The royal castle loomed before them, its ancient stone walls gleaming in the afternoon sun. Towers stretched toward the sky, their banners snapping in the breeze. The grandeur of it all made Meriem's breath catch in her throat.
She had seen the castle before—from a distance, in photographs, in the stories her mother used to tell her. But she had never imagined stepping through its gates. Never imagined being welcomed by royalty.
The SUV rolled to a stop in the courtyard. Servants rushed forward to open the doors, their movements efficient and practiced.
Attia stepped out first, his hand reaching back to help Lori. Then he turned to Meriem, his expression gentle.
"Ready?" he asked.
Meriem's hands were trembling.
"I don't know," she admitted. "I've never—I never imagined—"
"You're saf
