The Orphan And The Crown

29

GIA'S POV

Today, Kate and I are travelling to Saint Tropez with Alessandro and Rafael to attend Leonardo's Annual Summer party. The news and gossip over what happened with the prime minister's wife had died down a bit. Alessandro and Dad worked hard to shut down the news to prevent the business from suffering.

We found Alessandro already waiting inside his private jet by the hangar at the airport. He was typing away on his phone when he looked up.  Rafael was talking to the flight attendant (more like flirting with her).

Alessandro's blue eyes landed on mine and did a quick body scan, making my heart flutter. I was beyond excited to see him. I missed him since we hadn't seen each other for a week. He had a busy schedule due to fitting all his meetings and engagements this week so we could spend time in Saint Tropez. I was busy planning Dad's upcoming event. I was taking it easy since the doctor said I shouldn't do anything too overwhelming.

He got up from his seat and came over, embracing me in a tight hug. "I missed you, princess." He whispered in my ear, making me blush. His fresh, musky scent that had notes of citrus filled my nostrils, alluring me.

He lowered his head and latched his lips onto mine, cupping my cheek with his hand.

"If we're going on a trip together, can you guys at least consider me and not have a make out session in front of me?" Kate said, narrowing her eyes at us and we laughed.

"I'm with her on that." Rafael added, faking a disgusted look.

"Sorry." I replied, chuckling.

"This is the pilot speaking. We will be taking off shortly, please be seated." The pilot announced.

After flying for a few hours, we finally arrived in Saint Tropez. We went straight to Alessandro's holiday home and freshened up for the party. As we entered the large black, iron gates, I was in awe. The home looked massive with a tennis court and a huge pool outside. It was only a five minute drive away from the beach.

"Wow, this place is amazing." I said, staring at the house in awe.

"Glad you like it. We'll come here more often." Alessandro flashed me his charming smile.

A lady named Farah, the head of staff, came out to greet us with welcome drinks.

"Lunch is almost ready, your highness. I'll have the table set in no time." She informed him and he gave her a nod.

"I'll eat later. I'm going to rest. I need my beauty sleep before the event." Kate told us. Farah showed her to her room leaving the two of us.

"I'm going for a swim." Rafael informed us and we nodded.

"Are you hungry?" Alessandro asked me.

"Yeah, I'm starving." I replied. "Let's go have lunch. I had the chef make your favourites." He winked at me, making me blush. He took my hand and held it in his.  

When we got to the dining table, the aroma of the food made my stomach gurgle. I couldn't wait to try the dishes. There were tempura prawns, squid heads, calamari and fish with thin fries, salads and vegetables as sides.

"Mmm - this is so good." I muttered after swallowing my food. I cut another piece of fish. "This fish is so fresh, probably the best I've had."

He chuckled and glanced at me adoringly. "I'm happy you like it. I had my chef prepare it to your liking." He commented.

"Didn't know you were so considerate, people's prince." I grinned. "This was really good. I'd have dessert but I'm really full." I said, putting my fork and knife down.