perfect reading spot and I make a mental note to bring one out with me whenever it is a lovely day like this. I close my eyes, contented, leaning my head up towards the sun and let my skin soak it up. Taking a deep breath, I feel myself finally relax. This is just what I needed.
    It is very peaceful, but when I notice my father’s mistress I decide it is time to move on. My guard follows me to the stables, but before I enter, I stop and face him, “I’d like to be alone in here.”
    Without a question, he nods and then turns to stand guard at the door. I step inside, smiling as soon as I catch sight of the many horses the castle has. I head straight to where my horse is kept. Beauty, is the horse my father gifted me when I entered court. She is beautiful, hence her name, she is here and I have not had much opportunity to spend time with her. As I begin to stroke her soft black coat, I hear a rustling and panic. Anyone could be in here.
    “Oh, hello,” I turn to see a young man as he comes from around the back of the stables. He is so tall and very handsome. My heart speeds up at the sight of him. He flashes me a smile as he steps closer, and I feel myself smiling back. How could I not? Bright white teeth show and his dimples pop as his smile widens.
    “I did not know anyone was in here,” he runs his hand through his dark hair and I have to shake myself from the daze I seem to be in.
    “No it’s fine,” I smile. “I just wanted to see the horses.”
    His face relaxes and it’s then I notice how bright his blue eyes are, they stand out from where I stand so far away. His broad shoulders and wide frame make him seem a strong man, one that would protect his Lady in any circumstance. His accent is strongly noticeable as Scottish and I wonder what he is doing here. He smiles at me, “I can understand that, a pretty girl like you should not be alone though.”
    His comment about me being pretty makes me want to giggle, but I hold it back. I am pleased he finds me attractive. Such a huge change from Antonio, “I have friends waiting for me outside. I just wanted a minute alone.”
    I get the impression that he does not know who I am.
    “I shall leave you then,” he begins to turn and I realise that I do not want him to leave.
    “You’re Scottish,” I point out and he stops in his tracks, smiling back at me. Those dimples show again and I begin to feel a little hot.
    “That I am. I am here visiting relatives and decided to help out.”
    I cannot lie, but I find myself gravitating to his accent. It is rather lovely.
    “That is very kind of you,” I offer. I’m smiling again and I do not know why, this conversation seems oddly intimate but we are not talking of anything improper. I am acting responsible, even though I am alone with a very handsome man who seems to be effecting me a lot.
    “I like to do what I can,” he wipes his hands on his trousers and I take those few seconds to try and calm my beating heart.
    “Have you been here long?” I think to ask.
    “Not too long, but I am not planning on heading home just yet,” he winks and it sets my heart off again. I place my hand over my heart, and try to fan my face with my hand. He gives me a funny look and I get the feeling he knows the effect he is having on me. He is a very good looking man, he must have many admirers and know the signs of a girl who is appreciative to his handsomeness, “Are you ok?”
    He reaches his hand out to me, and when he touches my arm I become very aware of his hand. I swallow thickly, hoping my throat does not sound too dry, “I am little light headed.”
    “Would you like to sit down?” He offers, staring down into my eyes and I see that there are so many different shades of blue in his eyes. They are truly beautiful.
    “No,