The walls of Freya's apartment were full of tapestries, floor to ceiling, with the same gold trim and carefully hand-carved moldings she’d seen throughout. The bed? Everything she’d imagined, tall and fluffy, with massive wooden pillars, luxurious canopy, and curtains to shut out the world.

A fireplace large enough to swallow her up was lit, warming the entire space. A beautiful crystal chandelier, dropped low, illuminated the room since the curtains in the room had not been drawn. I wonder why?

Walking around and taking in every table, armoire, and detail within the space, it excited her knowing it was her small piece of heaven during the stay.

A quiet knock announced someone at the door. Freya assumed was Estella. She voiced out a quick “Come in,” turning toward the door to find Her Majesty, Queen Esperanza, standing there, her hand resting on the doorknob.

Freya immediately curtsied, remembering this detail from the notes she'd been given by Bernard.

Blood rushed to her face, as the Queen politely gave a subtle nod, indicating that Freya could return as she was.

"Your Majesty, I apologize. I did not know you were coming." She fought to keep her nerves at bay.

"It is quite all right. It wasn't on the agenda." She smiled, giving away that same playful side her son also had. "I wanted to come to make your acquaintance, personally, outside of formality or in the presence of others."

Freya picked up on the Queen's accent; it was much more present than she'd imagined, whereas Magnus and all the members of his security detail did not have this.

"Thank you, Your Majesty."

"Come, let us sit." The Queen moved toward a settee, comfortably situated in front of the fireplace.

Freya could see a lot of Magnus in his mother. She was slender and taller than Freya, her olive tone skin looked to be a bit sun-deprived, but she was beautiful. She wore a deep jade skirt suit, with pearls. Very Jackie O., Freya noted.

"Miss Sinclair, His Majesty and I are honored to have you in our home as a guest." She paused. "I'm very blunt. I don't do small talk very well. Whether that is a gift or a curse is yet to be seen, considering the circumstances my family is now facing. However, that brings me to my unexpected visit.

"As you know, my daughter, Princess Cossette, seems to be on a rampage against her brother. I'm sure my son has shared with you a few detailss so we won't lose time discussing those. What we will discuss is your being here. I'll be making an announcement first thing in the morning. Cossette has been quiet for a few days; however, I believe she'll come out with remarks once she hears about your being here."

The Queen looked around the room as if to ensure they were truly alone. "We do extensive background checks on our guests. It's not something that is talked about, but I am sharing this with you as my daughter will dig up anything she can to launch an attack on your character and credibility. I’m starting to now realize this of her. And there are a couple of things I want to go over with you, in preparation."

"Yes, Your Majesty," Freya said, wondering if the expression on her face was just as jumbled as her innards.

"Your friends, Justine and Marissa, have a bit of a colorful past. I know Magnus and Bernard were able to keep this covered up, but it will come up with Cossette. It can be damaging to either woman, and you need to know this, so you know how to deal with the backlash."

The Queen paused, giving Freya an opportunity to reply.

"Your Majesty, I've already addressed this where it matters most, with my clients. Both Justine and Marissa are aware that it is only a matter of time before it’ll come up. They are fully prepared."

The Queen raised an eyebrow. Freya hoped it meant she was impressed with her forward thinking.

"Very well. So, allow me to move on. Your family. From what I've gathered, they are not very pleased about your friendship with my son. I don't take that personally, as everyone is entitled to their opinion. However, there is something you should know and probably discuss with them. Even though, I know you aren't necessarily on good terms now."

Freya simply nodded, unsure how much the Queen knew.

"Your sister-in-law, Penelope? Is that her name?"

"Yes."

"I have it on good authority that she has been shopping a story about you. She has two very interested buyers willing to pay a good amount of money. I believe she is waiting in order to get a bit more inside scoop as to the inner workings of my family."

Freya could hardly believe what she was hearing. Penelope? Trying to sell a story about me? She caught herself gawking in surprise, unsure of how to respond. Her instinct was to go ballistic, but it was hardly appropriate in the presence of the Queen.

"Thank you, Your Majesty. Clearly, I had no idea. I can assure you that I've said nothing to my family other than the truth; His Royal Highness and I are only friends. My issues with my family have a long history." Freya hesitated, but she knew the matter needed to be discussed. "Your Majesty, it isn’t I don't believe you. Because I do, but if I'm to handle this head-on, within my family, I'll need some form of tangible proof. Is there a way I can get that?"

The Queen smiled, something about that made Freya feel they were going to be fast friends.

"Indeed. I'll get this to you by nightfall. And Miss Sinclair, thank you. I'll have my secretary send over my speech as soon as I finalize this, so you are aware of what I'll be saying and not blindsided." She winked.

Freya wasn't sure if she should take it as a playful comment or if she really needed to worry. Either way, she didn't have any control over what the Queen would say. After all, she was the Queen.

Magnus was quick to freshen up and dress for dinner, anxious to spend more time with Freya. He'd left her in her room even though he really wanted to keep talking, but duty called, and he had to get on a teleconference with a Turkish official regarding the impending European summit.

When he reached the drawing room, he found his parents having a quiet, intimate moment. He stood back silently, taking in the tableau, wishing that he too would one day have what they did: a true love. His father's arm held his mother tightly to him as she leaned into his chest while they both stared out one of the floor-to-ceiling windows looking out to the gardens. Someday I too will stand there with my special someone, he thought, hoping in his heart that the special person would be Freya.

He cleared his throat, breaking up the moment as the King and Queen turned.

"Son, you look dashing." The Queen smiled warmly at Magnus.

"Of course, he does. Do you not remember the days I was trying to court you, my dear?" His father joked.

"Oh, stop it, Ferdinand. You were always in a rush, rarely making sense and nervously stumbling through your words each time you spoke to me."

"Me? Ha! You must mistake me with El Conde Castellano. Now there was a real charmer," the King jokingly said, causing the Queen to roll her eyes, something she rarely did, at least in the presence of others from what Magnus had witnessed.

"Bringing up El Conde, huh?" the Queen countered.

But the King was quick. "Only to be reminded how fortunate I am to have you at my side."

They all burst into laughter, and that was how Freya found them when she walked in.

Magnus took a deep breath as he carefully observed every movement Freya's knee-length navy blue, pleated skirt dress made. The cap-sleeve lace top was elegant but still accentuated her upper body nicely. Freya's hair was pinned up loosely, allowing her delicate facial features to stand out. The teardrop diamond earrings caught the lighting in the room just so that each movement sparkled. His breath was taken away.

Freya curtsied. "Your Majesties." His parents both nodded in approval, and he caught his father wink at him before Freya or his mother could notice.

"Miss Sinclair, welcome to our home," the Queen said.

"Thank you very much for accepting Prince Magnus' invitation," the King added.

"Thank you, both, kindly. I'm truly appreciative of the opportunity to spend time with the Royal Family and getting to know your country and people. It is an honor."

Her voice was effervescent, and her words well spoken.

"Miss Sinclair, may I offer you something to drink?" Magnus asked.

"No, thank you."

The King and Queen moved toward the seating area, and Freya and Magnus followed.

"Tell me, Miss Sinclair, how are you finding the palace?"

"Your Majesty, it is truly magnificent. This palace is a work of art. Every detail looks to have been carefully curated. I mentioned to His Royal Highness how classic and timeless this place is."

The King smiled at the compliment. His family had zealously guarded the palace and its splendor. Magnus could see the pride in his father's eyes, but mostly he seemed intrigued that Freya would've noticed the details with such care.

"Miss Sinclair, I'll be visiting a center for the mentally and physically disabled tomorrow. Do you think you'd like to accompany me? I go periodically, to see how the disadvantaged members of our community are doing, speak to the staff about any concerns they might have with the care and resources they have access to, but most importantly, to remind every one of those who needs us."

Magnus noticed Freya's appreciation. Surely, neither he nor Freya expected the invitation.

"Your Majesty, thank you. I'd like that very much."

"Wonderful. I'll make sure Estella gets the details, so we are properly coordinated." She smiled. "I know you'll be a major hit with the patients."

"Miss Sinclair, we have a full schedule for your first day. We'll be starting with Her Majesty's press conference. I have the notes here." Estella pulled a fancy paper, printed on creme colored embossed royal letterhead from her portfolio and handed it to Freya. "It is not subject to change. Therefore, that is an official document. You are welcome to keep it. Multiple copies are kept for purposes of record-keeping."

Freya looked over the statement wondering how exactly she'd be presented to the people.

Estella kept speaking, but Freya was no longer engaged as she studied each word carefully.

"Miss Sinclair, I apologize, but I really need your attention."

"I'm sorry, Estella. But can you please give me a moment to read over this?"

"Her Majesty will be live in a few minutes, and it is important we get through this quickly as we have to be present during the press release," Estella said assertively.

"I wasn't aware I needed to be present. I can't imagine why,"

Estella looked over to the chambermaid who was tiding up the room. Freya noticed a slight hesitation in Estella as if she were unable to speak with someone else present, so she politely asked the chambermaid to give them a moment.

"Okay, what is it that you need to say. I can see it written all over your face."

"Miss Sinclair, when a press conference is being held in the palace, it is imperative that you are present to support the royal family, especially as a guest. More importantly, what is currently happening within this monarchy is unique. If you are not present, it will only allow for further speculation by the people, especially with her Royal Highness Princess Cossette ready to attack at any moment."

Freya took in what Estella said, kind of understanding, but not really.

"Fair enough." She stepped over to a mirror. "Am I at least presentable? I know I won't be going before the cameras but I assume there is a certain look I must maintain for these events?"

"Indeed. Well, you are making a public appearance with Her Majesty. It is best to wear a skirt suit or perhaps a dress. Business proper, of course."

Freya looked at her slim khaki slacks, silk floral top, paired with a Kelly-green button up sweater. She thought she looked fine, but now she was second guessing all her wardrobe. There was no way she'd have enough clothes to carry her through the stay.

Just as she was going to say something, a small tap was heard at the door. Estella looked to Freya, to ensure it was okay to check.

On the other side of the door stood a young lady no older than Estella and a very fashionable looking man who didn't wait to be invited into the room as he barged in.

"Good morning. I'm Paulo, and this is Sabrina, my assistant. We are for all intents and purposes, your glam squad."

Paulo stepped around Freya, carefully assessing her every inch, grunting on occasion, causing Freya to feel nervous and judged. Who’d sent him?

"Nice to meet you, Paulo and Sabrina." She extended her hand in greeting. Each barely touched it with their fingertips. "Who sent you?"

Paulo waved his hands in the air as if Freya knew nothing. "Who sent me? My dear. You are a special guest of the royal family. Her Majesty herself has commissioned me to ready you every step of the way." His snobby reply seemed a bit too much for Freya, but she was used to the likes of Paulo from her days in the ballet.

"Very well. You'll have to work with me here as I try to understand what exactly you'll be doing. No offense, I just want to make sure I'm not wasting anyone’s time. And I have to be at Her Majesty's press conference in a few minutes."

"Not looking like that you are not. Besides, Her Majesty will not start the conference until you are ready."

Freya noticed Sabrina pulling in a covered rolling rack. When she found a likely spot, she unzipped the bag and revealed clothes, shoes, handbags, scarves. Well, you name it, if you could wear it, it was surely there.

Paulo was scrutinizing Freya. When she gasped as an outfit was pulled out, he looked rather pleased with himself.

"Sabrina, get to work on the outfits, and I'll do her hair and makeup. Miss Sinclair, your choice of outfit does matter, but I'll be weighing heavily with my opinion. It’s for your own good." He smirked.

Estella stood to the side quietly trying to encourage Freya to go along with the plan as she also went over the schedule.

Freya couldn't hear a word as she gawked over every single clothing item that was shown to her.

"This is going to be difficult," Freya finally admitted.

"Yes. Well, let's start with the best color for you to wear. I see you like green. That color of green looks rather good on you. It seems jewel tones will look best. Rather fitting, if you ask me," Paulo said with a mischievous smile, causing Freya’s stomach to flutter. Surely he couldn’t mean anything more scandalous by it.

"How about the fuchsia sheath-style dress with the long coat? I think that is the dress for her to wear as she makes her debut. Paired with the tan heels?"

Sabrina reached for the garment and revealed it to Freya.

"Oh, it is lovely." She smiled from ear to ear.

"Excellent. Now, let's finish getting you ready."

After a few minutes, he was done, which really impressed Freya.

"I'm going to go through your wardrobe while you are gone. I'll need to see what you've brought so I can work those pieces into your overall look. Also, I'll be here with a team tomorrow at some point to start fitting you for your gown for the Christmas Ball."

Freya stood in somewhat of a haze as she stared at her reflection. She'd never really dressed the way Paulo had put her together, and she was shocked she looked good and still felt comfortable. However, all his work was suddenly clouded by the mention of the Christmas Ball.

"The ball. Oh my! I forgot about that."

She turned different shades of pink, conveniently matching her outfit.

"Miss Sinclair, I will be creating your gown." Paulo lifted his head a little higher with pride.

"Miss Sinclair, we really need to go now." Estella was looking down at her phone. "Their Majestys are on their way, accompanied by His Royal Highness."

"Go. Go. Do not keep the royal family waiting. I'll be around as will Sabrina. Either way, you can contact me through Estella. She has all of my information."

Estella and Freya immediately took their leave.

Freya was such a gorgeous sight Magnus could hardly keep his eyes off her. He was doing his best to behave like a well-mannered Prince, but containing himself would be a challenge. Even the King gave him a sideways glance as if to say, knock it off.

Freya, on the other hand, looked so nervous. She was doing great in keeping up, but Magnus had seen her nervous side before, and that was exactly the Freya who was present.

"His Majesty King Ferdinand, I, and His Royal Highness Prince Magnus are happy to welcome Miss Freya Marie Sinclair from the United States of America to the Royal Palace.

"Miss Sinclair graciously accepted the invitation from Prince Magnus and will be spending the holidays here, in our lovely country. She will be joining us during many of our royal functions along with taking advantage of the opportunity to see Martierra as a local.

"Additionally, we send a heartfelt thank you to each one of our citizens, as together, we continue adapting to the ever-changing world around us. His Majesty King Ferdinand has in recent weeks released statements of condolences and pledges of support on behalf of our people, to those affected by unforeseen circumstances of natural disasters.

"We are reminded of how quickly a nation can be ravaged and torn apart.

"Finally, as is tradition. The royal palace will commence the holiday decorating, which means, the entire island will be dressed for the upcoming festivities.

"Thank you."

Magnus observed as Freya stood patiently, waiting for the Queen to finish her speech.

He had to admit, his mother knew precisely how to command attention and had undoubtedly found a roundabout way to address Cossette without really saying anything specific.

"Freya, you look absolutely lovely," he whispered into her ear as soon as the reporters were dismissed from the press room.

"You look quite dashing yourself, Your Royal Highness."

Magnus felt warmth throughout his body, listening to her voice and looking at her lips as she smiled.

"Would you like to go for a walk after my mother speaks with you? She's headed over here."

Freya immediately pulled her eyes away from Magnus, turning to the Queen.

"Your Majesty. I'm unsure of what to say in these situations. But you sounded wonderful. The message, to me as an outsider, seemed very appropriate."

Magnus was enjoying watching Freya discreetly hide her nerves.

"Thank you, Miss Sinclair. I'll tend to a few matters before we take our leave. I suggest you grab something to eat. Nothing heavy. But enough to hold you over just in case we spend more time there than is programmed. It often happens when I visit." She smiled warmly at Freya before politely excusing herself.

The King simply acknowledged but left immediately when he noticed his wife speaking to her. Magnus knew there were important matters to tend to, but he wanted to spend the morning with Freya, so he'd already made the arrangements with his father. A few compromises were in order, and Magnus didn't mind.

"Estella, that'll be all for now. I'll have Miss Sinclair back to you before she needs to depart for the hospital."

"Yes, Your Royal Highness. If you two will excuse me."

With Estella gone, they were finally alone.

"You have no idea how long I've been waiting for everyone to be gone." He smiled.

"Why's that?"

"To be alone with you, of course. It's not as easy as you'd think around here. The palace is big, but there always seems to be someone nearby."

"I see." She smiled. "Well, I didn't really eat breakfast because of the nerves. And I'm suddenly hungry. Probably has to do with the Queen's warning."

"Oh. Well, I know exactly how to fix that."

"Please don't call anyone to bring something up. I'm very capable of making my own snack."

Magnus' eyes twinkled. He liked that independence about Freya.

"Not a chance. We have the most amazing chef, and he has mad skills in the kitchen." Magnus couldn't contain his excitement.

"Mad skills, huh?" she teased. "I better check my schedule then. Oh, yeah, I'm open." She laughed, causing Magnus to laugh loudly.

As the laughing calmed her down, he reached to caress her face and slowly lost himself in her deep dark eyes, so like his own. He held her in his gaze for a moment and without thinking, he kissed her.

She didn't move at first. Probably caught off guard, but as he moved his lips on hers, she slowly gave in and welcomed him in. He kissed her tenderly before he broke away, knowing he needed to be more careful. It wouldn't be good if the staff walked in on them. Especially since they weren't officially a couple.

"Freya. I know I've said this to you before. And I'll say it again. I really like you."

She looked into his eyes and said, "And so do I."

What am I doing?! She screamed internally as she gave into Magnus’ kiss.

Sure, she liked him. But he was a Prince! A Crown Prince! Wait? Haven't I've run this through my head already? Ugh! It's all confusing!

"Freya, are you okay?" Magnus inquired.

"Yes. I'm fine." She paused and said, “No, I'm not. Look, Magnus, I really like you. A lot. But I'm having all sorts of mixed feelings. I barely know you. Here I am in your country, in your home. I'm having issues reconciling the fact that you are a Prince and I'm a virtual stranger with nothing regal about me. I don't want to make a mistake. But I also want to try and live out of the box. Hence, why I am here.

"I'm terrified of what this makes me look like." She looked down.

Magnus reached for her chin, again, and gently pulled her face to his, pressing his forehead against hers.

"Freya, I know a lot of this has to do with your family. Don't let their opinion cloud our opportunity. I cannot make any promises, but I guarantee there will be a lot of misinformation. I'll do my best to set the record straight, I just need you to trust the process and trust me. If you can?"

Freya looked him in the eyes. She didn't doubt him, and he was right as far as she was concerned. Her family's words lay heavily on her mind.

"What now?"

He looked at her, making her stomach flutter, "Miss Freya Marie Sinclair, I'd like to officially date you. Do you accept me as your…" he smiled, "your boyfriend?"

Freya had been secretly hoping it would come to this. Tossing all caution to the wind, she reached around his neck, feeling his free arm slip warmly around her waist, she replied, "Your Royal Highness Prince Magnus Dahl, I accept."

This time, she initiated the kiss, a long, meaningful kiss where both participants engaged with a passion that seemed to suck up the air around them. An unseen tension was released as the contours of their bodies conformed to each other.

Freya chanced a shy glance at him, catching the fervent excitement still lingering in his gaze, and she yearned to be held tightly by him. A happiness and a desire to be loved like no other was all that was on her mind.

Loved? Oh dear. I really am a goner, she thought as she lost herself in his arms.