If The Ring Fits.... Melissa Mcclone

curves. “Actually, it is lovely, but I am sure the designer did not intend it to be worn to bed. Come with me.” Richard opened the mahogany armoire in his bedroom. He searched through the clothes and pulled a button-down hunter-green pajama top from the hanger. “Wear this.”

      She ran her fingertips over the fabric. “It’s silk, Your Highness.”

      “Yes. Is there a problem?”

      “No, it’s beautiful,” she said. “I just don’t want to ruin it. Couldn’t I borrow a T-shirt?”

      “You will not ruin it.”

      “That’s what they all say,” she mumbled before walking into the bathroom and closing the door.

      Realizing he could not sleep as he normally did, he quickly changed into the matching pajama bottoms. Richard had not worn pajamas in years, just as he had never allowed a woman to spend the entire night with him in this suite. Well, he had never turned thirty before or had his engagement ring stuck on an American’s finger, either.

      A night of firsts.

      He wished it were over.

      The bathroom door opened. Christina stepped out, carrying her gown and matching pumps. The only thing he could see were her bare feet with her toenails painted a shocking pink. She laid the gown on a nearby chair, bent down and set her shoes on the floor.

      As she stood by his bed, Richard sucked in a breath, unable to stop himself from staring at her. Christina’s auburn hair fell past her shoulders, gently framing her face. Her beautiful face. The silky fabric brushed against the curves underneath. Her womanly curves. The pajama top fell midthigh on a pair of perfectly shaped legs. Her long legs. “You…you can have it now, Your Highness.”

      He wanted it all right. He wanted…

      Her.

      He could not explain the rush of desire, the overwhelming sense of needing her, but he did not care. She was here; he was here. Why not make the best of a bad situation? After all, it was his birthday. He smiled at Christina.

      Princess material, no. Lover material, yes.