"Of course you did," Carrick added, smiling quietly. "Who wouldn't want your friendship? Were they all wolves or were any of my fellow bloodsucking nightwalkers allowed into the hallowed halls of the palace?"
He grew more serious. "Why did you leave the military? I've always thought that the English royals stayed in for life." He rolled onto his side to be able to look at Russel properly. "Would you ever go back to it?" He leaned forward for another soft kiss. "Or has my Prince become too much of a rebel?" He moved closer to take Russell in his arms once more.