Weighing her options, she figured she could probably use her magic to get her out of this situation. But if he blabbed to the soldiers… They wouldn’t find it hard to believe given her history. She would have to make it sly.

Closing her eyes, Solara focused on his clothes. Just as she was about to work her magic, a familiar voice rang in her ears.

“Let her go.” The man turned to face the source of the voice, thus turning her as well.

It was Michael! He was standing only feet away, his sword only inches from the intruder’s face. Solara was more than glad to see him.

“If it is not the prince himself. Are you really willing to risk her life to get me?”

Michael looked at Solara a moment. She closed her eyes tightly, bringing her elbow back to jab him in the ribs. He grimaced, putting his attention on her. While he was distracted, Michael plunged his sword deep into the man’s shoulder and causing him to release her. She took this opportunity to run towards Michael, moving behind him.

“Guards!” She yelled loud enough to ensure that they heard her. They were there within seconds, grabbing the man and putting him in handcuffs.

The prince had the commander explain what had happened. “Christopher heard noises coming from Miss Solara’s room and decided to check it out. When he opened the door, items were strewn over the floor, the bed was untidy and her wardrobe was a disaster. It seemed she was the only one he was after.”

Solara’s eyebrows knitted in confusion. “Me? Why would he be after me?” She was still behind Michael, gripping his arm tightly.

“I am not sure, Miss, but we will question him and find out soon enough. Until then, I will be putting you under watch so nothing happens to you.”

“Very well. I will report to my father what has happened. You are dismissed.” Michael sent the guard way and turned to Solara. “Are you alright? Did he hurt you?” He examined the parts of her that could be seen.

She released his arm, taking a step back. “I am fine. I am not hurt...anywhere…” Tears welled up in her eyes, causing her vision to blur. She stood there a moment, not sure what was happening. She wasn’t scared when it happened. Why was she crying now? Michael wrapped his arms around her and she buried her face in his shoulder. “I-I was so s-scared… I d-did not know what to do…”

He gently rubbed her back, closing his eyes and holding her tightly. “I am sorry… I am here now… I will not let anything like that happen again…”

He held her as she cried a while longer, shaking in his arms. It was just like when she was a child, after her mother was taken away to be burned. He always knew how to comfort her in her times of need.

When she had finally calmed down, she pulled away and wiped her remaining tears. She looked up at Michael who smiled at her gently. “H-How did you know where w-we were?”

“I could see you from the conference room. I left in quite a hurry. Father will be upset but I am sure he will understand after I explain what happened.” He took her hand, smiling. “Come with me. I am sure he will want to hear your side of the story as well.”

Solara nodded and followed him to the conference room. She hadn’t been in the conference room before. It was only used for meetings and other affairs. Considering Michael had been talking to his father in that room, it must have been some important business.