He unplugged his phone and sent a text to Jeremy. When can we meet? I want to walk through the security upgrades as soon as you’re available.

Jeremy’s response came through within seconds. I’m walking the perimeter in fifteen minutes. Want to join me?

Where should I meet you?

The grand ballroom.

See you there.

He strapped his spare weapon to his calf and holstered his favored pistol at his waist. After checking to make sure neither was visible, he left his room and entered the main hall.

To his surprise, Cassie was approaching his door.

“Hey, there.” Levi started to lean in for a kiss, but the presence of the guard standing down the hall caused him to rethink that decision. “I thought you would sleep longer.”

“I needed to see my father.”

Concern came into his voice. “How is he doing?”

“He confirmed what you told me.” She glanced at the guard. “Let’s talk in your room.”

Levi opened the door and ushered her into the main living room. He waved a hand to encompass the generous space. “This suite is impressive. It’s as big as a house in most places.”

“I’m glad you like it.”

Levi heard the strain in her voice and, acting on instinct, pulled her into his embrace. Her body trembled, and he could feel her tension as she fought against her emotions. Levi pulled back so he could see her face. “Tell me how you’re doing. Really.”

“It’s hard. I look at him trying to pretend everything is normal, and part of me wants to go curl up in my room and cry myself to sleep so I don’t have to think about it.”

“And the other part of you?” Levi asked.

“Knows I need to spend as much time with him as I can, both as his daughter and as the heir to the throne.”

“You may need to let both parts of you have their moment.”

She blinked hard. “You’re probably right, but my practical side has to dominate today.” She rose to her toes and kissed him. “My father has requested we join him for breakfast.”

Levi wasn’t sure what to think about receiving a royal summons so soon after their arrival. “What time did he want us to meet him?”

“Seven thirty.”

“That’ll be tight, but I’ll see what I can do.”

Cassie pressed her lips together. “I don’t think you understand. If my father gives a royal command, he expects it to be followed.”

“I understand that, but my purpose for being here is to keep you safe,” Levi said. “I’m heading out with Jeremy in a few minutes to get the lay of the land while he does his morning sweep.”

“I appreciate your concern, but this is important,” Cassie said. “I don’t want your first meeting with my father to be one filled with disapproval.”

Torn, Levi opted for a compromise. “Where are we meeting for breakfast?”

“His private quarters,” Cassie said. “Across the hall from my room.”