The Man's Outrageous Demands Page 0,10
his head and laughed. She was overflowing with her fury.
His laughter only increased Marabeth’s anger. “I’m glad you think independent and free thinking women are humorous, Mr. Montrose. But let me assure you that every person who works in this palace and has children appreciates the flexibility that this center gives them. And we appreciate the dedication that flexibility gives us. We’re able to accomplish many things for the people of Cordova and that is partly due to this center and the peace of mind it gives to the men and women who entrust their children to its care.”
She was about to walk out on him but he caught her arms and held her still while he gained control of his laughter. He took a deep breath and looked down into her angry eyes. “I’m sorry, Marabeth. I honestly respect and appreciate all the women and men, who work in the palace and I understand the need for a place where they can know their children are safe and learning while they work.”
Marabeth felt her mouth hang open but she couldn’t seem to close it. She was too shocked at his words and the feeling of warmth that washed over her at his words of support. “Then, what was all that sexist gibberish a few minutes ago?” she finally got out.
Sam chuckled again, loving the way every emotion flew across her face. “I have to apologize. You’re just too beautiful when you’re angry. You’re eyes turn a dark blue and your cheeks become a soft pink. You’re eyebrows come down over your eyes and you just become very passionate about your cause.”
She wanted to punch him again. What was this tendency towards violence when she was around him? “You mean you were just baiting me?”
Sam nodded but knew better than to let his guard down around her. She was beautiful, but also full of emotion and he was wary of her next step, although also anticipating it with relish.
Instead of punching him, Marabeth just stormed away, mumbling under her breath about something that he couldn’t decipher but he heard the words “obnoxious” and “male” before the door closed behind her.
Sam stood up and walked to the door, eager to see her walking down the hallway. She had a very feminine walk. She held herself regally, but with a slight sway to her hips that enticed at the same time it set her apart from other women. He liked it. In fact, he realized that he liked pretty much everything about this woman except for the fact that she had to be married quickly for political purposes. Sam had discussed Marabeth’s situation for a short time with Max and he was now cognizant of the fact that King Stephan was actively searching for someone appropriate to marry his daughter.
Each time he thought of that, it irritated Sam. So he decided to stop thinking about it and come up with a way to get back into the lovely lady’s good graces. That was definitely going to be a challenge after the spurt of anger she’d shown just a few minutes ago.
Sam sighed as the woman turned the corner and was out of sight. He didn’t know how he was going to do it, but he’d never backed down from a challenge yet.
Sam presented himself in front of the king at the requested time. The king immediately called Sam into his office as soon as he was told that Sam was waiting.
“Good afternoon, your majesty,” Sam said, bowing slightly.
“I hope it is going to be. Have a seat,” King Stephan said and waived him over to the set of chairs placed in one area of his office. “Tell me you’re going to take over the position and show us all how it is done,” he said
Sam sat back and looked at the king. “Yes. If that is the area you feel I can help the most, I’ll be happy to do my best.”
“Fantastic,” King Stephan said, then stood up and went over to a bar that was inconspicuously kept in the corner. scotch, bringing one over to Sam. clinked Sam’s glass.
“Let’s celebrate,” he said and poured two glasses of “To an improved military,” King Stephan said and
Sam drank to the toast, then looked over his glass at his ruler and new boss. “I have some ideas for how to improve but they are a little unorthodox.”
“Well, let’s sit down and discuss them. I’m eager to hear your ideas,” the king said.
They sat and