Chapter 92: The First Rule of Etiquette

It was nearing dinnertime when Laurel made it back to the castle. She walked up the stairs and knocked on Adolph's office door, hoping to catch him before dinner.

"Come in."

Laurel entered Adolph's office with a beaming smile as he set his quill on the table and stood. She closed the door behind her.

"Your Majesty, I am so glad I caught you. I was hoping to speak about the minister of commerce."

Adolph smiled, listening with half an ear about her findings regarding the kingdom's trade agreements. He'd organized several contracts that were higher than their predecessors, likely to secure a substantial amount of kickbacks.

"I think if we could check his tax records and audit these trade routes we'd have enough evidence to…"

She gasped, stumbling back against the door as he approached.

He lifted the pages from her hands and wrapped his arms around her.

"While I do enjoy your cunning and dedication to the downfall of those idiots, I ask you to indulge me as your future husband for a time.