Magnus arrived at the high rise to meet his friend, Santiago. He’d been eager to catch up with his old friend. He was thankful he’d invited him to get out tonight so he could shake off the pressures of the monarchy. Santiago assured him no one would recognize him in these parts, which was why Magnus jumped at the invitation.

Not that the club was unimpressive, but he’d seen many like it, as one of the door attendants quickly ushered him in to meet up with his friend. By the flickering gazes, it was he was receiving special treatment, putting Magnus on edge.

“There you are! You look fantastic.” Santiago stood to embrace Magnus. They were of equal stature, with the natural olive skin of the area of the world they came from, and like Santiago, Magnus also had hazel eyes, only his were more profound, holding a world of mystery.

The two men looked similar yet different, equally handsome, but there was something more attractive about Magnus, while Santiago could have been a typical stock model in the next underwear campaign.

“Glad to see you after all these years, Santi.” The nickname was one Santiago had earned among his closest friends.

“How do you like Seattle so far? I know it is nothing like Europe or those other high-profile cities, but it has its own charm. Don’t you think?” Santiago asked.

“So far I’m enjoying myself. On my flight in, I caught a lot of the scenery, and I’m eager to get out there to take it all in. The mountains are calling.” He smiled.

“How about we have some fun tonight? There are some very attractive ladies here, great dancers, and the best part, all members and guests sign contracts of exclusivity, anonymity, and non-disclosure before being admitted in. Like for yourself, exceptions are made.”

Magnus wasn’t unfamiliar with the practice. Still, he always waded in on the side of caution. He couldn’t afford any slip-ups.

“I heard the buzz from Spain. I don’t believe it.” Santiago offered Magnus a reassuring look.

“Thanks. It's not true. I cannot grasp what would possess her to make such a damning accusation? It's not like DNA doesn’t exist to prove how wrong the woman is. It’s all unfathomable.”

“Well, you are the Crown Prince of Martierra. I suppose a few crazies will try anything. Don’t fret, my friend. These things solve themselves rather quickly.” Santiago looked around. “I will go join those two beautiful ladies on the dance floor. Care to join me?”

“Perhaps later. I will grab a drink and wander around for a moment, clear my head, if you don’t mind?”

“Not at all. Take your time,” Santiago said as he took the last sip from his snifter and walked away.

Magnus meandered around, taking in the views until he stumbled upon a young lady with a white dress. Her back was to him, but not for long. As if she’d felt his gaze, she turned. Something about her captivated him at first glance. She stood up; that’s when he noticed the red bowed shoes. A bold contrast to her demure dress and petite figure.

He was again captured by her.

“I apologize, Miss. I didn’t mean to stare so intently. But your beauty? It's captivating,” he said without stumbling over his words. Not wanting to freak her out, he politely smiled, a gesture she returned.

“My name is Magnus,” he hesitated for a moment, not wanting to reveal his identity. “I’m new to town. Visiting,” he said, extending his hand in goodwill.

“Nice to meet you, Magnus from out of town.” She smiled. “I’m Freya, from around here.”

She has a sense of humor! He was already excited.

“Well, Miss Freya from around here. It’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance.”

“Likewise, Magnus. Likewise.” She extended her hand and asked, “Tell me, what attracted you to the Pacific Northwest? Especially this time of year? It’s not tourist season.”

“A good friend of mine lives here. He’s been insistent I come for a visit, and after a little research, I realized it was just what the doctor ordered. I believe that is the saying?” he wondered out loud.

“Yes, it is a saying. But it's typically used when you desperately need a break.”

“I suppose I needed to get away.” He smiled, wondering if he should ask if he could join her.

“I hope you enjoy your time up here. If you get the opportunity, the Olympic Mountain range is a must see. Most people ignore the area altogether, opting for the typical touristy sights, but the area has so much to offer, along with some great wineries.”

“Do you mind if I join you? I’d love to hear more about the places I should visit. You know, off the beaten track.” He winked.

“Not at all. Please. Just know, I’m here with my girlfriends.”

They got to talking about different places Freya recommended. Before they knew it, he already was enjoying a sparkling water with freshly squeezed lime juice of his own as Freya shared a little about her past life as a ballerina. Magnus hung on to her every word. She was intelligent, beautiful, and as far as he could tell, a compassionate human being.

 

 

Freya had engaged nervously in conversation with the handsome man right before her. But as the conversation progressed, he made her feel comfortable. It was like they were old friends and were catching up. He seemed like a sensitive soul. Never mind he was handsome, he was equally intelligent.

 

 

Justine and Marissa rejoined them in the company of Santiago.

Santiago lifted his head. Magnus noticed Santiago side glance him; he reminded himself to ask him what that was about later. In the meantime, he introduced his friend to Freya, and Freya introduced hers to him.

“I see.” Marissa smiled. “Wherever you two come from must produce great quality men.” She laughed. “Sorry, that didn’t come out right. What I’m trying to say is that you all are hot!”

Magnus noticed Justine roll her eyes, a habit he was familiar with. Cossette often did this out of the public view. If there was something that irritated him the most, it was eye-rolling.

“Would you all care for another round of drinks? I could use something as it was getting hot out on the dance floor,” Santiago offered.

“I can use a drink. I’ll accompany you to the bar,” Justine responded.

Marissa looked a little defeated. There was a struggle going on over Santiago, Magnus thought. Perhaps he was missing something. I mean, he’s a handsome fella, but his history as a Don Juan? He shook the thought away; what did he know of Santiago anymore? It’d been years since the two had truly been in each other’s company.

“Freya, are you going to have anything else other than your sparkling water?” Marissa asked as the other two disappeared.

“I’m good for now.”

Magnus took in her graciousness. It was contagious as he caught himself smiling with her.

“How about you, Magnus? What are you drinking?”

“Oh. I’m having the same as Freya.”

“You are kidding, right? Ugh. Please, whatever you do, have fun and do not go all cerebral on each other. We got Freya out tonight, so she can have fun and not sit here and just sit looking hot,” Marissa said as she excused herself.

“Don’t mind her. I think she’s feeling a little envious of Justine now. Your friend caught her eye the moment he walked through those doors.”

Magnus wanted to assure her he wasn’t all he was cracked up to be, but that was useless. What would he be proving?

“No fretting here.” He smiled. “So, how do the three of you know each other?”

“Well, I own a dance studio, just outside the city. My business has been growing, so I found myself in need of additional instructors. Part-time, to offer classes in areas I’m not very strong in. Marissa is an amazing hip-hop dancer, a popular genre now. She’s also an excellent ballerina. Justine, well, she’s just kind of master in all dance forms. She’s been hugely instrumental in my growth these past few years. I rely on her a lot to help me with the different class setups.”

“You all danced together, prior?”

“No. I only met them when they responded to my ad. They’ve known each other from a previous job, so when Justine approached me, she told me about Marissa. It wasn’t a package deal, but I recognized the opportunity in hiring them both. Besides, Marissa is popular with the kids. Like I said, Hip Hop is popular with the kids these days. We still get a lot of interest in the classical forms, just not as much. It’s more the parents pushing it.”

Magnus listened intently to every word she spoke, every gesture she made; there was something about her he couldn’t shake off, captivating him.

“Sounds like the three of you make an amazing team. May I ask why your studio isn’t in the city?”

“Property in the city is expensive unless in a less than desirable place. Because there are so many other services being offered, it means it is more difficult to compete. Also, the more affluent areas gravitate towards studios with a brand, and who’s who, if you will.” She paused. “The suburbs offer me a better opportunity with parents wanting to invest more long-term in their child’s extracurricular activities. Property is less expensive and much more expansive, and I live at my studio.”

The statement caught Magnus off guard when she said the latter. He was unsure about how to ask why she lived at her studio, but she must have seen the question in his face.

“The studio I purchased is a house partially converted into a studio. It had been functioning in previous years, but the former owner didn’t update the place, and it became outdated. I was very fortunate to snatch it at a great price. I’ve put more money to update it and the apartment. It sits off the main road, with enough property to designate a private entry and still have a yard. Albeit, I’m not much of a gardener; I still pay a landscaper to maintain the grounds. It is more than just my home and business, it is my investment. Someday I’d love to outgrow the place and get a bigger, proper studio. So, I need to ensure my clients feel at home and see I’m truly vested in creating a great environment. Some kids spend countless hours at the studio, taking different classes. It’s a home away from home. And we’ve competed within the past year. The competition teams are really doing well out there. I’ve got to keep that momentum going.”

There was a sense of accomplishment in her tone, and her body language showed her love and pride in what she did. Magnus tried to envision the place.

“I’d ask you to dance, but I’m afraid I’m shy now. I don’t really have much to offer in any form of dance. Maybe slow dancing, but anyone can do that. Right?” he jokingly added.

“You’d be surprised! I had a couple come once, early on when I started my studio. He said he couldn’t dance, not even slow dance, but I didn't believe him. After a few lessons, they stumped me. He wasn’t joking!” She laughed. “However, I’m stubborn. I wasn’t giving up. Lucky, they’d come with plenty of time. We had him slow dancing like a pro, and for their first dance, they chose a Viennese Waltz. They did great.”

“I stand corrected.” He smiled. “Freya, if I may, I’d like to see you again. No strings attached, just a coffee or a bite to eat. I like you and would like to get to know you better.” He shocked himself. He hadn’t expected to mingle with the locals like this, but Freya seemed like a woman you’d seldom meet. She had an air both refreshing and interesting. He didn’t want to pass on the opportunity to get to know her better. He wasn’t sure why, but he had to.

“That would be nice. I’m supposed to be trying to get out more. At least, that is what I’ve been telling myself, which is why I’m here.” She hesitated. “But tell me a little more about yourself? Where are you from? What do you do? I’m assuming you must do well for yourself, as it is my understanding they don’t just let anyone into this club. Which baffles me I’m even allowed.” She laughed.

“Yes, I hear it is exclusive. Maybe they’ll catch on to both of us in due time,” he joked. “I’m from a small island off the coast of Spain, in the family business, not necessarily by choice, but that’s a topic for a different day. My family is important. I’m, however, still trying to figure out how I want to navigate in life. I kind of feel they’ve set this path for me, and it’s not that I’m ungrateful, I don’t know how I want to accept my prospective destiny.” He looked away for a few moments before continuing, “My parents intend well, and I know we’ll figure this out.”

“Do you have siblings? I have one younger sister and two older brothers. She’s married, and I constantly feel pressure from my family about settling down.” She laughed. “I haven’t even been in a relationship in like forever! And they want me to settle down? The crazy thing is my brother Tristan is two years older than me; he doesn’t get half the pressure I do, and he isn’t married either. Seems hardly fair if you ask me.”

“I can relate. My parents are what you call traditional. They’d very much like to see me settling down soon. I don’t see that for myself, at least, not now. I have one sister, Cossette. She’s all too eager to please my parents, which is frightening if you ask me. She’s very much an independent thinker, but I think she enjoys the traditional values and comforts a lifestyle such as my families has to offer.”

Freya seemed more relaxed now he noticed as he took a sip of his drink. “Miss Freya, I’m glad I met you. And thank you for allowing me to share your company.”

She looked at him as if unsure how to reply, but he quickly added, “You know, just in case I do not say this later. Thank you.”

“Magnus, you’re welcome. Hey, so, shall we try the dance floor? Isn’t that why we are here, to have fun?”

He couldn’t resist. The twinkle in her eye was hypnotizing.

 

 

Freya couldn’t believe how much she was enjoying herself on the dance floor. Magnus seemed a little stiff, but he had potential if he’d just let his body loose. She threw her arms in the air like she didn’t care and smiled, grooving to the music. One song led to another and another when the heat finally got to her.

“I think I need to grab a drink. How about you?” she asked, hoping it was loud enough for Magnus to hear. He nodded his head, grabbed her hand, and led her off the dance floor where her white dress stood out with the neon lights. Without thinking she followed him as if they’d been familiar with each other for a long time, which caught her off guard when she realized this.

“What do you want to drink?” he asked.

“The same thing I was having earlier. Sparkling water with a splash of lime juice.”

“You know, you really are amazing,” he said, ordering their drinks and causing Freya to wonder what about her most boring drink made her amazing?

They made their way back to their friends who were engaged in a political conversation, causing Freya to cringe. “This might not end well for your friend,” she whispered in Magnus’ ear.

“Oh, no? Why do you say so?” She’d piqued his interest.

“Justine is a hardcore feminist. Marissa just follows. I think she doesn’t want to upset her friend and goes along with anything Justine says.”

“I see. Well, they are fortunate to be in the U.S. then, a country where women have more rights than many others.”

Freya turned to Magnus. “I’m not very political. I mean, I care about various topics, but not to the extent of passionately arguing with random folks about how I feel and what I support. That’s Justine. I’m more of a silent observer, genuinely interested in the world around me, but not voicing my opinions so openly.”

Magnus smiled and didn’t press the topic, but instead changed it.

“I’m hungry. I grabbed nothing to eat this evening, and I’m not interested in anything this establishment has to offer. Why don’t we leave and find a diner or something, if that’s okay with you?”

“A diner? Hmm? Let me think.” Jogging her memory, she couldn’t think of anything immediately. “You will think this is silly, but I don’t even know what is open right now. I’m not familiar with the nightlife around here anymore.” She laughed as they sat with the others.

“Freya, glad to see you enjoying yourself!” Marissa exclaimed. “You were working it on the dance floor.”

“I’m trying.”

“Freya and I will grab a bite to eat. If anyone cares to join us?”

“I’d love to get out of here. What’s the plan?” Justine asked with a somewhat defeated look on her face. Freya knew the look. Santiago must have been a great sparring partner as far as it concerned politics.

“We don’t know!” Freya laughed. “I’m such a hermit I don’t even know where to go out to eat this late at night.”

“It’s not that late,” Marissa challenged. “Besides, you know what sounds fantastic right now, and I haven’t been there in like forever? 13 Coins!”

“Oh! That sounds good,” Freya agreed. “Besides, Magnus is new to the area. I think it would serve him well to go to a local favorite.”

Freya noticed that Santiago didn’t look very impressed. She didn’t care; the more she thought about food, the hungrier she became.

 

 

“I see you’ve been enjoying yourself with Freya. She’s beautiful, and not very much like her friends from what I can tell,” Santiago said to Magnus as they got into the awaiting car. The women opted to take an Uber and meet them there. Magnus wanted to join them, but the vehicle was smaller, plus Santiago had a driver waiting.

“She’s very interesting. It helps that she is beautiful, but she’s easy to converse with and not in a ‘trying hard to impress me’ kind of way.”

“Just be careful, Your Highness. Remember, your life differs greatly from hers. Besides, I checked up on her two friends. They aren’t necessarily good girls. Seems they used to work as escorts. I checked on Freya. Her name is Freya Sinclair. It appears she’s led a very mundane life since a ballet injury which caused her young career to end. She seems to have a good head on her shoulders. Regardless, she’s not a royal and doesn’t come from money. Her mother was a nurse. She seemed to stop working when she and her husband had children. Her father was an engineer out at Hanford in eastern Washington, the nuclear waste site. Her eldest married brother followed in the father’s footsteps as far as a career. The other brother has an interesting job traveling around the world. Something to do with toys. I couldn’t get more. And her younger sister is also married. Her husband is an OB/GYN. A doctor. Her entire family went to Washington State University, expect for Freya. She attended the University of Washington.”

Magnus shifted in the moving car and looked over at Santiago. He wondered why he’d done what he did, but he figured it would happen, eventually. His father wouldn’t allow him to gallivant to another country without having insight into what he was doing. Especially with the scandal ensuing now in Spain and Martierra, reminding him it was a good time to check in with his secretary.

“Thank you, Santi. I appreciate your looking out for me. I still find it fascinating how quickly you or anyone at the palace can gather Intel on a person,” he said as he looked down at his phone and wrote a message.

Santiago was speaking to the driver when Magnus felt his phone vibrate. He looked down at the screen: Prince Magnus, nothing new to report. The media are regurgitating the breaking story. I’ve spoken to the King. He believes you. He’s kind of happy you aren’t over here for this frenzy. Please check in with him when you have a moment. Also, your friend Santiago de la Cruz had the palace run a background on three women. Escorts? Please do not make this fiasco any worse.

Magnus could feel his blood boil. Santiago had used the palace resources to check up on Freya and her friends. It bothered Magnus. What gave him the right to do so? he thought. But he wouldn’t address this now. He replied to his secretary: Bernard, thank you for the report. I’ll reach out to my father later. Also, please ensure Santiago uses none of the palace resources again. I’ll address this issue with him, but those services are to be closely guarded. Oh, and one other thing. Miss Freya Sinclair is not nor ever was an escort. Please ensure you review the facts correctly. Assumptions can be damaging. Thank you.

“Everything all right back home?” Santiago inquired.

 

“Yes, everything is all right.” He wondered if he should press the security issue, but they’d arrived at the diner, so he passed on the opportunity.

They’d arrived before Freya and her friends, giving Magnus a small window to reach out to his father, the King.

“Hello, Crescencio,” he said, walking away from Santiago as he headed into the restaurant. “How have you been?”

“Prince Magnus. I’ve been well, thank you. I’ll pass you through to the King at once. He’s been expecting your call.”

Crescencio, his father’s secretary, unlike his own secretary, wasn’t about small talk. He did his job efficiently and spoke only when necessary. He’d also been with his father since he’d become a young King.

“Magnus! Son. How are you?” The King’s voice carried sincerity in the question.

“Father. I’m relatively well. I’ve already taken in a few sights since my arrival. This evening I met up with Santiago -”

The King immediately cut him off. “Oh yes, I’ve heard. Just a gentle reminder, son, Santiago has a reputation. Not a favorable one, I’m afraid. Please, make sure you steer with caution. As you know, we are already working diligently at putting out a major rumor on this side of the pond.” There was a jest in his tone as he attempted to prove to Magnus he stood steadfast at his side.

“Yes, Father. And about that allegation coming out of Spain. I appreciate your support. I do not understand where that rumor is coming from. I’ve seen the photo of the woman, and I am not familiar with her. Besides, my last trip to Spain was strictly business. I did not deviate from my agenda in the least. Which is why I’m baffled? This is insane. To fabricate such a blatant lie? Unfathomable.” Magnus found himself more curious why this woman went to the press with such a lie. An idea percolated. He’d figure something out, and soon.

“Son. Often, these matters are motivated by money or an enemy. This outlandish lie smells of both. We’ve been digging and cannot find anything on this woman. I suspect it isn’t even her real name. It doesn’t matter. I believe you, and we’ll sort this out. But enough of that. You enjoy yourself. Just remember to check in regularly until I have more on this matter to share. In the meantime, I have a meeting I need to get to. We love you, son.” The King didn’t wait for Magnus to reply as he disconnected the call.

Magnus stood, taking in the cold night for a few moments to allow his head to clear. Something his father said was bothering him. He spoke of Santiago’s ways in the present and not in the past. He sent Bernard a quick message: When you have a moment. Tell me why my father still doesn’t trust Santiago.

The great thing about his relationship with Bernard, like that of his fathers with Crescencio, was there wasn’t a need to mince words. They drove straight to the point and communicated on a level of mutual respect and understanding, under the strictest of confidentiality.

 

 

The meal at 13 Coins was scrumptious. The food was filling, aside from the massive portions. He’d opted for the Sesame-Seared Ahi with Asian coleslaw, wasabi, and pickled ginger. The conversation at the table was as easy flowing as it had been in their youth. Santiago needed to control the momentum, something Magnus was great in avoiding.

He turned to Freya who’d just finished her Eggs Benedict. She didn’t seem as impressed with Santiago as Marissa was. Justine, who was more the combative type, listened and injected commentary that was often spot-on making Santiago out to be a misogynistic pig while hissing at Marissa for falling for his antics.

Magnus supposed Santiago wasn’t accustomed to encountering a woman who didn’t seem so keen on him, but if what Freya said was true, Justine wasn’t Santi’s type. Too strong-willed, with opinions that differed from his own. Santiago was more of the low-hanging fruit type. Although, he’d known from back home that Cossette had shunned him. She wanted nothing to do with him when all her friends were practically throwing themselves at him. It was one moment that made Magnus proud, witnessing his sister put him in his place, quickly, and with such an air of a Princess, reminding those in their group of her royal status.

Freya and Magnus exchanged numbers. They’d agreed to a nice long hike on Sunday when Freya’s studio was closed. Besides, it gave Magnus time to grab some hiking gear. He had packed none, banking on the fact he had a few stores to pick from based on his research of the area and hiking blogs.

Magnus excused himself to the men’s room when he saw a text message come in from Bernard. As soon as he stepped away, he read it: Prince Magnus, please call me as soon as you can.

That usually meant it was urgent.

“Bernard, what’s the issue?”

“Do not say a word. It appears the media have received a tip as to your whereabouts. Steer cautiously, Your Royal Highness. And please get back to your hotel as soon as you can so we may discuss strategy. I’ve already contacted your detail, they’ll be there shortly. I know how much you dislike this, Prince Magnus, but I need your help here. Please turn your app back on so your detail may track you.”

“But how do they know?”

“Think about it, Your Royal Highness.”

Magnus didn’t want to believe his friend would’ve been capable of outing him. However, aside from his family, only Santiago knew of his whereabouts. The three women had no clue who he was so it couldn’t have been them. Unless someone at the club recognized him, which was possible, but he believed Santiago was the snitch.

“Thank you, Bernard. Text me as soon as they land, and I’ll activate the app you had created for the family. Just remind them to please keep their distance.”

When he returned to the table, it was clear Freya noticed a slight change in his demeanor as she inquired if he was all right. He assured her everything was fine; the jetlag was getting to him and exhaustion was settling in after a big meal. But he appreciated her keen perceptiveness.

When they exited the restaurant, there were two paparazzi. Great! Magnus thought as he rushed to the awaiting vehicle. Santiago shoved the girls in right behind them, something Magnus didn’t appreciate. He knew it would only stir up more things to write about and it was just a matter of time before Justine and Marissa’s past occupation somehow came back to haunt them all.

“What is this all about?” Justine asked looking through the heavily tinted windows.

Santiago didn’t reply; he waited for Magnus.

“Well, either of you going to answer? Why were those men surrounding us and taking pictures? And why were they calling you a prince, Magnus?” Justine pressed the issue. Seemingly unimpressed with the title, there was something deeper brewing in her.

“Why don’t we head back to Santiago’s place, and I’ll explain everything. In the meantime, we need to get out of here as quickly as possible.”

Freya looked over at Magnus. She was sitting on Marissa’s lap. Justine was in the middle back seat and Magnus on the other side of her. Santiago took the passenger seat up front and was on the phone barking orders at someone.

Magnus wanted very much to disappear at that moment, but every time he looked at Freya, something nudged him. He wanted desperately to explain what was going on, one on one, but it was too late for that now.

Santiago’s driver was good; he’d lost a single vehicle that seemed to be in pursuit as he sped through a tunnel which placed them on a floating bridge and right back into another tunnel. The sign on the freeway read ‘Mercer Island’ as they exited.

Santiago lived in a massive Tuscan style house on the waterfront. The gated entrance led through a paved driveway right up to a massive portico. He’d always been flamboyant, so it didn't surprise Magnus.

The ladies, except Freya who was more paying attention to Magnus, complimented Santiago who seemed to brush it off as no big deal. But Magnus knew him well enough that surely, he was soaking up the attention.

They found their way to a massive room with floor-to-ceiling windows looking out onto the water. Mood lighting throughout the backyard highlighted the opulent swimming pool, water features, and a pathway towards a private deck.

“Will you please tell us now what happened back at the restaurant?” Justine said, taking a seat closest to a massive fireplace that looked like it would swallow her whole.

“First, allow me to apologize. None of this should have happened. No one knew, except for my family and Santiago, of my whereabouts.” Magnus refrained from looking at Santiago, knowing well it would be more accusatory. “Those photographers, they are paparazzi. Someone tipped them off with my location. I’m sorry the three of you had to experience that.”

“But why? Why are they following you? And why did one call you a prince?” Justine wasn’t giving in so easily, Magnus knew this much in these few hours of making their acquaintance.

“Because I am a Prince. I’m in fact, the Crown Prince of Martierra.” He waited for a reaction.

“Martierra?” Marissa asked.

“A small island near Spain, easily associated as being part of that country.” He looked at Freya who wouldn’t even look at him. It bothered him, but he knew it was outlandish news to learn.

Magnus caught Justine looking the information up to verify what he’d just shared. Marissa and Freya intently watched her, waiting for her to either confirm or deny what he’d just told them.

“Well, he’s telling the truth,” she said, but there was something more, and it suddenly dawned on Magnus that she’d probably stumbled on the scandal that had recently ensued in Spain. “So, did you escape home to get away from your responsibilities? You know, like getting a woman pregnant?”

WOW! She is relentless, Magnus thought.

“I didn’t get her pregnant. I don’t even know the woman. And I didn’t even find out about that until I’d arrived here.”

“You don’t owe us an explanation, Magnus,” Freya abruptly stated. “We really need to go. It's late.”

“Freya, please, allow me...”

She didn’t let him finish. “Magnus. It’s fine. Regardless, whether that news is true, it really is none of our business. It was a fun evening. Thank you.” She got up to walk away, but hesitated and said, “Oh, and please be assured, none of us will speak to the media. I simply ask that you leave the three of us out of whatever stories might come out of your camp.”

The words stung.

“Santiago, may I be so bold to ask if your driver can please get us home? I’d call an Uber, but I think it is best to keep this as private as possible,” Freya suggested.

“Of course. That’s not an issue at all. Whatever you three need just let me know.”

“Thank you. That will be all.”

Freya walked away as Marissa and Justine said their goodbyes. Magnus tried to catch up, but Freya didn’t want to speak to him. She turned on her red heels and asked him to stay away.

The driver waited with the opened door and helped the woman scoot into the back seat of the luxury sedan. Freya still wouldn’t look at Magnus.