Chapter 1
The smell of coffee fills the air as Valeria Davenport stretches. She stands from her bed opening her curtains to see the beautiful Sierra Nevada Mountains. She smiles to herself loving the view and the simplicity of her life in the small town of Virginia City, Nevada.
“Come on Val, we have a lot of work to get done before all the city folk get here later today and the benefactors arrive.”
“Coming. Gosh, Jax give me 5 seconds to wake up. I hope that coffee’s for me since I can’t technically be called a person until I’ve had at least 2 cups,” Valeria says, laughing at her best friend, Jax Coulter.
Jax met Valeria in college. He’s an only child and close to his mom since his dad left them when he came out of the closet at the age of 15. Ever since then, he’s been a momma’s boy. He’s very down-to-earth but fun to be around. Valeria and Jax have been best friends since their 5th year in college. Valeria finished with a Veterinary Ph.D. specializing in equestrian studies. Jax dropped out after getting halfway through. Valeria finished her Ph.D. in a record 9 years. Usually, a Ph.D. like hers would take 11-12 years but she knew what she wanted and has a special connection to the horses she encounters.
Jax hands Valeria a large cup of coffee as they sit at the small table in their kitchen. “So how do you think it will go with all the donors coming to see our work?”
“If everyone does their jobs, it will go great. We have a good team here and the wild mustangs are arriving today just before the donors, so it might get interesting.” Valeria smiles since you always have to have a plan B when working with wild horses.
“I’m going to head down. We have to finish cleaning the stalls and the last baths of the horses that will be going to new homes today,” Jax says, placing his cup in the sink.
“I’ll be there in a few. Don’t work too hard!” Valeria says as Jax leaves, making him scoff and laugh.
Valeria looks around their small apartment that is located just above the stables of a large horse rescue facility. The apartment has two bedrooms, two baths, and a nice-sized living room and kitchen. The perfect size for her and her best friend to share and there is no rent. Valeria stands and puts her mug in the sink then returns to her room to put on her normal work jeans and calf-high boots with a light t-shirt since the heat is killer in the afternoon. She checks the mirror, sees her long brown hair a tousled mess, and decides to wrangle it into a ponytail. She looks one last time into her green eyes, giving herself a smile before heading out.
Valeria met a man named Max Lovato several years ago when she first moved to Virginia City, Nevada. He owns the Lovato Ranch and runs Hearts and Hooves Horse Rescue from the ranch. They take in horses who have been injured in some way and nurse them back to health before finding them new homes, kind of like the humane society does with cats and dogs. They also find horses in the wild and tame them.
Valeria has always had a passion for horses since she was a child and decided to pursue her veterinary degree to specialize in equine studies. Max offered her a position at the rescue shortly after she arrived in the area. She started working there as a volunteer and became a paid employee shortly after she realized that they had no veterinarian on staff. She loves helping the horses and working with them every day.
Valeria makes her way through her normal duties of checking the horses and getting the holding pens ready for the new horses. Jax helps her set up the medicines and equipment she will need when the horses arrive to be able to check them thoroughly. The horse trailers arrive with the wild horses as an entourage of vehicles enters the parking area near the stables.
Three sleek black SUVs with little flags on them that she has never seen before sit idling as the horses are unloaded from the trailers and led into a holding pen. Valeria is coming from the office when the driver of the trailer drags a horse from inside that is trying to move but has been hurt badly.
The driver pulls out a pistol, making Valeria scream at him and run at a sprint to reach the horse but before she can reach it, the pistol discharges and the driver kills the horse. Jax hears the shot and comes running out of the stables just as Valeria shoots past him.
“Valeria, stop!” Jax yells but all Valeria can hear is her blood thumping in her ears.
“You murderer!” Valeria screams as she slaps the man across the face and pushes him in the chest.
“Why did you do that? This is a rescue, not a slaughterhouse.” Valeria continues to scream at him as she kneels by the mare closing its eyes. “How would you feel if we shot you just because you couldn’t get up?” Valeria pushes him in the chest, vaguely aware that he is twice her size. She is screaming and hitting him when she feels strong arms wrap around her waist, pulling her away from the man.
“Val, calm down,” Jax says, holding her back from the man who looks more than irritated.
“Damn you, Jax, let me go. Now!” Valeria says as she pulls at his arms.
“No, not until you calm down. You know that horse had a very small chance of making a full recovery,” Jax says sadly since the horse had extensive damage to its legs.
“It doesn’t matter. He had no right to be so cruel!” Valeria yells, continuing to struggle against Jax until the driver has pulled off.
“Let go, Jax.”
“Fine.” Jax lets her go and she storms over to the horse.
“Val, let it go; the horse was too far gone.” Jax gives her shoulder a squeeze.
“That may be true but there are other ways to ease the horse’s pain. We could have put it to sleep rather than shooting it. I’m going to speak with Max about this,” Valeria says turning on her heel and heading into the office past the idling SUVs to speak with Max, the director of operations for the facility. Jax sighs and tells a couple of the guys to bury the horse while he
gets the rest settled and fed.
Valeria storms into the office to find Max on the phone. Max sees her face and ends his call shortly.
“What’s wrong, Val?” Max asks, confused, not having heard the commotion outside.
“I’ll tell you what’s wrong. That driver that just brought the horses decided to shoot one of them because he didn’t think it would make it! I didn’t even get a chance to assess the damage!” Valeria huffs, tapping her foot, fuming mad.
Max sighs and sits back in his chair. “I’ll talk to the driver but things like this happen and you know they do.” She sighs and plops down in a chair in front of his desk.
“I know, Max, but the horse was here. Why wouldn’t he let me check it and then if we decide the horse was too far gone, then you know I would have put it down. I’m not cruel,” she says sadly, her hands still shaking from the adrenaline coursing through her veins.
He nods his head and walks to the holding pen with her to see the new wild horses. Valeria walks on to the horses as Max is greeted by a man in a fine black suit. He greets the man with his corporate smile and motions to the office. Valeria turns to the horses, not wanting to get involved in the business end of things as the rest of the SUVs unload.
She busies herself with the horses, assessing their general health and wellbeing, and is excited to find that a couple of the mares are pregnant. Jax is as thrilled as she is because these will be the first foals born since they started at this facility about two years ago. They get the horses fed, assessed, and separated into pens by gender then shut down the pens for the night. The benefactors of the facility are starting to arrive so Jax and Valeria retreat into their apartment to dress for the evening’s tours and lectures about the progress of the facility.
Valeria emerges from her apartment 30 minutes later in her green work shirt provided by the facility paired with tight black riding pants and black boots. She will be showing the benefactors her progress with one of the sponsored wild horses, Sir Dugale. She heads down to the indoor arena while Jax heads to the stables to retrieve Sir Dugale. She waits at the side of the arena while the benefactors file into the seating area above. A group of suits catches her eye since they all look exactly alike and move in sync with each other, making her laugh and shake her head.
Jax arrives with Sir Dugale; having placed a training bridle on him, he hooks him to the side wall in the arena. She smiles as Sir Dugale kicks and grunts in the arena as he always does, showing his rebellious side.
She steps out into the arena and Sir Dugale is immediately aware that she is there and is attentive to her every movement. She turns to the crowd keeping Sir Dugale well within sight.
“Ladies and gentlemen, thank you for coming this evening. The horse you see before you was rescued from the Nevada desert and placed here with us for care and training. His name is Sir Dugale, he is a black wild mustang that grew up roaming free from all humans and he is about 16 hands tall. One of the taller mustangs we’ve encountered.” Valeria turns to Sir Dugale, making eye contact with him like she has many times in their sessions. She walks slowly toward him, picking up the lead. As she speaks to him softly and strokes his nose for comfort, she leads him around the arena with the lead for a few minutes to establish that she is the leader.
She walks Sir Dugale to the edge of the arena and unclips the line. She looks him in the eyes and takes an assertive stance. Sir Dugale nods his head a few times but does not retreat. So, Valeria puts her hands up and Sir Dugale backs up slowly from her. She walks until they are in the middle of the arena. She turns to walk back to the edge of the arena and Sir Dugale follows at a respectable distance. She smiles at him, knowing that he is showing off since they have practiced a lot.
She grabs the lead and walks around Sir Dugale to the right, allowing him to continue to follow her. She stops and turns, walking to the side of Sir Dugale. She throws the line out behind him and he begins to circle her. She continues to do this for 5 or 6 circles then turns blocking his path with her body making him go the opposite way.
As they continue, Sir Dugale begins to lower his head and make his circles smaller. He also begins to lick his lips and his inner ear is locked to Valeria’s position, letting her know that Sir Dugale no longer sees her as a threat or a predator. She has earned his respect. She immediately drops eye contact and softens her body language. She places her hand, fingers closed, on her stomach as she steps a little in front of the horse turning her back to him. She takes a couple of steps away from him and he follows slowly. She smiles as she turns to him, rubbing his head between his eyes and stroking his neck. Sir Dugale is docile now and very compliant.
Valeria reconnects the lead to Sir Dugale and leads him to the edge of the arena.
“Six months ago, no one could touch Sir Dugale. He was a true wild mustang. He is still a truly wild horse but all wild horses, even Sir Dugale, respond to respect and love. With mutual respect and love, we have achieved his docile nature and he is now ready to carry a rider.” The crowd gives a round of applause and exits the arena. Valeria, having finished her part for the evening, takes Sir Dugale to the track to allow him to run off some of his energy.
She sets his saddle and hops on. They run for about six laps and walk for the seventh. Valeria can see figures in the distance of people watching. She grumbles a little as she hops off the horse and leads him out the second entrance and into the stables from the back. She unsaddles Sir Dugale, wiping him down after his run, and gives him an apple since he did so well.
Valeria sighs as she finishes locking up the stables and is greeted by a smiling Jax and Max. “What are you two up to?” Valeria asks, wary about their answer.
“You are not going to believe this Val. I’m so stoked for you!” Jax rushes to say, barely understandable with a big grin.
“What is he talking about because all I got was Chinese,” Valeria says with a smile, looking at Max.
“I may not be the best one to explain but there are a few men that would like to speak with you,” Max says, motioning to the office. Valeria sighs and walks to the office. She is greeted by three men in suits, making her roll her eyes. She stands with her hands folded as Max files in behind her and makes his way behind the desk. Jax stands with Valeria, anxious. Max motions to everyone to sit but no one does, making him sigh.
“Valeria, as you know, Sir Dugale is sponsored by the Royal family of Florien. These gentlemen are here to represent the royal family and have a proposition for you.” Max motions to the gentleman.
Valeria raises an eyebrow. “What proposition?”
“Ms. Davenport, the royal family has a vested interest in your work. You graduated top in your class and finished your Ph.D. in less time than ever recorded. The royal family is requesting that you come to the palace and be their onsite Equine Veterinarian. They will provide room and board along with a healthy salary and allowances.” Valeria’s mouth is hanging open by the time they finish. She is speechless and doesn’t know what to say.
“The royal family has also agreed to make a very large donation to the facility if you accept,” Max says as he looks at her.
Valeria squares her shoulder. “Why are they interested in me?”
“The royal family has watched your progress with Sir Dugale as well as having reviewed your qualifications from college. They believe that you are the right person to take care of their horses. Also, a member of the royal family admired your passion and courage this afternoon when the gentleman shot the horse.” Valeria is even more shocked now.
“Do I have time to think about it?” She asks nervously.
“The royal plane is set to leave tomorrow evening. You have until then to
decide. There is an added 50,000 dollar bonus if you decide before we
leave here tonight.” Valeria looks at Jax who is grinning like a thief.
“Girl, if you don’t take it, I will give you so much hell you’ll wish you had.
This is your chance, Val. To get out there and make a difference and some crazy money. Plus, it will get you far away from here and the douchebag,”
Jax says knowing that Valeria wants to be as far away from her ex-husband as possible, since she put him in jail for 10 years, almost 7 years ago.
Valeria sighs, “Fine, I’ll do it. But I need time to get my things together and say goodbye to my horses.”
“Of course ma’am, you need not bring any uniforms or riding gear since it will all be provided along with a wardrobe allowance.” The man who has been talking the entire time hands her a card with the Florien Royal seal and a number. “Call this number and a car will pick you up. But, please remember you have to be ready by 11 am.” Valeria takes the card, not believing she’s doing this. The three men exit the office only for one to reenter a few seconds later to hand her the employment contract. He then turns on his heel and leaves. Valeria stares at the contract for a few seconds then at Max and Jax.
“Am I really gonna do this? I have lost my mind,” Valeria says as she stares at them.
“Yeah you’re crazy but we’re right there with you,” Jax says with a smile.
“Of course. Just imagine what you could do with so much money and you know that as long as I’m the director here you have a job. You’re too good at what you do, but I don’t feel as bad losing you to a royal family,” Max says with a smile.
“Ok, I guess this means I need to pack. Since they are providing my clothes I won’t need to take much; do you mind if I put my stuff in the upper loft in the barn for storage? I imagine you’re going to need another Veterinarian to live on-site with Jax.”
Max smiles at her. “Didn’t Jax tell you? He’s going to finish school and according to the equestrian school here he only has about 6 months to be considered an Equestrian Veterinarian because of all the field work and schooling he did before.”
Valeria turns to Jax. “You sneaky dog. You didn’t tell me. I’m going to be able to leave here relaxed and happy knowing that you’ll be taking care of my babies out there,” Valeria says, punching him in the arm and then pulling him into a hug.
“Ouch, yes, I love you, too,” Jax says, hugging her back.
“Well, I’ll go pack then. I don’t have much time,” Valeria says as she heads to her apartment and packs her things. Jax helps her as much as he can and with Max allowing Val to leave her things in the apartment she only packs what she wants to take.
Chapter 2
Jax and Valeria sit on the couch and watch a rerun of “I Love Lucy” as she goes over the routine for each of the horses. By 3 am, Jax is exhausted and tells her he’s going to call it a night. Valeria sits up a little longer but eventually falls asleep on the couch.
As daylight peaks through the window, Valeria is up and ready to go. She has finished packing and doing a little research on the Royal family of Florien and the country itself. She now knows that there is a King, queen, two princes, and one princess.
Also, that they are not like most monarch families; they love to meet and greet their people and have said on more than one occasion that if their children marry, it will be for love and this is something she can respect. She admired the pictures of the King and Queen but there are only blurry pictures of the Princes or the Princess; nothing to show what they look like.
Valeria takes her bags down to the driveway and leaves them. As she takes a long look around her with a deep breath, she sighs and makes the call to the driver, letting them know she is ready. She makes her way through the stalls, saying goodbye while she waits. She arrives at Sir Dugale’s stall and stands there a little longer. She rubs his mane and face like she normally does since she has made a stronger connection with him than with the other horses. He rubs his head into her shoulder. She says goodbye and is coming out of the stables just as a large SUV pulls up.
Jax appears with Max from the office and hands Valeria’s bags to the driver.
She hugs Max and thanks him for everything then she looks at Jax who is tearing up.
“No tears Jax, please. I’m not leaving forever; I’ll come home to visit and if you need me you better call, ok?” Valeria says, hugging her best friend. Jax sniffles.
“Ok see ya later, alligator.”
“After a while, crocodile,” Valeria says with a smile as she gets into the SUV and drives away.
The driver watches her intently in the rearview mirror making Valeria feel just a little uncomfortable and when that happens, her mouth opens.
“So what time is our flight leaving?” She asks, startling the driver.
“Since you have agreed earlier than expected, our flight plan has been rearranged to leave within the hour.” Valeria’s eyes get wide as he speaks.
“Within the hour? That soon?”
“Yes, was there something else you needed to do before we leave?” the driver asks with concerned eyes.
“No, no it’s ok, I have everything I need; I just thought we would be leaving later this evening is all.” Valeria sits back in the seat and watches her home disappear into the wind.
They arrive at a private airstrip a few hours later and board a luxurious private jet.
“Wow, I knew royals had money but this is crazy,” Valeria says as she sinks into the plush captain’s chair seat.
“Everything ok, Miss? Would you care for anything before takeoff?” the stewardess asks kindly. Valeria smiles.
“No, thank you. I don’t think my nerves will let me eat anything right now.”
The stewardess retreats as several men in suites board the plane. After everyone is seated and the plane is in the air, Valeria is feeling a little awkward since no one has spoken to her except the stewardess. She curls into her chair and puts her headphones on putting her playlist on repeat.
The plane ride is not long at all making Valeria wonder what they are doing. The man who picked her up notices her confusion. “The royal plane is at this airfield. This is just a charter jet, not suitable for oversea travels. Also, a couple of members of the royal family will be aboard the plane as well.” The man nods and exits the plane. The four other men wait for Valeria to exit the plane before following her. She rolls her eyes and her nerves amp up just thinking about meeting a royal.
She boards the plane, takes the seat they tell her to and waits, watching out of her window. She sees several SUVs pull up before the middle one stops on the red carpet now lined with military personnel from the US. The military serves as a color guard for the royals when visiting the states or so the man explained to her. She watches as the doors to all the vehicles fly open and a tall man with dark black hair emerges in a perfectly tailored suit. Even from a distance, Valeria can see he is gorgeous and way out of her league. He is followed by a young woman with dark brown hair in a flowing violet dress. She has a kind face, smiling and waving to everyone. They walk to the plane and are saluted by the color guard as they pass and board.
Valeria secretly wishes she would have dressed better and done her hair for once. Valeria put on her normal attire of skinny jeans with brown boots that come up to her calf and a t-shirt with a small jacket; her hair is pulled back into her normal ponytail. She rubs her hands down her jeans to calm her sweaty palms as security enters the plane followed by the young woman who looks to be in her early 20s. She smiles softly at Valeria and then takes her seat in a plush captain’s chair in front of her.
The man enters the plane and everyone stands a little taller. He has to be someone important since power and confidence radiate from him. Valeria looks him over once then back up to his face and when she does their eyes connect. His stare is intense, almost hateful but his eyes are the most beautiful color of honey. She breaks eye contact and squirms in her chair just a little. The man says a few words in his native tongue and takes a seat in the chair on the opposite side of the aisle from Valeria. She sneaks a peak over at him and he is still staring at her like she is his worst enemy.
She takes in a deep breath then sighs as she turns to the window and watches as the life she’s known disappears.
The flight is 8 hours from where they are and she can only manage to sleep for 2. She stands, ignoring the constant evil stare from the man across from her and retrieves her bag from behind her seat. She has a secret passion for drawing, so she takes out her drawing pad along with the picture she has of Sir Dugale and begins to draw. He watches her intently as she draws until she is so engrossed in her drawing that she forgets he’s there. She finishes after another 2 hours and smiles at her picture, already missing her favorite horse.
She stands to put her things away when the plane dips unexpectedly and she falls face-first into the aisle. The man in front of her is on his feet in seconds, grabbing her arms firmly and pulling her from the ground.
“I’m sorry, I should have been more careful. Sorry,” she says as she stands with his hands on her arms. She feels a thrill of electricity flow through his touch that she’s never felt.
She steps back quickly and grabs her things as the young woman turns around and smiles. “Are you ok?”
Valeria smiles back at her question. “I’m fine. I should have been more careful. I’m sorry if I disturbed you.”
The young woman laughs at her response. “Nonsense. I’m Madison andyou must be Valeria Davenport, the new Veterinarian for the horses that my brother told me about.” Valeria smiles and nods as she puts her things away. She turns to find the man seated but still staring at her. Valeria smiles shyly and sits back in her seat.
Madison looks at Valeria’s expression and then at her brother. “Alex, stop staring at her, you’re making her uncomfortable,” Madison scolds as she stands from her seat and takes a seat next to Valeria.
Madison pats her leg. “Don’t worry about him. That’s Alex, my oldest brother. He’s always in a bad mood lately, with our parents pressuring him to find a wife. But, I guess that’s what happens when you're the oldest and named the heir. I frankly enjoy being the baby of the family. He is usually very affectionate in private but distant and cold when in the public eye.”
Madison laughs, making Valeria blush since that information is a little personal. Alex coughs to cover his disdain for his sister’s comments and stands, going to the back of the cabin that houses an office and bedroom. “I hope you like Florien; it’s a beautiful country and our horses are as diverse as the people. Sorry, that part was way too rehearsed, but really, we have beautiful horses of every kind. We even have a few wild horses that need to be trained,” Madison finishes with a laugh.
Valeria smiles at her energy for life and her bubbliness. “Please, call me Val. I can’t wait to meet them. Sorry about your brother. I didn’t mean to upset him or anything. No one told me what the proper protocol is for treating royals,” Valeria says with a smile.
“Well, around me, you don’t have to do any of that formal stuff. I want us to be friends. But around my parents, now that is a different story. There are curtsies and nods of the head but most of all, you must not speak unless spoken to. I do it all the time and my parents hate it.” Madison laughs with Valeria.
“I just hope I make a good impression; not like with your brother, he seemed to not like me from the moment he saw me,” Valeria says with a nervous smile
“Nah that’s just public Alex. He’s great once you get to know him. He has that brooding mean face because he just spoke with our father and with him being the heir proper or next in line to the throne, the old man wants his son to be married and have an heir soon,” Madison explains with a shrug of her shoulder as the stewardess brings her a tray of fruits to share.
They sit chatting about how much Madison loves being a princess and everything that goes with it making her a total diva but super sweet and Valeria can tell she really enjoys being out among her people.
They talk about Florien, horses, and random off-the-wall things. By the time Madison drifts off to sleep, Valeria is certain she just made a great friend. She watches out her window at the passing clouds when Alex comes back to his seat. His face is a little calmer and his eyes kinder.
Valeria offers him a shy smile that he returns with a nod of his head. The rest of the flight is calm, allowing Valeria to sleep a little more.
They land in Florien at 7 am their time. Valeria watches the beautiful sunrise from her window as the plane circles to land. Madison gathers her things and is more than ready to get off the plane. Alex, on the other hand has become the cold, harsh-looking man she saw when they first boarded.
The security gets off the plane first as two SUVs and a Limo pull up to the plane. Madison leaves the plane first. Valeria waits, not sure what she is supposed to do. Alex raises an eyebrow at her as he waits for her to leave the plane. Valeria can’t take the silence anymore.
“Do you want me to get off the plane before you? I don’t know how this royal protocol is supposed to work.” The left side of his mouth quirks up in
a half smile.
“There is no protocol here Valeria.” Alex motions for her to go ahead of him. “Please.” She nods and grabs her bags, exiting the plane with Alex right behind her.
Madison is directed into the Limo. Valeria watches the security for clues about where to go and the security guard opens the door to the second SUV motioning for her to get in.
Alex grabs her arm and motions to the limo. “You will ride with us.”
Valeria steps into the limo thankful for Madison being there. Alex gets in as the door shuts and they are off. Valeria watches out her window while Madison talks nonstop about the different places as they go by. Alex is quiet and watches her every move. Valeria’s eyes widen as she gets her first glimpse of the beautiful castle.
“That is Mariendale manor, the royal family seat,” Madison says with a smile. Valeria admires the beautiful castle before her and the magnitude of the structure.
“It’s amazing,” Valeria says as the limo pulls through a pair of security gates into a central courtyard.
Alex gets out of the Limo helping Madison then turns to help Valeria.
Valeria takes his hand and steps from the limo, eyes wide, with a look of awe on her face. She looks around her, admiring the spires and beautiful stone façade of the building. Madison giggles a little, bringing Valeria into the present moment and making her realize she is still holding Alex’s hand.
“Sorry,” Valeria says as she removes her hand from his. He gives her an intense look, making her wonder if it's confusion or if she just made him mad. Alex walks to the wide front door and walks in, followed by Madison who has linked elbows with Valeria.
They enter the main door and the sight that she sees can only be described as a picturesque room. Flowers on every table, extremely large chandeliers, floors that shine like a brand new car, and a grand staircase that goes up several floors that branches off on each one. Madison pulls Valeria up the stairs to the second-floor guest wing.
“This is your room, Val,” Madison says opening the door to the guest suite.
Valeria enters and gasps. “All this is for me?” Valeria looks at the massive space that has a living room, a bedroom, a large bath with a Jacuzzi, and a closet bigger than her room at home.
Madison stands at the doorway watching Valeria explore the rooms. “Is this ok?” Madison asks.
“This is not ok, this is too much. I thought I would be staying in the service quarters near the stables or something. I lived in the apartment above the stables at home,” Valeria explains.
“Well not here. You are a guest and now my friend. So you are staying here.
Get unpacked and rest a little, they’ll bring you some food in a little while. Then if you’re up to it, the Captain of the grounds, Fredrick, will be able to show you the horses and the grounds. I’m so glad you’re here and I know we are going to be great friends,” Madison says, hugging Valeria and retreating to her room on the third floor.
Valeria closes the door and sighs, trying to take in all the grandness of her new surroundings. “Why did I let them convince me to do this?” Valeria asks herself as she unpacks the few clothes and things she brought. She texts Max and Jax, letting them know she made it safely. She takes a hot shower and is dressed in a pair of black skinny jeans with her black boots and a turquoise sweater since her research told her that the nights here get colder than at home. She curls into the massive chaise lounge and before she realizes it she has fallen asleep.
Chapter 3
Valeria is startled awake by someone touching her cheek. She jolts up, throwing whoever was sitting with her off the seat. It takes her a moment to clear the sleep from her eyes and focus on the person now standing beside her and his honey eyes roving over her.
“Alex?” Valeria says softly.
“I didn’t mean to startle you. I knocked but you did not answer,” he says firmly.
“What, so you decided to come into my bedroom? What if I was naked or in the shower? You may be a prince but you still have no right to come into my bedroom,” Valeria asks a little upset that Alex would just come into her room. Alex gives her a half smile, mischief twinkles in his honey-colored eyes.
“Your decency is still intact and with the other servants laying out your uniforms in the living room, they informed me that you were asleep and fully clothed.” Valeria opens her mouth to speak but knowing herself, she just shuts it again before her sarcastic side gets the best of her.
“I came to inform you that my parents would like to speak with you in the family study on the third floor. The third and fourth floors are for the royal family only unless you are with one of the family or your presence is requested,” Alex explains as he walks to the door. “The meeting is in 20 minutes. Someone will return for you then.” Alex leaves, shutting her door.
Valeria throws herself back onto the chaise and lets out a big breath. “Well, that was interesting.” Valeria puts on a little makeup and brushes her hair out to look presentable. She puts her hair up into a twist and her makeup is light, making it look natural. She is waiting by her bedroom door when a guard in uniform rounds the corner.
“Ms. Davenport, this way please.” Valeria nods and follows the guard to the third floor into an empty study. She stands, looking at the paintings of beautiful horses that line the walls. She feels as if someone is watching her, so she turns to find the doorway filled with security as a beautiful woman in an evening gown walks thru the door.
Valeria tries to speak but the words don’t come out. The woman smiles kindly at her as she proceeds into the room and sits in a winged chair by the fireplace. She is a tall slender woman with coffee brown hair and light toffee-colored eyes. She is dressed in a sunset orange gown that flatters her every curve. Valeria stands stock still, unable to speak. A tall man with black hair enters the room. He is dressed in a fine black suit with an orange tie, perfectly matching the dress the woman is wearing; along with an orange Sash lined in red and decorated with various medals. He sees the stunned look on Valeria’s face and gives her a simple nod and a quirky smile. Valeria still has no idea what to do, she assumes these are the king and queen. A man dressed in a formal uniform for the castle enters and stands directly in front of Valeria.
“May I present their royal highness’ King Stephen and Queen Sophia of Florien.” Valeria bows her head out of respect since she has no idea how this is supposed to work.
Queen Sophia waves the man off just as Madison makes her way into the study.
“Val, I’m glad to see you made it ok.” Madison gives Valeria a hug lightening the mood.
Valeria smiles and returns the hug while whispering in her ear. “Thank you, I’m a little lost here.” Madison steps back with a wink and grabs Valeria’s hand, leading her to the couch in front of the chairs and taking a seat with her. Alex is the last to enter in a tailored black suit with an orange sash across his chest with only a few medals. He nods but remains very serious and never makes eye contact with Valeria, making her feel very uncomfortable.
The King takes his Queen's hand. “We thank you for accepting the offer to come and care for our horses, Ms. Davenport. We hope you have been made welcome and we hope that you will be with us for quite some time.”
Valeria smiles shyly and looks at the King. “Thank you, I hope that I don’t disappoint you. I love horses and I will do all I can to make sure they are well taken care of. I have been made welcome since I arrived, thanks to Madison… Sorry, I mean the Princess. I meant no disrespect,” Valeria says, catching herself. Madison giggles at her, making the Queen scowl at her.
“Ms. Davenport, you are a friend here and while we will ask that you use our formal titles when there are guests and in public; here you are free to speak to us by name if you so choose. It has been lovely meeting you, Ms. Davenport, but we have a state dinner to attend. I hope you enjoy your evening. Your dinner will be delivered to your room.” The Queen and King stand along with Valeria and Madison.
Valeria nods her head. “Thank you, your majesties, for your kindness and generosity.” The Queen and King leave without another word.
Madison hugs Valeria. “I’ll see you bright and early in the morning. I like to ride early and I would love for you to come with me.”
“Of course.” Valeria waves goodbye to Madison and is left in the room with Alex. He is staring at the fire not making a sound or movement.
“I’ll just go if you want to be alone,” Valeria says, walking to the door.
“No,” Alex says, turning his attention to Valeria. “You do not have to leave.”
“Ok,” Valeria says, stopping just before reaching the door. “I’m sorry about the plane. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable or impose.” Valeria stares at her hands, fidgeting with her fingers.
Alex sighs with a little chuckle running his hand through his dark brown hair. “Surely, I should be saying that to you. I was not myself and for that, I apologize. Maybe tomorrow we can start again.” Alex turns and walks to Valeria. His presence making her take a step back.
“Of course. Tomorrow then,” Valeria says as Alex turns and walks out the door. Moments later a guard enters to escort Valeria back to her room. She receives her dinner that night in her living room and falls asleep shortly after thinking that maybe, just maybe she can start over in Florien.
The next morning, she wakes up before the sun rises. She showers and dresses in the riding outfit the staff brought her as a uniform. She eats an early breakfast of fruit and leaves her room to explore the lower floors. She wanders in and out of so many rooms, she loses count. There are several meeting rooms, offices, and party salons but the favorite room she finds is a rotunda with windows all around and a glass ceiling which is painted with horses that reflect onto the floor. Elegant stances and breeds in competition and several other poses. She stands staring in awe at the ceiling.
“There you are,” Madison says from the doorway across the room.
“Sorry, I was up really early and decided to wander. I hope that was all right.”
“I don’t mind and if you tried to go somewhere you’re not supposed to, I’m sure the guards would have let you know. Are you ready to ride?” Madison asks dressed in her riding attire.
“More than ready,” Valeria says with a smile as she and Madison walk out of the palace and onto the terrace in the back.
“The stables are over there and the fields and training arenas are right next to it,” Madison explains as they hop on a golf cart and head to the stables.
“We have many horses; Arabians, Thoroughbreds, and Mustangs. But my favorites are the Andalusian horses.”
“You do have quite an assortment of horses and each has a different quality that makes them special,” Valeria says as she and Madison head into the stables. Madison gives her the names of the horses but only a few stick out.
Ryles is an Arabian; Core, a mustang; Penelope, an Andalusian; Rax, a thoroughbred; and Palomina, an Andalusian. Valeria remembers these horses because of their firm demeanor and lack of trust in her.
“My horse is Ryles, go ahead and pick a horse,” Madison says as the stable hand saddles her horse. Valeria walks the stables one more time and decides she wants to ride Rax the thoroughbred.
“He’s a feisty one, are you sure Val?” Madison asks concerned.
“I haven’t met a horse yet that didn’t like me,” Valeria says with a smile as the stable hand saddles her horse. The girls mount up and head out of the stable only to run into Alex in his riding outfit. He looks at them
questioningly.
“Don’t look at us like that, Alex. You didn’t get here early enough and she picked your horse, sorry,” Madison says shrugging her shoulders.
“This is his… your horse? I didn’t know. I can pick another,” Valeria says as she dismounts.
Alex walks over to his horse who nudges him, making Alex laugh. “I think he likes you. Far be it from me to rob him of the delight of your company. You may ride him. I will take another today,” Alex says, holding the reigns while Valeria remounts the horse.
“Thank you. I’ll take good care of him,” Valeria says with a smile.
“I know you will.” Alex pats his horse once and retreats into the stables as Madison and Valeria take off down a trail. Alex mounts the Mustang, Core, and puts him through his paces on the trails. Madison and Valeria take a long trail around a large lake on the back of the property.
Valeria jumps a little when she hears a gunshot ring through the trees.
“What was that?”
“That was probably my brother, William; he loves to shoot. Don’t worry, most of the horses are used to the sound,” Madison says, pushing on.
Valeria follows at a distance as they turn towards the stables. Out of the corner of her eye, she sees someone following them. She urges Rax on and makes her way up beside Madison.
“There is someone following us,” Valeria whispers, making Madison look behind them.
“It’s probably the guards. Don’t worry Val, you’re safe here,” Madison says with a smile.
Valeria sees an overgrown garden on the way. “What is this place?”
Madison looks around and sighs. “This is where the old palace was before the rebels burned it to the ground and threatened to end the monarchs forever here in Florien. That was a long time ago.” Madison pushes past but Valeria looks closer and can see the ruins a little clearer. She resolves to return one day on her own to look around. They make it back to the stables and turn the horses over to be bathed and groomed.
“Well, I have to leave you now, duty calls. I have a plaque to unveil at the local fishery, so I’ll see you later.” Madison gives her a quick hug and takes off on the golf cart to the main palace.
Valeria acquaints herself with the stable staff and learns that two of the mares are pregnant. She continues to familiarize herself with the workings and the horses’ routines when a man with brown hair and a regal gait walks into the stables. The staff stops and bows as he walks past.
He walks past Valeria and notices that she does nothing as he walks by.
“Who are you and why do you not lower your gaze to your prince?” he asks sternly. Valeria stares at him, frozen by his harshness.
She looks into his grey eyes and regains her courage. “You are not my prince because I am not from here. I also don’t feel that a monarch should be above his people and look down on them simply because he was born into it,” Valeria says crossing her arms.
Williams's face turns bright red. “I don’t know who you are, girl, but you won’t be here for long. You will show me respect.”
“Respect is earned not demanded, your highness.” William raises his hand as if to backhand her.
“Brother!” Alex yells from the entrance to the stables. William lowers his hand and straightens his shirt.
“Alex,” William says as he turns to him. Valeria feels a little uncomfortable about the situation and tries to excuse herself but Alex places a firm hand on her shoulder.
“William, I would like you to meet our guest and new veterinarian to the horses, Dr. Valeria Davenport,” Alex says firmly. William nods in greeting but says nothing. Alex’s jaw tightens as he watches his brother’s actions.
William turns on his heel and leaves the stables.
Valeria exhales a long breath and turns to Alex. “I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to provoke him. I just… It won’t happen again,” Valeria says lowering her head as she turns to leave.
“Don’t apologize for him. He is terrible on a good day. He has middle-child syndrome making him have the need to prove himself to everyone and takes offense easily when his position is threatened. Once you get to know him, however, he’s very kind and considerate. If he ever raises a hand to you or anyone again, you will tell me,” Alex says firmly.
“Ok,” Valeria says giving him a small smile. Alex turns and leaves the stables. Valeria has had enough of the stables after that incident, so she heads back to the main palace. She makes it to her room and decides to take a shower before searching for Fredrick, the Captain of the grounds. She asks the guards where to find him and is directed to a small office outside the stables.
She knocks on the door.
“Come in,” a man yells from inside.
“Hello, I am…”
“I know who you are, Ms. Davenport. There is nothing I don’t know on these grounds. I’m Fredrick and I handle everything from security to supplies on the palace grounds.” He motions for Valeria to sit and hands her a list of her duties. Fredrick is a heavier man with grey hair, dark brown eyes, and large arms; giving Valeria a chill since she feels something about him that is more hateful than he lets on. “As you can see, you have quite a few duties to attend to and after you have finished them, your time is your own to do with as you please. Please remember, you must be available at all times for emergencies with the horses,” Fredrick says as he hands her a new iPhone, fully charged. “This phone has all the royal numbers; including the stable hands, the palace, and mine. Only use the palace number, if no one else can be reached. You may go now. Be sure to get your duties handled and if you have questions, ask.”
“Thank you,” she says softly as she turns and leaves. “Whew, that was intense, he is not nice at all,” Valeria thinks to herself as she goes down the list. She begins her duties and continues well into the evening.