“I can do that,” Reid said, the lie rolling off her tongue. She had no idea if she could act and behave in such a way. However, if her doing so was what Nara needed, Reid would do everything she could not to let the princess down—even if it meant putting on a show. The letter still clutched in her hand, Reid rose to leave. Hesitantly, she asked, “What do you think the king is going to do to me?”

“Whatever do you mean?”

“King Eldon expects me to procure those letters between Henrick and Leigh. However, someone stole them.”

“The only other person who has a key is Leigh,” Nara stated.

Could Leigh have given Ackley the key? And if so, why? “The king will be furious with me when I don’t produce the letters.”

Nara stood, settling a hand on each of Reid’s shoulders in a show of comfort. “You’re going to be part of this family. We’ll protect you.” Her strong words rang true.

“Thank you.”

“I have a few things to tend to before tonight.” Nara released her. “People will be pleased when they see their future princess looks like one should. And when they find out you’re also a warrior, they’ll know what a real gem you are.”

The word gem reminded Reid of something. “I think we need to investigate what’s going on in the Bridger mines.”

“Why do you say that?”

“I saw two groups of men who looked like miners from Bridger. Both tried to assassinate Ackley, Gordon, and Idina—but not the king.” Then there was the fact at least one ship sailed from Bridger to Melenia to barter precious stones and gems.

“Have you shared this concern with anyone?”

“No.”

“I’m glad you said something to me. I’ll have my sons look into it.”

Standing before the full-length mirror, Reid shook her head. “I can’t.” She’d never seen a dress like this in her life, much less wore one. “It’s not appropriate.”

“I beg to differ,” Nara said, coming to stand beside her. “It’s perfect.”

Reid barely recognized herself. The midnight-blue dress left her shoulders bare, going straight across her bosom to fit snuggly along her torso. At her waist, the fabric loosened, flowing in soft, silky waves around her feet. A mixture of braids and soft curls, her hair had been gathered atop her head, then adorned with a circlet. When she moved, the tiny diamonds all over her dress transformed it into a night sky glittering with stars. Even Reid’s makeup complemented her attire, the pale shimmery colors making her appear almost fairy-like.

“Don’t you think it’s a little too revealing? I’ve never seen anyone wear something like this before.”

“It is revealing,” Nara admitted.