Markis smiled. “That’s what I thought. Prince Dexter and Gytha have been pretty cozy with one another for over a year. We expected them to announce their engagement. I was shocked when he told me we were coming here to fetch his fiancée. I was even more surprised when I recognized you.”

She had a suspicion about Dexter and Gytha being romantically involved. However, to have it confirmed disturbed her. No wonder they both hated her so much.

“You’re Duke Ellington’s daughter, yet I saw you in the City of Radella by yourself.”

He was fishing for information, but she had no intention of giving him any. “I think I’ll turn in for the night.” With a nod at him, Reid stood and headed toward her tent. Instead of going inside, she glanced at the fire, making sure everyone was still there. When she didn’t see anyone paying her any attention, she went around to the backside of her tent. No one called out or came running after her, so she headed toward the cover of the trees.

Reid had two goals in mind—to relieve herself and to destroy the paper outlining her assignment. Tossing it in the fire would have been ideal. However, she hadn’t wanted anyone to see her do so. Someone might have asked questions she couldn’t answer. Not wanting to stray too deep into the forest since it was dark and she didn’t want to get lost, she headed parallel to the tree line. There had to be a water source nearby. Otherwise, Dexter wouldn’t have chosen to set up camp here with the horses.

“Where are you going?” a voice demanded, startling Reid.

“None of your business,” Reid replied, discreetly making sure the note was still hidden in her bosom before turning to face Gytha.

“You are my responsibility. Go back to camp. Now.”

“Do not order me about. You’d do well to watch your tone as well. I outrank you.” It was better to put Gytha in her place now, so Reid wouldn’t have to keep dealing with her.

Gytha bristled. She stood there for a long, uncomfortable minute before responding. “I apologize, Lady Reid.” Sarcasm oozed through her tone. “Our wise and competent Princess Nara asked me to watch out for and take care of you on our journey.”

That surprised Reid. “Listen, Gytha, I think we got off on the wrong foot.” She didn’t want to fight with this woman.

“Since you insist on being overly formal, it’s Captain Gytha.”

“Fine, Captain Gytha.” Reid took a deep breath. “Thank you for watching over me. As soon as I relieve myself, I’ll return to camp.”

“I’ll wait.” Folding her arms, Gytha started tapping her foot.

Reid sighed, knowing she’d lost the opportunity to destroy the letter. After she ducked behind a tree to quickly relieve herself, she said, “Let’s go back.”