Chapter 35. Princess Xoe

“I’m sorry. I didn’t know anyone was out here.” Princess Xoe said as soon as she saw Joi on the deck, sitting on the railing with his head bowed. She spun around and walked away, hoping to return to the ship.

“No, you do not have to leave, princess,” Joi said, jumping down the railing where he sat, staring at the small drawing of his wife on the necklace pendant in his hand.

She paused but didn’t turn to him as she spoke. “You were having alone time, and I didn’t want to disturb you.”

“It’s all fine, princess, you can stay. It’s been a week on the sea and I just wanted to have this time to myself. It’s already over two hours of doing that.” the wind was mild and soothing too, which was a bonus for him. They brought back memories, good ones.

She turned around to stare at him. “Thank you. I’d rather you call me Xoe, though.”

His brow narrowed. “But you are a princess.”

She nodded, not disputing that face. “I am a princess only to those in the kingdo