Instead, she tried to picture what songs she’d have to dance to. Thankfully, her sisters had taught her all the important steps. Granted, Reid had always taken the man’s part. But how hard could it be to switch over to the woman’s? What would it be like to dance with Dexter? Would everyone watch them, expecting to see two people in love? And how would Dexter treat her? In the training area, when he’d grabbed her waist to keep her from falling, his hands had been strong and steady. The thought of being held in Dexter’s arms as they danced sent a wave of anxiousness spiraling through Reid. She didn’t understand why she was suddenly so nervous.

After slipping out of bed, she tiptoed over to the window, then lifted the curtain to glance outside. In the sky, a sliver of the moon shone. Most buildings in the city were dark, everyone tucked safe inside their own homes. Everything seemed so quiet and still. Except for the man who strode across the front lawn, his black cape billowing behind him. Reid squinted, trying to get a better look, but the hood concealed his face. His shoulders were wide, his gait long. It could be a soldier heading home after his shift, but Reid didn’t think so.

When she’d scouted the palace, the sentries had been aware of her presence. She didn’t think much happened around here that Dexter wasn’t privy to. It was doubtful a guard would be crossing the lawn at this hour. Her gut told her it was Dexter. And that the sentries were aware of his movements. So where was he going this late and alone?

Ackley had given Reid an assignment—discover where the prince goes at night. Dexter’s midnight stroll had to be what Ackley referred to.

She considered changing, then running after him. However, Dexter had too far of a head start. She’d never be able to catch up. Not only that, but he would also know if someone followed him. Even if he somehow didn’t, the guards would spot her.

The Knights knew Dexter sometimes went somewhere at night, but they hadn’t been successful in finding out where. And if a trained spy couldn’t follow Dexter, Reid stood no chance. She’d have to get creative.

When Ackley tested Reid before making her a Knight, he’d sent her on a job no other Knight had been able to accomplish. She’d been successful because she’d used her ability to play the part of a man or a woman. Adapting to the circumstances, thinking quickly, and being able to talk her way out of any situation had allowed Reid to succeed.

She released the curtain, the fabric sliding shut. Once she’d climbed back into bed, she tried to figure out how to solve the mystery.

Chapter Eight