Despite the previous day’s Crucible reenactment, Vee still felt this kingdom was her destiny. But when it came to my best friend, I was leaving no man—or in this case, no cheerleader—behind. So unless Prince Not-So-Charming came riding up on a golden unicorn and showered her with rainbows, she was coming home with me.
Vee’d been too busy ogling all the bright, shiny trinkets in the marketplace to notice Jamie shadowing us. Visions or not, he was far too bipolar to be a match for my best friend. She deserved a true prince—not some moody poseur with a crown. Yet, if I knew her, his conflicted Edward Cullen act would hook her faster than meth.
Duncan’s sunny disposition, on the other hand, never faltered. Worlds apart from the golden-haired prince with the tortured soul, our dark-haired benefactor possessed an unwavering heart of gold and a quick sense of humor. Both of which, to my disconcertment, were growing on me.
The afternoon had passed quickly with Duncan shepherding us around the village. In his brother’s absence, he’d even engaged Vee without being flirty. Duncan had also shared quirky little stories from his childhood and pointed out his most favorite places. No matter where he went, people greeted him like a beloved friend. He inquired after their families and promised to come round and help with various carpentry projects. Observing his interactions, I had no doubt every one of those promises would be kept.
If I’d met him on the stage, I would’ve instantly liked him. Heck, I’d have fallen like an avalanche of anvils—especially when he favored me with his smile. But in the not-so-real world, I did my best to keep a civil distance and not succumb to his charms. In two weeks, this would all be as distant a memory as a midsummer night’s dream.
But like my opinion of Duncan, my impression of Doon had grown more favorable with each interaction. I was beginning to understand why Gracie loved this place. It was ideal for dreamers like my aunt and Vee.
The little tavern we were in was a perfect example. The place smelled like heaven—like rising yeast, spices, and roasting meat—yet part of me remained skeptical the dishes could live up to the olfactory tease.
Vee closed her eyes and inhaled appreciatively. For a skinny thing, she sure loved to eat. As she seated herself next to Fiona, she grinned maniacally at the prospect of another fabulous meal. “So, what’s good here?”
Duncan and Fergus sat across from us, their faces mirroring Vee’s food lust. Fergus, who looked like he’d never skipped a meal in his life, licked his lips in anticipation. Perched proudly on his head was a green and blue plaid beret-like cap with a yellow pom-pom. “I’d say just about everythin’.”
As I opened my mouth to request a menu, Duncan interjected from across the table, “I shall order for us!” He caught my eye, his full lips quirking in a lopsided challenge.
“I’ve already taken the liberty of ordering, brother.” Out of thin air, Jamie appeared. He pulled back his Prince of Darkness hood and sat in the empty chair next to Vee as easy as if they’d known one another their whole lives.
Duncan rolled his eyes. His fun-loving demeanor wavered as he regarded his MIA brother. “Decided to join us again, did ye?”
Jamie returned Duncan’s stare with hard, defiant eyes and tightly set lips. “I had business to attend.”
“Really? I struggle to see what could be more important than spending time with your people.”
“I assure you, Duncan, my priorities were exactly where they needed to be.”
Vee’s hand flew to her mouth, her shoulders twitching with—laughter? Jamie’s twinkling eyes darted to her and they shared a secret smile. I had no idea when they had time for an inside joke, since I’d been glued to Vee’s side practically the entire day. Before I could ask what my bestie found so funny, a waitress with dark skin and a bright crimson sari approached bearing a suspiciously flat, round metal tray. Familiar garlic-scented wafts of steam trailed in her wake. I recognized that smell.