When they entered the room, they were met with an icy glare. “I demand an explanation for why you left during such important affairs.”

“I am sorry, Father. But you know I would not have left if it were not a pressing matter.” There was a moment of uncomfortable silence before the king spoke again.

He let out a sigh. “Then explain. What was so important?”

Michael took a seat and motioned for Solara to sit next to him. He looked at his father, his expression turning serious. “ There was an intruder in the castle.”

“An intruder?! Impossible!”

“It is apparently not so. He was caught going through Solara’s room before being chased out. I had seen Solara getting held hostage below the window and rushed out to catch him.”

The king turned his gaze to her. “So she is the cause of this. I knew she would only bring trouble. I wonder, what did she do to cause him to break in?”

His words stung. She was brought here under extreme circumstances and offered a place to stay, of course at the king’s despair. He hadn’t liked the thought of her staying in their home. But the prince insisted. He had so much faith in her and she causes this to happen…

“We are not sure of that ourselves. The guards have taken him to the dungeon to keep and question him. I am sure we will know soon enough. I have already arranged for there to be a guard nearby at all times to be safe.”

“Very well. Although I think you protect this girl a little too much for the situation you are in. Your fiancé will not be happy with this behavior.”

“Fiancé?” Solara was confused. This was the first she was hearing of him being engaged. Engaged… She didn’t like the sound of that. Michael had been hers for nearly twelve years and now he was going to belong to someone else…

“Yes, I am sorry I did not tell you sooner. I was going to tell you later but a lot of things happened I had not plan for…”

“What right does she have to know of your arrangements anyhow? She is an outsider. She does not need to know your entire agenda.” The king glared at her as if daring her to speak against him.

“Father, I would appreciate it if you stopped speaking of Solara in such a matter. She is part of the family.” Michael became more stern with his father, sitting up straight.

The king went silent at the protective attitude of the prince. “I do not appreciate the way you talk to me, but there is not much I can do seeing as you will be the king shortly. Marie is a lucky woman to be destined to bear a child of our bloodline.”

“Indeed.” Michael relaxed slightly, but Solara could sense a hint of dread in the tone he spoke in.

Solara tuned out, allowing the two to continue their conversation without interruption. She was lost in her own thoughts. She knew that the prince would be married off one day, but she hadn't thought it would be so soon… How would this affect their relationship? Would they be forced to stop seeing each other? Would she have to leave her home? Her only family left in this world?

Just as she felt panic set in, she felt a hand on her shoulder. She looked up to find Michael looking down at her with his eyebrows knitted in concern.