The Return of the Sheikh - By Kristi Gold Page 0,2
note to work on his manners. “Now that we’ve established you know who I am, do you understand why I’m here?”
He leaned back and streaked a palm over his shadowed jaw. “You are here at my brother’s request, not mine. According to Rafiq, you are one of the best political consultants in this country. If your reputation holds true.”
If his reputation held true, she had her work cut out for her. “I’ve worked alongside political strategists in successfully assisting high-profile figures with public perception.”
“And why do you believe I would need your assistance with that?”
Okay, she’d draw him a picture, but it wouldn’t be pretty. “For starters, you haven’t been back to Bajul in years. Second, I know there’s concern that you won’t be welcomed with open arms when you do return to assume your position as king. And last, there is the issue with the women.”
He had the gall to give her a devil-may-care grin. “You cannot believe everything you hear, Ms. Foster.”
“True, but many people believe what they read. Therefore, it’s imperative we convey that you’re focused on being an effective leader like your father.”
His smile disappeared out of sight. “Then I am to assume you wish to mold me into the image of my father.”
She found the comment to be extremely telling. “No. I want to help you build a more favorable image of yourself.”
“And how do you propose to do that?”
Very carefully. “By reintroducing you to your people through a series of public appearances and social events.”
He inclined his head and studied her straight-on. “You intend to invite the entire country to a cocktail party?”
She could now add sarcastic along with sexy to his list of attributes. “The social events would be private. I’ll include only those in your close circle of friends and your family, as well as members of the governing council. Possibly a few foreign dignitaries and politicians and perhaps some investors.”
He grabbed a pen from the desktop and began to turn it over and over. “Go on.”
At least he seemed mildly interested. “As far as the public appearances are concerned, I have a lot of experience with speech writing,” she said. “I’d be happy to assist you with that.”
He frowned. “I have a graduate degree in economics from Oxford and I am fluent in five languages, Ms. Foster. What makes you think I cannot compose my own speeches in an articulate manner?”
Nothing like stepping on his royal pride. “I’m sure you’re quite capable, Your Highness, which is why I said I’d assist you. What you say and how you say it will be extremely important in winning over the masses.”
He tossed the pen aside and released a gruff sigh. “I have no reason to engage in political maneuvering. In the event you haven’t heard, my position is already secure. I was chosen to be king, and my word is the law. I am the law.”
“True, but when people are happy with their leader, that makes for a more peaceful country. And we have less than a month before your official coronation to change your country’s opinion of you. During that time, we’ll cover all the details, from the way you speak and act to the way you dress.”
He sent her a sly, overtly sensual smile. “Will you be dressing me?”
The sudden images flitting around Madison’s mind would be deemed less than appropriate. They even leaned a little toward being downright dirty. “I’m sure your staff can assist you with that.”
“It’s unfortunate that’s not among your duties,” he said. “I would be more inclined to agree to your plan.”
As far as she was concerned, he could put that charisma card right back into the deck. “Look, I realize you’re used to charming women into doing your bidding, but that tact doesn’t work with me.”
He gave her a skeptical look. “If I decide to accept your offer, would you be willing to stay on after the coronation?”
She hadn’t expected that question. “Possibly, if you could afford to keep me on staff. My services aren’t cheap.”
He released a sharp, cynical laugh. “Look around, Ms. Foster. Does it appear I’m destitute?”
Not even close. “We can discuss the possibility later. Right now, we need to concentrate on the current issue at hand, if you’re willing to work with me.”
He studied the ceiling for a moment before bringing his gaze back to hers. “The answer is no, I am not willing to work with you. I am quite capable of handling my own affairs.”
She wasn’t ready to give