“Yes, sir. I’m very sorry,” Levi said. “And I’m sorry I denied you the opportunity to tell her in your own way, but we had to explore every potential motive against your daughter. The ascension to the throne was a logical possibility.”

“And you have since discounted that possibility, favoring the idea that profit was behind the assassination attempt.”

“One doesn’t necessarily exclude the other.”

“So you think my daughter may still be in danger even after the announcement of the drilling rights is made.”

“I think it is my job to be diligent and explore every avenue to ensure your daughter’s safety as well as the safety of you and the rest of your family.”

“I appreciate that sentiment.” King Alejandro set aside the papers he held. “Tell me, how did you come to uncover the information about my illness?”

“I’m sorry, but I can’t reveal my sources, even to you.”

“You’re doing a lot of apologizing,” King Alejandro said.

Levi didn’t respond. For Cassie’s sake, he wanted to be on good terms with her father, but regardless of Levi’s loyalties, he couldn’t abandon the fundamental truth that compromising sources was the fastest way to lose them.

King Alejandro tapped a finger on his knee. “Does my daughter know you are intelligence?”

Levi battled the instinct to deny it. The king might not know Levi was CIA, but the information they had discussed this morning had already revealed he had knowledge that went well beyond what a security guard would be able to access. “Not exactly.”

“Which leads me to my next question. What are your intentions toward my daughter?”

“My intention is to do everything I can to keep her safe and happy.”

“I find it interesting that you put her safety before her happiness.”

“As do you,” Levi said. “Otherwise, you wouldn’t have sent her to Meridia.”

“True,” King Alejandro conceded. “I am more concerned about your personal relationship with my daughter. After speaking with her this morning, I suspect she has developed feelings for you.”

Though his first reaction was to demand privacy in his relationship with Cassie, he had to remind himself that this wasn’t only the king but her father too. “I have feelings for her as well. I don’t have to tell you that your daughter is a bright, talented, and intriguing woman.”

“And beautiful.”

“She is that too,” Levi agreed.

“You have worked with the royal family in Meridia for some time.”

“That’s correct.”

“Then you know the pressure that comes when a royal develops a relationship with anyone, particularly a commoner.”

“I am aware.” Levi straightened. “I am also adept at staying out of the spotlight. Believe me, I have no interest in bringing unnecessary attention to your daughter or our feelings for each other.”

“Are you prepared for the aftermath of what will happen if your efforts are unsuccessful?”

“Probably not, but I’m willing to deal with whatever comes. Your daughter is worth the effort.”

“I couldn’t agree more.”