Chapter 4

Being on time, Amelia discovered, was apparently a royal virtue. At precisely 11 a.m., a sleek black car with tinted windows pulled up to her grandfather's estate. She watched from her bedroom window as Prince Niko emerged, accompanied by a security detail that took positions around the driveway perimeter.

Amelia smoothed down her knee-length pale blue sundress and took a steadying breath. Last night's dinner had been a formal affair with family present. Today would be their first real opportunity to speak privately.

"You look lovely," her mother said from the doorway.

Amelia turned, forcing a smile. "I'm really nervous, if I'm being honest."

Gloria crossed the room and took her daughter's hands. "That's natural, sweetheart. But remember, he asked to see you again. That's a good sign. He could have just waited until the wedding."

A knock at the door interrupted them. Her father poked his head in. "Amelia, your prince is here."

"He's not my prince yet," s