“How much farther?”

“We’re almost there.”

“Do you have one of those things to pull your hair back? It might help to hide who you are.”

“No, but I don’t need one.” She combed her fingers through her long hair and proceeded to tie it in a knot to create a ponytail. She then retrieved a pair of sunglasses from her purse and slid them into place. “How’s that?”

“Good.” He turned into the long drive leading to the chateau and stopped at the security booth long enough to offer the proper paperwork to bring Cassie inside.

After he passed that obstacle, he instinctively reduced his speed so he could enjoy the scene before him. The French-inspired architecture of the chateau included towers and turrets, manicured gardens, and a wide lawn.

He entered the circular drive and stopped at the bottom of the steps leading to the main entrance. One of the wooden double doors opened, and Martino, the chateau manager, emerged.

Tall and distinguished, the older man reached the car as Levi climbed out. Levi handed him his car keys. “Can you please have the staff bring in her luggage?”

“Of course.” Martino lifted a hand and waved at the butler who had followed him outside.

Levi circled to the passenger side and opened Cassandra’s door. He offered his hand, her long, narrow fingers grasping his as she placed her feet on the ground. Despite her casual clothes, the moment she stood, her regal posture left no doubt as to who and what she was.

Levi released her hand. “This way.” He escorted her into the spacious entryway, past the enormous great room, and up the sweeping staircase. He stopped at an open doorway on the left. “This is yours. If it doesn’t suit you, I can ask Martino to make other arrangements.”

Cassandra walked through, her steps slowing as she passed by the cluster of chairs that created a seating area, a couch opposite them.

She didn’t look through the doorway to her right but crossed to the window seat. “I can see why Garrett and Janessa choose to live here. The views are stunning.”

“Yes, they are.” Levi continued farther into the room. “Although, I imagine you have similar views from your bedroom window.”

“Of the ocean, yes, but not of the gardens.” She pushed one of the gauzy white curtains farther to the side. “Could we go for a walk down there?”

“I thought you would want to settle in first.”

“It’ll be a few minutes before my luggage is delivered,” Cassandra said. “Besides, wouldn’t that be a normal thing to do? Take your girlfriend on a tour of your home?”

“I guess it would.” Levi motioned to the door. “I’m ready when you are.”

“No time like the present.”

* * *

King Alejandro pushed the pain that radiated through his leg and into his torso to the back of his mind. He needed to know his daughters were safe, and he despised being forced to rely on others for that information.