Royally Kidnapped by the Prince novel Chapter 53

THAYER

“Son, where are you? You’re supposed to land two hours ago?” Right on time. We just touched down. The reverse thrust break roared against the airstrip.

“I apologize, Dad, but we just landed.” I unbuckled my seatbelt. Ash and Lud were already on alert, gathering the luggage from the bin.

“You never call me dad if you won’t apologize or ask a favor, Thayer.” He inhaled audibly to the mouthpiece.

“You’re right, Dad. I’m not asking for a favor, though, but an understanding from you. And you know exactly where I am right now even before we land.” I climbed down the airstairs. The memories of how I met Kennedy sprung in my mind.

“Very well, then. Are you going to see your grandfather?”

“Yes. That’s a part of my plan. Any message you’d like me to relay to Grandfather?”

“Just tell him that we can’t wait to see him.”

“I’ll relay your message, Dad.”

“I won’t get in the middle of whatever you’re planning. Good luck. And Thayer?”

“Yes, Dad?”

“I’m proud of you,” he said before the line went off.

My heart melted. I barely heard those words, and coming from my father, it was a fulfillment.

“Is everything okay with the call?” Ash asked, opening a car door for me.

“It’s even better than okay. That was my father on the phone.”

“Let me guess. He’s not impressed.”

I looked at Lud in the passenger seat. “Quite the opposite, actually.”

He chuckled. “Wow. The stars are aligned, and the universe is in favor of you, Your Highness.”

“I haven’t done anything yet. Don’t be too cocky. Let’s head to the hospital first.”

The King was indeed improving. He was still in the hospital bed but alive and talking.

“My boy.” He was still slightly slurred. That part of his brain was affected by the stroke that affected his speech.

“Your Majesty.” I bowed my head. “I’m so happy to see you, Grandfather.”

He gestured his weak hand for me to come closer.

I kissed his hand and his head. “I missed you. I’m so glad that you are well.”

“So that you can’t marry?”

“What are you saying, Grandfather?” I took a seat on the chair beside his bed and held his hand. “How’s your appetite? I will bring some soft food for you.”

“Don’t change the subject, Camren. Don’t wait until I die.”

I chuckled and smiled. “Of course not. I want to get married to the woman I love while you’re watching me reading my vow. That’s a promise.”

“Then what are you still doing here?” He hit my hand, narrowing his eyes at me. Well, he was strong now. I could see that.

I laughed softly. “Asking for your blessings.”

“Silly boy. I know about Kennedy, the American girl. She came to visit me.” He paused.

My brows shot up. “She came to visit you?”

“She asked my blessings. I played the video. Good woman.” There was pride in his eyes.

“What did she say?”

“Stop talking and get married. That’s my last wish.”

“Grandpa, don’t say something like that.” I squeezed his hand.

“I’m not going to die now. Now go. Make me proud.”

“Father said he can’t wait to see you.”

He slightly nodded.

“I love you, Grandpa. I promise I’ll make you proud. And I will grant your wish.”

I left the hospital with a smile on my face. I still had a lot of things to do. If there was one thing I was quite sure of, was Kennedy wouldn’t ask the King’s blessings if she never loved me.

I knew I let her down. I hurt her again. If my plan would work, I had all my life to make up for her.

“Is this the house?”

Ash parked the car in front of the two-story modern ranch house. “That’s the address.” He climbed out and scouted the area before he opened the door to me. “Good luck.”

“You both are coming with me.” I walked towards the main door.

Ash and Lud followed me, carrying a ruggedized laptop in his sling bag.

“Just knock already. You’re killing me with the suspense,” Lud said. His hands in his pockets.