Infuriating woman. Protocol is for others to learn and adhere to. There is no protocol for how a King is to behave with a beautiful woman wearing only a string bikini in his private library. What was grandmother thinking?

Of course, as a man I knew exactly what to do and therefore I couldn't do it. The effort it took to hold my hands to my sides and keep my eyes directed at her eyes and not let them wander up and down and around those curve and dive in between those perfect breasts that looked like twin bowls of chocolate ice cream. I had to swallow just to keep myself from salivating all over the floor like a dog.

No woman alive has had that power over me and she wielded it within moments of her arrival. I could not keep my thoughts from wandering in her direction. I was King. King of Delta Ohr. My brother, the Prince, was the reckless one. He was the one I had to keep my eye upon.

Yet the moment these women arrive all bedlam ensues: running in the halls, curtseys more like gymnastics and every possible lack of decorum. That mother has raised a harem of improper ladies not suitable for court. Gwendolyn. I open the bar and select a decanter, pull the crystal stopper and take a long drink of fiery amber liquid just to loosen my tongue which betrayed me along with the rest of my body.

Good Gods, I have just drunk directly from the decanter. Have I lost my mind? I remember how I had to retreat behind my desk to cover my erection. Then she followed me and I had to suddenly sit down with only a book for cover. Such a deep betrayal. Even my body is mutinous. I am King and I will not suffer this indignity. I ring for the butler to bring me my brother, immediately.

While I wait, I pour myself a scotch in a proper glass and one for Rupert. Throw in the icy perfect cubes and listen for the perfect chime against the crystal. I slowly pour the amber goodness and watch it splash upon the rocks.

My hand grasps her breast and gives it a tentative squeeze, it is perfect. Soft, full, resilient and compliant. A body I desire more than I knew it was possible to desire. Why oh why does that body belong to her?

I lift the glass and toast to its promise of relief and also swiftly pray, 'Save me from that woman and her completely seductive body.'

I still feel completely turned inside out when Prince Rupert comes in with a jaunty smile. He takes one look at me and instantly asks, "What is the matter? Are you unwell?"

"Just a bit of indigestion. I needed to have a word in private with you about our guests. In particular, I would like to hear more about how you and Dora came to be, uh, well, engaged?"

"Isn't she the most beautiful woman you have ever seen?"

I raise my eyebrows and tilt my head in a generally favorable direction. No, that would be her step-sister who drives me to distraction. "She is most lovely and seems to dote upon you."

"I've never met a woman so perfect. I know it was sudden but both of us feel the same. Love at first sight, I never would have imagined how powerful and true it is."

"That's just it. It is visual and on the surface. Her smiles and sweetness serve to keep the illusion going. What do you really know about this woman? How can you be sure that she is the one you want to spend the rest of your life with? Remember, as royalty, we are not allowed the luxury of changing our minds, once our allegiance is sealed."

"I know. All my life I have lived with playing at love like romance was an amusement park. I quickly tire of the fireworks and sensations and move on. But Dora is different. We are so alike. I've never felt so comfortable in my own skin around anyone in my life. I am devoted to her and she feels the same. We couldn't be happier or more in love. Its beyond what I ever expected love to feel like. I want to marry Dora right away."

Well that changes things. Clearly my brother is not going to be dissuaded by cautionary remarks. It would be fruitless to remind him that in the past he has been fickle. "I am happy for you, Rupert."