The Academy For The Aces: BOOK 1 OF THE ACE SERIES

Chapter 17

Chapter 17

"So, Prince Andrew, what is it that I must help you with in exchange for your assistance?" Faith questioned. Andrew turned to her and lifted a brow.

"Hmm.." he pondered and she chuckled, and looked at him amused

"Ah, yes, of course, my ponderings are amusing," Prince Andrew retorted, rolling his eyes playfully. "I do try my best to entertain you, Miss Holmes. It's part of my princely duties, you know."

Faith couldn't help but grin at his sarcastic response. She appreciated his wit and the way he effortlessly lightened the mood. Their playful banter was becoming a delightful part of their partnership, adding a touch of humor to their investigation.

Faith raised an eyebrow, curiosity gleaming in her eyes. "No really. What do you want me to do?" she asked, half-expecting another playful remark from Prince Andrew.

Andrew leaned back against the bookcase, tapping a finger against his chin with a thoughtful expression. "Well, since you offered," he said, a sly grin forming on his lips, "This weekend, I'd like you to accompany me to The Royal Enchantment Gala," Prince Andrew announced with a flourish. "It's an extravagant affair hosted by the royal family, held once a year in celebration of our kingdom's rich history and traditions. The gala is a grand display of elegance and opulence, where nobles and eligible suitors gather to honor our heritage and, well, to see and be seen."

He leaned back against a nearby bookshelf, a faint smile playing on his lips. "It's a charming affair. Lavish ballrooms adorned with shimmering chandeliers, musicians playing enchanting melodies, and the finest cuisine from renowned chefs—it's a spectacle of its own. But," he added with a hint of mischief in his eyes, "for us, it'll be an escape from the tedium of mingling with a throng of eligible ladies vying for my attention."

Faith chuckled, intrigued by the picture he painted. "And how does one escape such attentions at a gala filled with curious and eligible suitors?"

Prince Andrew's smile widened. "That's where you come in, Miss Holmes," he said, his tone tinged with playfulness. "With you by my side, posing as my date, I'll be able to navigate through the crowd more discreetly. People will be too captivated by your enigmatic presence to bother about my marital prospects."

Faith raised an eyebrow, considering the plan. "And what if someone recognizes me? I may not be well-known among the elite, but I wouldn't want to cause any trouble for you."

"Don't worry," he assured her, "you'll have a disguise, and I'll make sure you're introduced under an alias. As far as anyone is concerned, you'll be a captivating mystery, and it'll make the evening all the more intriguing."

Faith found herself both amused and intrigued by the idea. Being an academy student, she had never imagined attending such a grand gala. The prospect of being part of a royal event was thrilling, and the chance to share in this experience with Prince Andrew was enticing.

"Alright, Prince Andrew," she finally agreed, "I'll join you at the Royal Enchantment Gala. I'll help you escape from the tedium of mingling with a throng of eligible ladies vying for your attention"

He grinned, appreciating her adventurous spirit. "It's settled then. Our little secret affair amidst the grandeur of the gala. I have a feeling it'll be a night to remember."

"A night to remember you say?" Faith smiled.

"Oh, you know, Miss Holmes," Prince Andrew replied, a glimmer of mischief in his eyes, "with your captivating presence by my side, how could it be anything less than unforgettable? The eligible ladies might find themselves wondering who this mysterious enchantress is, stealing the prince's attention."

Faith chuckled at his playful remark, "Oh, I'm sure they'll be utterly baffled," she retorted, matching his tone. "But don't worry, Prince Andrew, I promise to keep the curious on their toes with my enigmatic allure."

Their banter filled the room with lighthearted energy, and Faith couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement at the prospect of attending the gala with Prince Andrew.