Page 161 of Unmasked

I removed the crown, letting the hood fall back as I took off the mask. She looked towards the men, grabbing my arm to lead me a few feet away. Her eyes searched mine for seconds before she spoke.

“You’re bulletproof. I get it. You’re safe. That doesn’t mean let your guard down. Expect anything at any time. Don’t let anyone lure you away from The Council. Don’t step into any dark shadows or down any random halls⁠—”

“Penelope.”

Her hand came up. “If he tries to get you alone, you take at least two Council members with you. At least. Don’t eat or drink anything if you can help it. Maybe I should get you a water to go.”

I laughed softly, leaning down to press my lips into hers.

“I will be safer than I’ve ever been. I will miss nothing.”

“You promise?”

My thumb traced over her bottom lip.

“And risk being parted from you so soon? Never.”

She nodded. “You better go.”

I lowered, not able to stop from kissing her longer than I should.

“I’ll be back early. I’m not staying longer than I have to. I put your pills in your purse. Take your medicine. You’re hurting.”

She nodded. “I’ll be waiting for you.” She reached forward, grabbing my mask. I lowered, letting her slide it back on. Her lips pressed to the metal, and she grabbed my hood, easing it over my head. “I love you.”

“I love you too. Always and forever.” I stood and placed on the crown, turning back to the men. Elec and Mr. Prescott put on their masks, and I smiled even if they couldn’t see. Theodore was right. Prophecy. And the message would escape no one. “It’s time.”

No line.

No hesitation.

From the moment Mr. Prescott’s car pulled up, guards rushed forward, opening our doors.

Cameras flashed in violent bursts. Reporters yelled.

“Mr. Masterson! Is that you?”

“Mr. Masterson, have you been in London for long?”

“Is it true you’re engaged to the former Duchess, Penelope Taylor?”

My black boots connected with marble as I stepped from the car. Mr. Prescott and Elec moved in on each side, their own masks keeping their faces partially hidden underneath their oversized hoods.

I gave the reporters nothing as I kept my stare ahead and my mouth shut. As we began walking, their shouts grew quiet. Cameras still flashed and their questions faded.

We were escorted through large ivory doors and into the palace’s entrance. Large crystal chandeliers rested above, and crimson carpet and marble filled the space. We headed down a hallway, not having to walk far before the guards led us through a large entrance.

Our heavy steps and presence echoed through the lounge area as guests turned one by one.

Conversations died.

A gasp sounded.

A woman stepped backwards right into a man and dropped her glass sending crystal spraying across the floor.

I kept walking, keeping my gaze focused on the large, open double doors to the ballroom ahead. Music poured from the room, and Mr. Prescott stepped up, closer to me.

“Are you ready?”