“Restoring historical buildings,” Elizabeth said, her eyes brightening a little.
“That sounds like a worthy goal,” Scott said. “But where do I fit into this?”
Scott blinked in surprise. “What?”
“I told my father I’d marry the first man I saw. That’s you,” she said. “And thank heavens, you’re not homeless.”
Scott paused. “I might be soon.”
Elizabeth’s face fell. “So you need money? I’ll pay you whatever you want once my father releases my inheritance.”
Scott nodded. “Yeah, but I’m not for sale.”
“Damn!” Elizabeth muttered, burying her face in her hands. “I don’t know what to do anymore.”
After a moment of silence, Elizabeth studied Scott’s face. There was something familiar about him—his eyes, his smile. She squinted, trying to place him. “I know you, don’t I?” she asked, feeling certain now.
Scott grinned. “Didn’t think a princess would remember me that fast.”
Scott leaned back in his chair. “I’m the gardener’s son. I used to work for your father.”
Her eyes widened in recognition. “That’s it!” she said, her voice brightening. “I remember now.” She paused for a moment, then asked, “What would it take for you to agree to my plan?”
Scott’s expression grew serious. “My father’s in debt. They’re going to take our house if we don’t pay. I need the money, but I don’t want to sell myself. But maybe, I don’t have any other options.”
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