Freya and Cossette hit it off. The King and Queen were slowly coming to terms with the reality of becoming grandparents to an unwed mother and trying to figure out how they were going to tackle the situation in the media, but they seemed mostly accepting. Magnus had forgiven Cossette, but like Freya, he wasn't allowing his guard down either, just in case she was playing at something much more sinister.

He still wanted to address the matter of Santiago, but he'd chosen to leave it until after the ball. He didn't want to spoil his time with Freya.

They'd arrived in Madrid, but there was such an activity that Magnus couldn't figure out why. Bernard checked both Freya and Magnus into their rooms. They had no time to spend together as the dignitary had requested to meet with Magnus as soon as possible.

After hours of debating over the European Union, they were both no closer to seeing each other's points of view.

Magnus wondered why bother with a secret meeting if neither was willing to budge? It was difficult playing the role of a politician. He always made sure to carefully study the issues himself, digging deeper before reaching an opinion. But not all were so willing. Unlike his father and him, they didn't have to worry about constituents. Their people were their priority without strings attached, unlike so many others who relied on financial backers, special interest groups, or deep pocket seed money for a pet project.

When it came to that side of politics, Magnus was thankful for the monarchy. Sure, monarchies of the past served very selfish purposes. But these days, they were faithful servants of the people. Many might not agree with his perspective, but his country was a prime example of how it was possible to maintain a monarchy and how the nation benefit from it.

"Bernard. That took much longer than I would've liked. I won't call the meeting entirely useless because we've at minimum gained an understanding of the position they are leaning towards and why. Please make sure you bring His Majesty up to speed. I'll call him later. But right now, I need to get Freya so we can head out to sea." He smiled, thinking of the payoff to the drawn-out meeting.

"Yes, Your Royal Highness. Is there anything I can do before we both leave?"

Magnus paused for thought. "Yes, there is. Discreetly keep an eye on my sister. I'm sure the King and Queen already have someone doing this, but I'd like the extra eyes."

Bernard nodded in understanding. "I'll see to it. Please be safe out there, Your Highness. And call if you need anything."

Magnus smiled, walking in tandem out of the room with his trusted confidant. Once in the hallway, he stepped up to Bernard's side. “Why don't you go ahead? I'll stop for Freya. Thanks again, my friend." He shook Bernard's hand and sent him off before taking a deep breath and knocking on Freya's door. He was ready to take a few days off, alone, with his girlfriend.

"All done?" She smiled.

"All done. Are you ready?"

"Yep. Let me grab my purse and jacket." He held the door while she disappeared back into the hotel room.

"Okay, let's go."

Freya was awestruck when they reached Malaga. There was still daylight when the pilot did a flyover, so she could take in an aerial view of the city and the coastline.

"This is truly amazing. I would've never imagined how beautiful this is in person." She turned to Magnus. "Thank you so much for this. It’s been an amazing experience, so far, and it only keeps getting better."

He held her hand as the plane landed. "The best is yet to come." He winked.

Freya enjoyed his subtle and not-so-subtle displays of affection.

"We are going to be landing on a private airfield. Then we'll make the drive to the dock where we'll board the yacht."

"How many security details will be joining us?"

"All that is with us now."

"So many? But we'll be at sea. Is it really necessary?"

"Freya, I'm a Crown Prince. Aside from tourism, my small country has oil. A bit of oil. It's like I have a target on my head. Threats can be real."

Freya waited for the jolt in her stomach to pass as the airplane landed. Once the wheels were touching ground, she looked at Magnus. "I suppose I have a lot to learn. It's just awkward traveling everywhere with such a large entourage."

Smiling, he lifted her chin. "Not only are they the best guards, but they are also the most trusted. They also grow on you."

She smiled, knowing the latter to be true. She'd grown accustomed to having Jean-Paul and Eros close by, barely noticing them anymore. But there was more security detail than usual, and it had her on edge.

Once they deplaned and hopped in the waiting vehicles, the drivers drove quickly through a back road that didn't have much in the way of scenery. From the sky, Freya had caught the view of the Mediterranean style homes. There were white buildings, terracotta roofs, and various levels of streets that wound around. But she’d also seen a bit more of a contemporary side to the city. Now on the ground, she got a better view of this - the stone buildings and old architecture Europe was known for.

They quickly reached a dock, and there was a massive boat in the water. No way was that a yacht, Freya thought, it was more of a mini cruise ship.

"I was wondering where exactly everyone was going to fit. My experience with yachts is on a much smaller scale." She looked stunned. "Color me impressed."

Magnus helped her out of the vehicle. "It’s been in my family for a few decades. Updated to feature all the current technology and amenities, but very much a small palace on water.”

They walked toward the boat as Freya felt the magnitude of its significance. She knew nothing about any type of watercraft, but this wasn't a watercraft, it was so much more than that. As Magnus had stated, it was a small palace of its own.

"As the saying goes, a true playground for the rich and famous. Exquisite. Exotic. And outrageously expensive," she said without blinking an eye, gulping in the fresh sea breeze while stepping up to the walkway.

Freya counted five floors. "How many rooms does it have?"

Magnus smiled and said, "Too many."

"I see. Well, I suppose I'll have to explore and count for myself."

"That's a great idea, I'll explore with you." He pulled her in closely sending flutters through her mid-section. Surely it was against formal protocol, but it felt so good.

Once on board, a crew member greeted them with a tray of drinks. Freya kindly thanked her as she took what appeared to be a glass of Sangria. A nice touch considering their location.

Just a few steps away, the Captain and his crew lined up. "Your Royal Highness and Miss Sinclair, welcome aboard La Esperanza, your home away from home for the next few days. I'm Capitan Margarito, and these are my chief officer, chief engineer, chief stewardess, purser, executive chef, and the helicopter pilot. The rest are the crew who help keep this superyacht moving along. Should you need anything at all, please do not hesitate to ask."

"Thank you, Captain Margarito. I look forward to cruising the Mediterranean with you at the helm."

He smiled and excused himself and the entire crew. Magnus gently guided her. "Come on, let's get you situated in your room. You'll have a little time to yourself before we meet up for dinner. The evening is beautiful, and I figure we can have dinner out on one of the decks. If you don't mind?"

"Not at all," she replied as they stepped into a glass encasement that was the elevator. The space, like the palace, was trimmed in gold.

"The only suite off limits is that of my parents. But I figure I'll take you there first, so you can see it."

As the elevator rose, you could see each floor. Each was just as luxurious as the next. The shiny wood trimming, the gold metal trimming, the lighting, it all made for splendor in its finest.

When they reached the private floor reserved for the King and Queen, there was a foyer just as grand and fit for a king as one would expect. Glass doors revealed an office, and when they walked to the right and up a couple of steps, they were in somewhat of an observatory room. It held a massive television and chaise lounges that looked straight out the windows and onto the sea. It was quite magnificent.

They wrapped around and found themselves in a sitting room and off to the opposite side, a bathroom that was more like a spa. And just ahead, when Frey didn't think it could get any better, they walked into the suite. The opulence of the room spoke of the power that slept within the chamber.

"This is all so much? Absolutely stunning, but it really is a lot to take in. How often does your family use the yacht?" she said, turning to him.

"As often as we can, but not often enough in my opinion. I'd live on here if I could. In fact, I did spend a few months here when I graduated from university." He looked over at her and smiled. "I was a bit lost."

"You were, were you?" she teased.

"Well, I thought I was. But here I am."

"Yes, you are-“ She was cut off by an unexpected gesture as Magnus pulled her tightly in, laying his soft lips upon hers, as she welcomed him. She dropped her handbag, allowing for her hands and arms to freely wrap around Magnus’s neck as he wrapped his around her small waist. The contours of their body fit each other perfectly as she slowly came up for air.

She grinningly pulled back, “Okay, well, let’s head to our rooms so we may get ready for dinner. I’m a bit famished and really looking forward to these next couple of days.” She blushed.

Hand in hand, the elevator took them to the floor just below the King and Queen’s suite. It was equally exquisite, reminding Freya of the floating extravagance, a lifestyle for very few.

“Miss Sinclair, here is your room.”

Magnus stepped to the side as Freya reluctantly released his hand so she could open the double doors. The sight was breathtaking. It was perhaps even more beautiful than the apartment she had at the palace. Something about the room felt welcoming, quainter, yet still held the grandeur of the superyacht.

“What can I say that I haven’t already said?” She took a deep breath as she walked in, taking in the view. “Thank you, Your Royal Highness. I can take it from here.” She laughed.

“I’ll give you your space. Dinner in forty-five minutes, okay?” He said giving her a soft kiss on the lips.

“Yes,” she said as she watched him walk away, suspecting he had business to tend to.

Looking out the window as the darkness chased the light away, Freya admired the water. She didn’t make enough time to enjoy the Puget Sound back home in addition to the Pacific Ocean that was just a few hours away from her.

At that moment, she promised herself to make more time.

A small tap at the door alerted her that someone was there. Magnus probably forgot to tell her something, she thought as she swung one door open.

“Miss me so soon…” she stopped mid-sentence, having thought it was Magnus only to find one of the crew members standing there with Freya’s luggage in tow.

“I apologize, Miss Sinclair. I’ll be your private stewardess. There was a small hold up in opening the jet’s cargo. Therefore I’m a bit late getting your luggage situated.”

“Oh! Come in.” Freya smiled, “what is your name?”

“Dorinda, Miss.” She quickly got to work opening Freya’s suitcase and carryon bag. “Is there anything specific you’d like me to pull out for you to wear for dinner?”

“I thought it was casual.”

“Miss, casual here on the yacht for dinner is typically cocktail attire.” She smiled.

Freya jogged her memory for visions of the clothes Paulo had packed for her. She’d thought he was excessive, but she was quickly learning that he knew better than she as far as fashion was concerned with this lifestyle.

“Any of the two black dresses will do. Also, there is a burgundy wrap and the black strappy shoes.”

“Very well, Miss Sinclair.” Dorinda found the items, retrieved something that looked like a garment mannequin and put the dress on it, along with the wrap, and the set the shoes below. “Will you need any assistance with hair and makeup?”

“You do that, too?”

Dorinda smiled. “Yes. That is part of my job. Albeit, occasionally a guest will bring their own entourage. But for the most part, they are perfectly content with their designated stewardess helping.”

“Well, I have about thirty to forty minutes to be meet His Royal Highness for dinner. I think I’ll wash up and perhaps you can help me touch up my makeup? I can throw my hair up in a bun. It’s kind of my go-to hairdo.” Freya smiled.

“Yes, miss, I can do that. Shall I start your shower?”

“Oh, no. But thank you. I can do that myself. I’m just going to grab my bag with my toiletries.”

When Freya returned from the shower, she quickly slipped the simple little black dress on before Dorinda surfaced from arranging Freya’s clothes in the walk-in closet.

They chatted about simple things, nothing too personal, as they quickly got Freya ready for dinner.

Having the extra attention was nice. It kind of reminded Freya of her days of dancing.

She smiled to herself as she recalled the memories.

“Your Majesty,” Magnus said. “I’m not sure what you expected of the meeting, but it was a serious waste of time. I wouldn’t be surprised if they helped with Britain’s Brexit, to gauge the people and see how it would unfold, so, they could later join with others in a mass exodus of the European Union.”

“Son, it is all a matter of negotiations. That is why a few other countries are growing impatient with us as I refuse to negotiate anything. I stand with the EU. Scrapping it would be a complete failure and a step backward.”

“I agree, Your Majesty. But the campaign they are attempting to sell is dangerous, and their people need a strong understanding of what they’d be losing. Citing that the EU has too many rules and regulations and costs millions to be a part of is disputable.”

“Magnus, you’ve done well. He called me, you know. You rather impressed him. Very few dignitaries have witnessed your political side.” Magnus could practically see the smile on his father’s face. “I suspect that by morning your astute political acumen will have leaked to the media.”

Magnus allowed his father’s words to sink in. There was no mistaking what he’d understood.

“It was a test?” he said, his voice quieter.

“In a sense, yes. Not for me, but for the entirety of the EU to have a better understanding of who they are dealing with. A future King.”

“Your Majesty, I have to go now. We are about to have dinner.”

“Give my regards to Miss Sinclair, please.”

Magnus didn’t reply or even say goodnight; he disconnected the call. The King had tested him. It didn’t sit well. Either that or hunger was finally getting the best of him.

He quickly got ready for dinner by washing up, putting on black slacks, a white button long sleeve shirt, and a black suit jacket.

He stared at his reflection in the mirror for a few moments, recognizing the strong resemblance he had to his father. Magnus knew if he could be half the King his father was he would be all right. But the fear was real, and filling his father’s shoes was a big task.

When Freya reached the main deck, one of the attendants ushered her outdoors where a beautiful table for two had been set up.

Magnus had his back to her. His hands were pushed into his pants pockets, and a breeze caught the edges of his hair.

She didn’t want to disturb him as he looked to be in deep thought, and if she was perfectly honest with herself, she didn’t mind his back view. But of course, she would never admit that out loud.

As she gripped the wrap a little more firmly around her shoulders to prevent the breeze from making her shiver, Magnus turned.

His smile was almost angelic, and the way he moved toward her almost made her buckle under the pressure of the tension slowly building in her.

He reached down, embraced her, and greeted her with a loving kiss. Good thing he was holding her, or she’d surely had fallen over.

When they finally stopped, she laid her head on his chest while together they stared out into the sea. Few lights could be seen in the distance, and while beautiful, it was the moon, so big, so bright, that took her breath away.

A self-playing grand piano gave way to beautiful music, as Magnus took Freya into his arms and they danced, right there on the deck. He guided her to the music, as they slowly moved she allowed her head to rest on his chest. His heartbeat was strong, as she felt hers match his. The thumping canceled out everything else as Freya listened to their hearts beat in unison.

They would’ve stayed in that position longer except Freya’s stomach betrayed her by growling so loud neither one could contain their laughter.

“We better get some food in you,” Magnus said as he guided her toward the table, pulling her chair out for her.

“You are going to get tired of me repeating myself about how beautiful this all is.”

“Not at all. I think it is important to recognize and appreciate what we have. I make it a point to never forget where I come from. My family has held the Crown of Martierra for over a millennium. The Dahl family has maintained a monarchy because it has ruled justly and taken care of all the people, not just a select few. It is a wealthy country because of a few natural resources and tourism rivaling Monaco.”

Freya observed him, hanging on his every word. He’d already swept her off her feet, but now? Now he was winning her heart. His love of country, of his people, of what his status represented? His ability to empathize while outwardly standing tall and steadfast in actions?

Magnus was no fool. He wasn’t a privileged rich boy who’d hit the lottery by birthright. He truly cared.

They were interrupted by an attendant who poured wine from a previously uncorked bottle. Another brought out one single bite-size appetizer to both Freya and Magnus.

She looked at the decorative appetizer; fish over a fresh cut of cheese on a cucumber slice topped with a creamy white mousse and caviar.

Freya could see the grin on Magnus’ face. “Amuse-bouche.”

“Excuse me?” She was puzzled at what he’d spoken.

“It’s French for a single bite dish that is intended to excite the palate for the dinner to come.” He smiled and said, “Try it.”

The cucumber was so fresh it snapped in her mouth, and the fresh cheese, fish, and mousse all melted softly onto her palate with an almost buttery after effect from the caviar.

“Delicious!” She smiled.

“My mother has made it her mission to hire only the best chefs. We like to eat a lot.” He laughed.

They talked about food for a few minutes, sipping their wine, holding hands, when the soup course showed up.

It was a spicy Mediterranean soup hosting different herbs and vegetables, featuring chunked snapper, prawns, and fennel. There was a new glass of wine, white wine, to be specific. The red seafood broth had a nice bite which Freya thoroughly enjoyed.

The serving was small and satisfying.

“I want that recipe. Do you think I can twist the chef’s arm to give it to me?”

Magnus laughed so loudly one of his security popped his head around the corner but quickly retreated once he saw Magnus was fine.

“Twisting of arms should not be necessary. I’ll make sure to get word to him.”

“I need to slow down on the wine. Not enough food yet to offset the effects.” She playfully crossed her eyes.

“Freya, you are something else. You know that?” Magnus smiled and continued, “Since you plowed through your soup, do you want mine?”

She turned beet-red. “I did finish that rather quickly, didn’t I?”

“Don’t worry, I won’t tell.”

She had to admit, it was kind of funny thinking about how she might look, scarfing down every dish brought out to her. She didn’t care, her stomach was greatly appreciative.

“So, what’s on the agenda for tomorrow?” Freya asked.

“No agendas remember?”

“Except I have a conference call to make back to the office. Once I get that out of the way and review any changes to my budget, I’ll be able to completely unplug.”

“Aww, yes, my working woman,” he said proudly., “Remind me to show you where the office is. We also have a conference room, but you might be more comfortable in the office.”

“Do you happen to have video conferencing capabilities? It's usually best if I can video conference. I like to read my colleagues’ body language and facial expressions. It helps me prepare. Two of the other female executives can be real barracudas, and I wouldn’t like missing out on anything.” She giggled as she envisioned past meetings.

Magnus grinned. “Yes, we have the technology you need. But I think I should sit in on the meeting, you know, so I can support you?”

She knew he was teasing, but the thought of him watching her work didn’t really sit well. It made her nervous as if she were on display to be judged.

Out of nowhere, a plethora of insecurity overcame her. There was the media waiting for her to mess up, her family wanting her to mess up, and the entire world wondering where in heck Magnus had unearthed her from.