Free Ancient Guardians: The Uninvited by S. L. Morgan Page B

followed Navarre, Allestaine, and Elizabeth into the Hamilton’s home. Once in the grand foyer, the emperor and his family were greeted by King and Queen Hamilton, the hosts of the evening. King Hamilton, with his usual wit, managed to engage them all in a short, humorous conversation before the group was escorted into the large reception area. After numerous formal introductions to many different kings and their queens, Allestaine brought Reece and Elizabeth off alone and began introducing Reece to some of her closest friends.
    Levi and Harrison stood in conversation with their fathers while the guests awaited the announcement for dinner. From where he stood, Levi had an excellent view of the entire room. His eyes focused intently on Reece, watching in humor the numerous expressions that crossed her face. His heart swelled with love for her as he watched her animated personality radiate from across the room. The different women that she was being introduced to seemed impressed by her, and Levi understood why. There was something extremely unique about Reece’s outgoing personality; she could make any stranger feel comfortable in her presence. Her kind heart, high-spirited nature, and friendly personality drew people to her; not only on Earth, but also here in this room of royals. For the first time in his life, he found himself enjoying one of these ostentatious celebrations.
    “I’ll say,” King Hamilton said as he came up from behind Levi and clapped him on his shoulder, “I do not believe I have ever witnessed Levi appear so…” His eyebrows knit together as he studied Levi’s face in humor, “so bright-eyed at a ball before.” He finished with a teasing grin.
    “That, my lord, is because Miss Bryant has never been in attendance,” Harrison said with a laugh.
    Levi pursed his lips in humor. “True.”
    King Hamilton grinned and addressed Harrison. “Surely the next surprise to be heard throughout all of Pemdas shall be when you settle down with a lovely lady of your own.”
    Harrison rolled his eyes as King Nathaniel, and Navarre laughed in unison. “The odds of you capturing a three-headed dragon are better than you seeing Harry settle down.” Nathaniel teased.
    “Not the analogy I would use, father, but I believe your point is well-taken.”
    Levi remained quiet and watched Reece discretely while the men continued to tease Harrison about his prejudices towards relationships. Dinner was announced, and the multitude of guests began filtering into the dining hall. Levi quickly made his way to Reece, and they followed behind the emperor and empress into the large room.
    Levi noted the glint in her eyes and her bright expression. “You appear to be enjoying yourself, Miss Bryant.”
    “Indeed, I am, Your Imperial Highness.” Reece teased as she smiled up at his amused expression.
    Levi laughed and subtly rolled his eyes at her formality. He brought his hand up to cover the hand she had on his arm. “It appears as though we need to get you out of here before all of these Pemdai formalities start to take over.”
    Seating had been pre-arranged by the evening’s hosts, situating the guests sporadically amongst each other. This was a common practice at social affairs in Pemdas, the intent being to encourage the guests to make new acquaintances.
    Levi dutifully escorted Reece to a seat that was across the table and adjacent to where he would be sitting. He cringed when he saw the young man whose seat was next to hers. How could Prather have possibly been invited to this event? His lips tightened, but fortunately, he concealed his expression of irritation when Reece glanced up at him. He offered her a reassuring smile, and then strode over to his seat. After King Hamilton gave a quick greeting to the evening’s guests, they were all seated, and the staff began bringing out an abundance of food.
    As Levi ate, he politely interacted with the two young women seated on either side of him; but he was also keenly