Her father wasn’t telling her anything new, but that didn’t stop a fresh wave of regrets and fears from clawing to the surface. She struggled to focus on the practical rather than the emotional side of her father’s announcement.

“Maybe you need to consider me your new apprentice,” Cassie suggested. “Let me work beside you so I can learn as much as I can.”

“I would like that, but first, we need to upgrade your security. The guard normally assigned to your personal safety is still in the hospital, and our royal guard is understaffed.”

“I have someone in mind.”

His eyebrows lifted. “You barely know the members of the royal guard. Who did you have in mind?”

“Someone new. Levi.”

“I doubt the Meridian royal family will be happy if we poach one of their security people.”

“He already agreed. In fact, he’s probably still sleeping down the hall.”

“What?”

“I put him in the west room.”

“Here? In the residence?”

“Yes. He makes me feel safe, and I didn’t want him staying on the other side of the palace.”

“Cassandra, you know we can’t set this kind of precedence. If we treat one servant in such a way, it will create an air of favoritism that will undermine the loyalty of our staff.”

“Will it help if people think he’s my boyfriend?”

“Yes, but I don’t want to put you in the position of creating new fodder for the tabloids.”

“I know, but Levi is special to me,” Cassie said. “He was the head of security at the chateau and was preparing to transfer when he was asked to be my personal bodyguard.”

“And you offered him a job here.”

“Yes. I’d like for you to meet him. When you do, I think you’ll approve of my choice.”

“Your choice for a bodyguard or for a boyfriend?”

“Both.”

Alejandro studied her for a moment. “What is your relationship with Mr. Marin?”

“We’re still trying to figure that out, but I care for him, and he cares for me,” Cassie said. “I think you’ll like him.”

“I look forward to meeting him.” King Alejandro rose. “In fact, there’s no time like the present. Invite him over. We’ll have breakfast together.”

“I’m not sure he’s awake yet. We got in late.”

“Then wake him.” He looked at the grandfather clock that read six. “I’ll give him time to properly prepare. We’ll eat at seven thirty.”

“Yes, Papa.” Cassie took a step toward the door.

“Before you go, will you call the kitchen and order breakfast?”

“Of course.” She noted her father’s tie, which was slightly askew. “I’ll also help you with your tie.”

“It’s good to have you home.”

“It’s good to be home.”

CHAPTER 32

Levi startled when his alarm went off. He hadn’t expected to sleep so soundly, but within minutes of his head hitting the pillow, he had drifted off and hadn’t moved until the notes of “La Vida Loca” invaded his peaceful slumber.

Levi showered and dressed, choosing one of the suits he had purchased while living in Meridia. Having room and board paid for had allowed him to greatly improve his wardrobe, something he had needed while working for the royals.