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She took a moment to look around the room. She had never been in the prince’s chambers before yesterday and even then she had been so focused on why she could hear his thoughts she didn’t take in her surroundings. The furnishings were surprisingly sparse.

It’s a functional space, he said, obviously picking up on her thoughts. I haven’t lived here for several years and my visits were often short when I did return home.

But it is home.

Yes. He paused. Yes, it is.

Danet set the basket of linens on the floor not far from the bed. The bed itself was oversized, obviously made to accommodate the prince’s large frame. However it was a simple structure. A mattress set upon a platform, neither far from the ground. The linens were plain but of the finest quality.

The prince had been placed in the center with a sheet covering his lower half.

Before she looked at his face, she reminded herself she had company in her head and shouldn’t comment on anything she saw. The last time she had a glimpse of the prince she remembered thinking he was handsome enough that he would never have to worry about finding his princess.

So, how are you today? she asked, struggling for neutral conversation.

He growled. How he managed to project the sound in her head puzzled her, yet made her smile. 

I am alive.

Have the physicians checked on you yet?

Yes. I have endured poking and prodding again this morning.

Did they say anything?

I heard two people whispering that, other than an increased heartbeat, they didn’t detect any changes. They worried that Darius would not be pleased.

I’m sure he isn’t.

I worry more about Mother and how she is handling this so soon after Father.

Your mother is a very strong, capable woman. She will do what she has to do to see you well and to cope with whatever comes her way.

The prince paused. You are right. Another pause. Thank you.

I speak only the truth.

She allowed him a moment to let the thought sink in. As she waited, it occurred to Danet the connection had become stronger and she could hear him much better. It sounded as if he were speaking from across the room instead of down an empty hall.

I am going to change your bed linens to make myself busy lest it appear I came in here just to admire your princely beauty.

You may admire my princely beauty as well.His appreciation of her sarcasm came through their connection.

She snorted. I am sure you have an ample supply of ladies to do that. I’ll stick with trying to heal you.