In Bed With Her Shithead Boss (By Ellie Wynters) novel Chapter 285

Definitely a test. Keira kept her voice steady. "Change is inevitable. The key is making sure it serves the people rather than destroying what they value."

"An interesting perspective." Was Mitchell here to test her as well? If he was, she wished she had known that before she and Alexei had their little moment on the plane. How embarrassing if the king found out.

They rode in silence for several minutes after that, the countryside gradually giving way to suburbs and then to the outskirts of a city that looked like a perfect blend of old and new. Ancient buildings stood alongside modern offices, connected by tree-lined streets.

"That's the capital," Mitchell said as they entered the city. "Population just over half a million."

The streets were busy but not chaotic, filled with people walking, cycling, or riding in trams that looked vintage. Keira found herself watching the faces they passed, wondering what these people thought of their royal family, whether they even cared about the scandals and headlines that dominated American tabloids. Would they think she was a shameless hussy? Who had trapped the beloved prince or rogue prince as some in the press called him. Let's not forget the playboy prince. She knew he hated that title.

The palace appeared gradually as they wound through the city center, its towers and spires rising above the other buildings like something from a fairy tale. As they drew closer, Keira's breath caught. It wasn't just beautiful… it was massive. Ancient stone walls stretched for what looked like city blocks, with elaborate gates and towers that spoke of centuries of tradition.

"The Palace," Mitchell said unnecessarily. "Home to the royal family for over six hundred years." Keira hated to think about the cost of heating a place so big.

The motorcade passed through the ornate gate guarded by soldiers in dress uniforms, then continued up a tree-lined drive that seemed to go on forever. Perfectly manicured gardens stretched in all directions, dotted with fountains and sculptures.

When they finally stopped in front of the main entrance, Keira felt completely overwhelmed. The facade was intimidating in its elegance, three stories of weathered stone, enormous windows, and architectural details. She half-expected trumpets to announce their arrival.

Mitchell got out first, then held the door for her. "Miss Warner, welcome to the Royal Palace."

She stepped out onto gravel that had probably been perfectly raked that morning, looking up at the imposing entrance. Staff members waited at precise intervals along the steps, their faces blank.

They were led through a series of corridors that showcased the palace's incredible wealth and history. Tapestries that were probably priceless, and furniture that belonged in a museum. Keira felt like she was walking through a very exclusive museum. Was Buckingham Palace like this, she wondered.

Finally, they stopped outside a set of double doors guarded by two men who were in uniform. The official with them knocked once, waited for permission, then opened the doors.

"His Majesty will see you now."

Keira's heart hammered against her ribs as she followed Alexei into what was clearly the king's private study. The room was smaller than she'd expected, but no less impressive: floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, a massive desk, and windows that offered an excellent view of the palace gardens.

And behind the desk, rising to greet them, was King Theodore of Wystovia.