“Give me a minute to get these loaded,” Levi said. “I’ll come get you when we’re ready.”

The princess stood. “Before you go, can I ask you a question?”

“Of course.”

“What’s your name?”

“Levi Marin.”

She extended her hand. “It’s nice to meet you, Mr. Marin.”

Not sure what had prompted the formal introduction, he took her hand in his, noting the softness of her skin. “Nice to officially meet you too.”

* * *

Fear and doubt once again churned through her as Cassie mustered all her energy to adopt the calm facade she had been trained to wear in public. She followed Levi to where Garrett and Janessa stood by a simple sedan, her luggage nowhere in sight.

Garrett waited for her to reach him before he spoke. “Levi will take you the rest of the way.”

“The rest of the way where?” Cassie asked.

“To our home in Bellamo,” Garrett said. “Janessa and I will spend the next few days at the palace to draw any paparazzi away from the chateau where we live.”

“Then what?”

“You will be our guest as long as you want,” Garrett said.

“Or as long as my father wants,” Cassie corrected, already feeling more like a prisoner than a guest.

“A suite has been prepared for you,” Garrett continued. “Levi can show you around and answer any questions you might have.”

Cassie swallowed her frustration and reminded herself that these people were doing her a favor. She let a little piece of her public mask chip away. “Thank you for your hospitality.”

“Of course.” Garrett took his wife’s hand. “We’ll see you in a few days.”

Cassie watched the couple walk toward the dock.

“Ready?” Levi asked.

“Yes.” She approached the car and waited by the rear passenger door. Levi passed her and opened the front door.

“Sorry. The back is full of luggage.”

Though not accustomed to sitting in the front, she stepped forward and slid into the passenger seat. When Levi took the seat beside her, she said, “I thought you would have had more security here.”

“I had my men do a sweep before we arrived. They’re stationed on the main road.” He started the car and turned around before heading for the opening in the trees.

“Your men know I’m here, then?”

“No. They think they were securing the area for Prince Garrett and Princess Janessa,” Levi said.

“I see.” Cassie wasn’t sure what to think about the idea that her safety had been entrusted to only one man. Forcing that thought away, she asked, “What am I supposed to do while I’m in Meridia?”

“Whatever you want. Enjoy the pool or the stables. Go for a walk in the gardens, or go to the beach.”

Her body stiffened. “Is that how you think royals spend their time? Lounging around in the sun all day?”

“Not at all. In my experience, royals work far longer and harder than most people realize,” Levi said. “That doesn’t change the fact that it’s in your best interest to stay off everyone’s radar for as long as possible.”