I pace the aisle of the private plane, my nails tapping against my phone screen anxiously. I haven't heard from Harry for a few days, no texts or calls, and here I am on a plane with no logical reason for him to be missing in action with an itinerary to Greece being written as I stand on this plane waiting for take off. If I had my way, I would be using this time and the taxpayers' money to be going somewhere beneficial to the monarch, I would be doing a small trip to bring light to the monarch since my father has created a turmoil of issues and slammed me with the press but I was outvoted at the meeting a few days ago in regards to official affairs and damage control.

Upon the opening of the plane door, I am filled with a surge of anger upon seeing Harry and his luggage directly behind him. "I apologize, please know that I am sorry," he hastily offers, but I simply shake my head and approach him. I press my palms against his chest and firmly guide him back until he is up against the door of the aircraft. "Oh, fuck," he sighs.

"That's all you have to say?" I question with a low voice, "You decide to go missing in action and all I get is 'Oh, fuck.'"

"Do you have an explanation?" I demand. "If not, I suggest you come up with a convincing one quickly or I will throw you out of this plane," I warn Harry.

Harry responds with a mischievous smile, "Oh really? I'd love to see you try. It has been a terrible day for me, so go ahead and give it your best fucking shot, my dear." He then grabs me by the back of my neck and pulls me close, kissing me passionately as if it was his last day alive and he wanted to make it count. "Go ahead, push me," he whispers against my lips, his hands draping to my hips and squeezing them tightly.

I shake my head in frustration at his behaviour. I push him away and say, "I won't give you the satisfaction." I turn around and start walking away from him.

But he grabs my wrist and pulls me back towards him in a spin. I collide with his body and let out a sigh. He says, "Go ahead, take your frustration out on me."

I respond, "Don't try to blame me for your actions." ... "You say you want to marry me and then go missing. Not very husband of you."

I know he wasn't always with my Father, he took a flight somewhere unknown before he was on my Father's services.

"Drop the glass veil you're holding over you. You know why I have been gone."

I shake my head, "I do not. Enlighten me, future husband."

"I've been stuck on your father's service, and he's giving me hell. My possibly future father-in-law isn't very fucking kind right now." Harry informs me, placing his suitcase in an overhead before allowing his suit jacket to fall down his arms. "He might just run this monarchy into the ground before you do."

I watch as his hand dances its way to the other wrist, slowly unbuttoning the wrist and rolling his sleeves effortlessly. I gawk, unable to tear my eyes away from him. He forcefully takes his tie off and throws it over the seat, his hands then moving to take the pistol out of his waistband, placing it down safely. "Are you even listening to me?" Harry questions, taking my stare and meeting my eyes.

I bite my lip and shake my head. "I-uh—," I trail off, "No."

Harry rolls his eyes and sighs, "We have a full team of security, I'm on your service, lucky me" he sarcastically mutters ... "It is a clear flight plan. Matthew will sweep the hotel first. It's a three-and-a-half-hour flight, we should be arriving at four in the morning since they're two hours ahead of us."

I nod my head, cocking my head to the side, "It's fucking hot in here," Harry mutters, looking around the private plane, and leaning up to attempt to adjust the overhead heating and air.

"Mhm, you don't say," I smirk, undressing him with my eyes. "So, nobody else is riding the plane with us?" I question, stepping closer to him. He shakes his head, "Mm, so we have three hours to ourselves?"

Harry nods his head, "Yes?" He raises a brow, my fingers dancing their way to the buttons of his shirt, slowly unbuttoning them.

"Uninterrupted time with you, no phones, no duties," I whisper, leaning up and kissing him softly.

"So now you want to be a sweetheart? Just a few moments ago you threatened to throw me out of the fucking plane."

"Comes with the territory," I chuckle, feeling his hands pull me closer to him at my hips.

"As much as I'd like to continue this, I need to sit down for a few minutes," Harry politely informs me, "I've been awake for thirty hours, and I've been standing for most of them."

I nod my head and offer him a small smile as I gesture towards the seats. I sometimes find myself forgetting the man pulls hours that I wouldn't dream of pulling myself.

"Why is the royal family going to Greece? Do they even have a king?" Harry questions as he takes a seat. "Last I checked, there was no royal family."

I shake my head, "The Constitution of Greece, which describes Greece as a "presidential-parliamentary republic"-" I begin but I'm promptly cut off.

"Anna, I'm tired, can I have the short version?" Harry offers me a petite smile, stopping me from rambling and explaining things thoroughly to him.

"There's no monarchy. In July 1973 the Greek military called a 'referendum', which abolished the Monarchy for the second time in Greek history."

"It failed, twice?" Harry curiously inquires.

I nod my head, "The Greek monarchy existed from 1832 to 1924, and again from 1935 to 1974."

Harry grows withdrawn for a moment. "So, tell me again why we are being dragged to Greece? Because I'd rather not go."

"Well, I was hoping you'd have the answer to that."

"Why would I?" He questions, raising a brow.

"You were with the king for a few days on a secret mission I know nothing about."

Harry heavily sighs and nods his head, "And it was a long few days. But he didn't tell me anything. I am not sure why you assume he tells me his plans."

"He didn't mention anything?"

Harry shakes his head, "No, nothing that could point to why we are going to Greece. Are they bringing back their monarchy?"

It appears as though we are both at a loss as to why this trip is happening. There has to be someone who knows the exact reasons. The itinerary doesn't reveal much. For the most part, it is my father doing most of the obligations solo and at unusual hours.

"I highly doubt it. Maybe we have finally been invited by the Greek president to make a state visit? Maybe he wants to boost ties in the region? I don't know. Nobody wants to be around him, nobody knows what the hell he is doing. I think he's going to end up turning the monarch to shit." I inform Hary of my opinions. Up until recently, he has done a standup job with handling things and keeping the monarch up to high standards, but for some reason, he has flipped a switch.

There is no reason for him to abdicate and I don't see why he would want me to stand in for him. This isn't a situation where he is handing me his legacy because he thinks I am fit for the job. I'm not ready for the responsibility, but everyone wants to bestow it upon me. It is all anybody talks about since it was announced.

"I don't think he'll ruin the monarchy, I'm sure he knows what he's doing."

"Yeah, burning it to the ground with Syrus," I grumble.

Harry grows reserved for a moment before clearing his throat and speaking, "Would that be such a bad thing?" .... "I mean, I'm just asking as a future king, ya know?" Harry immediately adjusts his tone, regarding my glare and the fact I'm not amused by any of it. "You said you'd burn it to the ground. What's the difference?"

I hum, "Mhm, I'm sure the future king is very concerned about the monarchy. I am pretty sure you said you would burn it to the ground for me. Does that offer still stand?"

"Of course, I am concerned. I mean, the people's lives are in my hands." ... "As for the offer, anytime you give me the word, I will do it."

"Steady there, don't get too far ahead," I chuckle, "There's no way my people's lives are in your hands. You haven't fully convinced me that you will marry me. I'm still just a girl in love with a man who has commitment issues."

"Wouldn't they be our people?" Harry emphasizes 'our.'

I roll my eyes playfully, a chuckle escaping between my lips. This is why I love this man. "Uhm, do you know how the monarch works, darling? You're lucky if they honour you as king consort, and at this rate, you aren't being honoured at all, did you forget? Nobody knows we are together."

"I don't care if I don't have an honorary title."

"Maybe one day you will have a title." I shrug. I know he couldn't care less about a title or anything to do with being royal. He would stay under the radar for the rest of our lives together if it was allowed.

Harry nods his head before slumping down in a seat, his hands rubbing his eyes while his elbows rest on his knees.

While Harry takes a minute to decompress and relax, I begin to rethink everything that has been packed, the feeling of forgetting something sinking into my thoughts.

I mentally check off the things that I'm aware have been handled, passport, black outfit (mourning attire), skincare, makeup, and jewellery. "I feel like I'm forgetting something," I murmur, watching as Harry leans back and closes his eyes, "The luggage has all been counted for, right?" I ask Harry, aware that he has probably double-checked everything as well.

"It is hard to ignore the colour-coded luggage system. It's all perfect, monograms and all," Harry responds with a petite grin, "I know you're staring at me, stop," Harry chuckles.

"Harry, I'm forgetting something... luggage, passport.." I begin to think out loud.

I can't wholly think of what it is, but there is a deep-rooted sense in the pit of my stomach that I can't shake. It is either my gut telling me I have forgotten something or my intuition is screaming at me for some reason. I can't assume it is a bad feeling,  but whatever it is, I can't seem to shake it. Whatever it is, it worries me.

"Did you forget your crown?" Harry sarcastically responds as he opens an eye and glances at me.

I shake my head, "Smart ass."

"What?" He softly challenges, still wanting to doze off. "I hope this serves as a lesson for you," Harry mutters as he begins to adjust himself in the seat and shove his hands into his pocket. His fingers pull out a gold ring he bought me a a while ago, "Matthew found it and handed it to me. Good thing I haven't had time to buy a diamond ring yet, you'd fucking lose it."

"I would not. You aren't getting me a diamond ring." I object as I let out a breath of relief and smile at him while I carefully decide to rest in his lap, straddling his hips.

He opens his eyes, blinking at me. I don't say a word, instead, I lean down and leave a trail of sugary kisses on his neck and jawline. His hands move and rest on the small of my back as he lets out a heavy breath. "Anna," Harry whispers. " I'm tired. I love you, but the next four hours are the only hours I get to sleep, as soon as we land I have to work, can we finish this later?"

"Later? We won't have time, I have my duties." I huff, a little irritated that he is turning me down. We have been too busy and constantly surrounded by people that we have not had many moments to be intimate.

"I promise there will be time, I'll make sure of it."

"What do you even have to do when we land? Can't you come to the hotel with me?" I ask Harry, batting my eyes at him in an attempt to get my way.

"I have to make sure the itinerary is being kept secret by the palace. I have to do my job, Anna, so many things to do before your family meets with the public officials or the world leaders, I don't know what the hell your Dad has fully planned. What I know is that I have a lot to do. I have Oliver to train, I'll be jumping from your service to the kings—" Harry begins to somewhat ramble about things, his thoughts running at one hundred different things. "You need to do your SAS training, you have a refresher course to do."

I roll my eyes and dismiss the conversation, settling into the seat and taking my spare time to respond to emails, encourage my PR team to shield me from the media, and as always, doing royal duties and represent myself as a stable, future queen.

♔♔♔

Harry's pov

Since landing at four this morning, I haven't slept or stopped working, I feel as though it has been one thing after another that has necessitated my direct attention.

It's times like this that I wonder why I agreed to become a royal bodyguard, life would be more peaceful if I had stayed in the countryside with my mother, but then I wouldn't have met Anna. I wouldn't be in love. Instead, I would probably be doing worse things though.

I'm on the King's service for most of the day, and I already despise it. He's not the most straightforward man to look after at the moment. He can't give me a full list of the men and women he desires to meet today, therefore not permitting me to do a fitting background check to ensure the safety of the family. He won't cooperate at all, and I've already had to play hide and seek with him twice. By the time I'm off his service, I'm going to require a stiff drink, perhaps even the bottle. I'm not sure what has shifted with the king, but he is not acting like himself. Well, he's acting shadier than usual, and it doesn't settle well with me. Matthew has noticed a few red flags but not enough to take too much action, not that he can do anything, he is hired by the king, who is Matthew to confront the king?

I take a sip of my third coffee of the morning and stroll down the hallway of the hotel room, checking each door handle in the corner of my eye, making sure they all still have the do-not-disturb sign on them. We've managed to clear the floor so only the royals and the staff are on it. If any sign is disrupted, I know we aren't the only ones using certain rooms. I reach the end of the hallway where I meet the trainee, Oliver.

I give him a nod and he clears his throat, "The princess hasn't come out."

"Mhm, I was requested to go over protocol for today with her. While I explain it to her, I expect you're already aware of the procedures and the itinerary?" I challenge, taking another sip of my coffee— I need something stronger. If it wasn't immoral I would add a shot of liquor to this coffee.

Oliver nods his head, "Yes. Do I ride in the car with her?"

"Yes, and you never let her open or close her car door. Don't let anyone touch her, today isn't about hugs." I inform Oliver. "Do you know where the nearest A&E is in case of a medical emergency?" I question, making sure he has the basics covered.

I don't assume a trip to A&E is on the cards but there is no telling what will happen.

Oliver nods his head, "Twelve minutes from where we will be at. And twenty-five minutes from this hotel."

"Correct." I swipe the key to her room. "Put your tie on before you leave for the event," I instruct firmly. I know wearing a tie is irritating and an insignificant thing, but we have to fit in with everyone else, which means dressing the part as well. If photos are taken, we don't want to look like the odd ones out in the background. Also, it is part of our attire when diplomats and possibly other royals are around. "And don't let anyone enter this room," I instruct.

I walk into Anastasia's room and close the door behind me. I step closer towards her as she remains at the edge of the bed in her coat dress, "Good morning." I softly beam, leaning down and kissing her cheek. "I bought you coffee," I inform her, placing her coffee on the nightstand, "Just the way you like it, full of milk and cinnamon shit."

"Good morning. You never came to bed last night." Anastasia gazes up at me while I take a step back. "And we don't all drink our coffee straight. It's not tequila."

I chuckle at her comment and shrug my shoulders.

"Your father has had me working since we landed. Already done two meetings and I'm on my third? Cup of coffee. Could it be my fourth?" I challenge myself, unsure of what number I am on.

Anastasia beams up at me, "I'm sorry, will you be on my service today?"

She's hopeful, I can recognise it in her eyes, but we both know the answer. "I'm leaving you in the hands of my trainee, but I'll keep a close eye on him and you. Your father wants me. Not sure why." I inform Anastasia, placing my cup of coffee down before I kneel before her, "Maybe tonight I'll make it to bed," I smile up at her, taking one of her heeled shoes and sliding it on her foot.

Anastasia sighs, "I hope so, I'm tired of sleeping alone."

I fiddle with the clasp of her shoe, struggling to clip the damn thing securely around her ankle, "At least you're sleeping," I mutter under my breath, not meaning to sound like a prick. Once the words slip from my mouth, I know she didn't deserve the comment. "I'm sorry. That was uncalled for."

Anastasia shakes her head as she leans back on her elbows, waiting for me to clasp her other shoe for her, "I'd be irritated too if I was you."

"Well, doesn't mean I'm entitled to snarky comments with you." I point out my own mistake.

"I'll remind you the next time we argue and you throw me snarky comments." Anastasia chuckles.

I roll my eyes before I stand to my feet. I tower over her before I place a hand on either side of her on the bed, gingerly lowering myself closer to her. "That doesn't count," I whisper, kissing her lips slowly and sweetly.

My lips proceed to brush themselves against the delicacy of hers, teasing her for a brief moment. I take possession of her mouth, my lips syncing with hers, tongues colliding while her shameless hands investigate my body, one hand pressed to the back of my neck, the other travelling up and down my body, cunningly, undecided on what part she wants to devour more.

I can't help myself as I drag my lips from hers and begin to leave kisses down her neck, loving the sensation of her fevered skin and her breaths accelerating. Amid audacious hands striving to seize every inch she concedes, my own hands working their way to the hem of her dress, delicately gliding my warm hand gradually up the side of her leg, my fingers resting when I touch the lace hidden under her dress. I leisurely creep my agile fingers to fondle the lace line, delicately dipping my fingers around them, the bold caress of her tongue becoming further filled with passion, my fingers mildly teasing her with every graze over the lace.

I move them to the side and before I can do anything, a knock at the door sounds. "Fuck," I murmur with a heavy breath.

"Harry," she breathes, "Please."

"I can't explain this to the King on why I am late, I need my job."

Anastasia huffs and sits up, adjusting her dress as I move away from her, "You can afford racehorses, I think you'd be fine."

"I need my job."

"I need you," Anna responds, narrowing her eyes down on me. I swallow hard, wanting her just as badly.

I step to where I left my coffee, cupping it in my hand as I wander towards the hotel door. I need to walk out before I end up hovering over her again. "I'll make it up to you, promise," I respond.

I step out of Anna's room where Oliver and Matthew stare at me with their pockets in their hands, "She is well aware of the protocol," I inform them both, keeping up the charade. Matthew hides his smirk as he clears his throat and nods. I should probably be more careful about how I handle things with the new guy, I'm not sure whether he can be trusted or not, and since he's on my service, I need to have excuses for why I'm around Anna when I technically don't need to be. I'll be glad when we aren't having to hide and tiptoe around everybody, but I have this feeling that things won't change soon.

"Harry, the King is ready for you to escort him to the car. Oliver, you're with the Princess. I'll be watching you both and scouring the boat." Matthew informs Oliver and me, keeping a stern glare towards Oliver. It's not the easiest to train someone when I have to be on someone else's service, but I'll do my best to watch him from afar and keep an eye on him. Surely, he can manage a few hours while we are all together.

I nod my head and begin to wander down the carpeted hallway, enjoying my last few moments of silence and coffee before I'm thrown into the hectic world of watching over the King.

"Matthew," I softly grasp matthews attention, "What's my chances of taking Anna's service for the car ride to the dock?" I question.

Matthew grows quiet before answering me, "What's in it for me?"

"What do you want?" I question, curious as to what he's willing to barter for.

Mathew hums, "I have paperwork on my desk, it becomes yours if you want to swap."

"Deal," I agree, "I feel like an office day anyway," I wink, more than happy to do paperwork when I arrive back home.

I separate from Matthew and Oliver and I make my way through the quiet lobby of the hotel, walking across the marbled flooring before I push the doors open and walk out. I adjust my jacket before walking down the steps to the black limo awaiting. I open the door and step in, closing the door before I look up at Anna. "Well, if you're the new security guy, my boyfriend is going to have an issue," Anna grins.

"Driver, adjust the partisan," I request, my eyes watching as the driver presses a button and the partition rises, creating a blacked-out space between us and the driver.

I graciously make my way to where Anna sits at the back of the limo, "Are you on my service?" Anna questions and I shake my head as I gently press my hand to her chest, laying her down against the leather seats.

I press my lips to her neck, kissing her delicately while my hands glide up her thigh, ignoring her dress. "You said you needed me, here I am," I mumble against her warm skin, trailing towards her lips. She pulls me into her at my belt and deepens the kiss, moaning into me at the slightest gaze across her lace underwear.

"We don't have long," Anna whispers, and I kiss her lips.

"Then shut up, and kiss me," I whisper against her lips, feeling her squirm under me before she leans her head back and lets out a moan...

♔♔♔

I stand beside the King, examining each person who shakes his hand, one immediately catching my attention. I take note as his eyes shift from the king to me, following my suit jacket and resting at my waistband. He can be gazing at one of two things, and I sure as hope he's looking at, or for, the pistol that I have hidden in my waistband but not where it can be seen. I stare the man down and he pretends to stare innocently in another direction. I continue to stare him down until the King decides to move forward, moving to another area of the boat with one of the few men he has been talking to.

I accompany the king around on the tour of this navy boat, not impressed with the boat itself, more so interested in why there's a meeting with leaders on a retired navy boat. This has to be the most pointless and uninteresting reveal that I have had to attend. I don't understand why this was on the itinerary or even why Anastasia came but the Queen was able to stay at the hotel. 

The King's conversations have been kept very hushed, not even I can listen in too much, for some reason, the King doesn't want me hearing and he is doing everything possible to keep me in the dark when it comes to the conversations taking place. At least he isn't running off on me like he has a few times. I am surprised he hasn't forced me to stay in a corner while he discusses affairs with these men. I chew on the corner of my mouth, noticing that Anna and Oliver are nowhere around me. I side-eye towards Matthew, looking towards him for instructions or some sort of update. He knows my look when I want an update on Anastasia. It takes Matthew a moment to catch my stare before I hear him come through my earpiece.

"You have a relentless stare. She is fine, Oliver is downstairs with her. Watch the man in front of you, he's pacing," Matthew instructs, forcing my attention to go towards the man who already has an eye on me. I mentally sigh, reminding myself that deep down, I love my job.

With a swift moment to spare, I glance at my phone—no signal.

It hits me. This meeting is happening off the grid. There's nothing to track us besides the tender boats we took out here. It also means no unwanted people can listen in on conversations. My stomach drops. This is a setup. Years of training kick in, and my instincts honed to read situations like this. Irritation bubbles up inside me—I should have caught this sooner before things escalated to this point. But I allowed Alaric to downplay the situation and cloud my judgment.

Alaric had been secretive from the start, offering vague explanations that left everyone guessing why this small royal tour was happening. He spoke of mending broken ties with Greece, but his evasiveness masked deeper issues. Now, it's clear: this has turned into a trap, and Alaric has fallen for it. He's in grave danger, and so are we.

The realization crashes over me, cold and sharp. I scan the deck, searching for Anna. I need to get her off this boat and to safety. Now. Alaric's wife, Willow, had insisted on Anna staying at the hotel but Anna was determined to be apart of the unveiling of the boat, a decision that never sat right with me. Her family's involvement with things have always been... complicated. I can't shake the feeling that there is more at play here than any of us realized.

"Harry." The king grasps my attention, pulling me to the side once one of his conversations is dismissed. "This isn't the unveiling of an old boat like I thought, get Anna out. Leave my service and take her to the hotel." The King instructs, catching me off guard for a moment.

I can only imagine that the King has picked up on the unsettling nature of the men he's engaging with. Their intentions seem far from honourable. Their eyes are sharp, and predatory, scanning each of us with a calculated intensity. No government officials or royals have ever scrutinized me so intently, searching for any concealed weapon. The way their gazes linger, cold and assessing, sends a chill down my spine. I've never been under the watchful eyes of so many at once, their silent coordination a clear sign of something amiss. Things don't add up; they haven't added up from the start. The pieces of this puzzle form a dark picture, one that spells danger for all of us.

I waste no time following my orders. I discreetly leave the king and radio into Matthew, attempting to explain the orders in code in case anyone is listening to me and observing me.

I weave in and out of areas of the boat, thanking god for my photographic memory, this ship is a maze in itself.

I come across Oliver guarding Anastasia and stand next to him. "Go to Matthew, but don't speak to anyone. Do you understand?" I say in a low voice. He looks at me with confusion, wanting an explanation. However, I don't have time to explain. "Go," I repeat firmly. If he can't follow my instructions, he shouldn't be part of our travel team. I despise travelling and don't need anyone questioning my authority. Matthew and I have a system, and I need Oliver to learn it.

Oliver walks away, leaving me with Anna who's talking to three officials. I take a deep breath and try to think of a way to get her away from them. "I'm sorry to interrupt," I say with a smile, even though the men are staring at me like I'm interrupting a presidential speech. "I know you don't handle boats well. How are you feeling?"

Anna looks confused but smiles slightly. "Not the best," she replies playing into my plan.

"Princess, would you like to get some fresh air?" I suggest, careful not to reveal that she's leaving the boat. I don't trust anyone on this boat, and I don't think Anna's father should have put us in this position.

Anna nods and excuses herself from the officials.

Without a word, I begin to escort Anna through the boat. I don't say a word and she continues to walk beside me, allowing me to lead the way. This will be the last time I work on a damn boat that has too many areas to keep track of. I can't watch my back and lead her to an exit at the same time. I need a damn map. We are stopped by two men, one of them being the one who was searching for my pistol. "Princess Anastasia, I haven't had a chance to talk to you," he grins ear to ear, "I hear you'll be taking over the monarchy soon, or is it all rumour?"

Anastasia politely smiles and shakes her head, "That's not up to me to decide. It was nice seeing you."

"Where are you going?" He questions, blocking us from walking further.

Nosy. I see. I don't like him. There's something about him that is far from charming. Before Anastasia can answer, I begin to speak. "She needs some air."

"I'll join you."

"No need to join, just a bit of motion sickness."

The man stares at me for a moment, testing my patience. "You can barely feel the boat move."

I clench my jaw with icy content, taking a breath and stopping myself from escalating matters and shoving him against the wall. One step closer and I might just have to put my hands on him. "She's sensitive," I respond, placing an arm around her, forcing my way between the two men and leading her away.

I finally make it to the outside and onto the deck of the boat, relieved more than ever.

I tenderly tug on Anastasia, stopping her from walking. I can't turn around to see if we are being watched, it would be too obvious. Anna turns to gaze at me, "Anna, look discreetly over to my left, is anyone watching?"

"Yes."

"Fuck," I mutter before letting out a heavy sigh. "One person?"

"Yes."

I tilt my head to my left, "Eagle, I'm being watched. Be Careful. Send me Eaglet." I radio into Matthew in code. If we are being watched, we are being listened to as well. It's a no-brainer.

It's proving difficult to get Anastasia and her father off this boat without alerting anyone. Any hint that we know what's happening could make things worse. We need to be subtle and prompt.

"Harry, what's going on?" Anastasia asks. "I've had the same man following me for the last ten minutes."

I signal for her to be quiet while I listen to Matthew. "I can't hear you, I have interference," I tell him. I look around for any watchers. "Eagle, come in?"

Matthew responds, but his message is garbled like an old radio. The static hurts my ears and I take out my earpiece. Something's not right.

I check my pockets and pat myself down, looking for anything unusual in my suit jacket. I don't find anything. Anastasia watches me, her hand resting on the railing. "Are you okay?" I ask.

"I'm fine," she says. "You're making me anxious here."

I slide my jacket back up my arm and I step forward, closing the space between Anastasia and me. "Don't say a word, I'm just checking something," I whisper in her ear as softly as I possibly can, gently pressing my hands behind her, feeling every inch of her back— nothing. There's nothing on her back. I carefully slip my hand into her jacket pocket, grasping the small circular device between my fingers.

I discreetly remove the small device from her pocket and I lean over her to drop it into the water. "You were bugged," I inform her, not too pleased with how the events of the day are taking place. Oliver shouldn't have let anyone close enough to her for her to be bugged. "I'm trying to get you off the boat. This was meant to be some unveiling of an old ship, but it has turned into... how do I put this..." I begin, unsure of how to explain to her that some shady things are happening, "Just... just know I need to get you off the boat, okay?" I mutter, glancing around in an attempt to find something to help me figure out what the hell I'm meant to do.

There's a reason why I sought to tell the King being on a boat with foreign leaders and God knows who was a dangerous idea, but he refused to listen to me.

Sometimes I wonder why I stay in my position of job, life would be simpler if I quit my job. I could find something less bothersome. Special intelligence is only riveting when the king listens or when Anastasia isn't in harm's way.

"Protocol?" She whispers, her voice breaking as her eyes grow wide, the sensation of danger settling in.

I nod my head, "Don't panic, I'll think of something."

"How? We're stuck on a boat and—" She's spiralling, I can see it in her eyes that she's beginning to panic and mentally think of scenarios that could occur.

This is the part I loathe.

"Anna, darling," I kindly cut off her, "Let me do my job and worry, just trust me. I'm trained for this." I remind her of my duty, at the moment I'm not her husband, I'm her bodyguard who has her life in his hands. I'm the one who is trained to take a bullet for her, I do it because it's my job, but also because I'm madly in love with her.

"Trained to get me off a boat in the middle of a volcano?" Anastasia questions, pointing out the location of the boat.

"Actually, a water-filled caldera is what it's called." I correct her, not knowing how to handle the situation besides using a sense of humour.

"Harry."

I heavily sigh and my eyes catch a glimpse of the distance between the boat and the shoreline, "You can swim, right?"

"Yes?"

"You might have to." I flick my head towards the water, causing Anastasia to stare at me.

"This isn't funny."

She's going to kill me. But if it comes down to it, I need to know that she understands that she might have to take the plunge.

"It's the last resort, but uh... it might have to happen," I respond, "I'll get you off, one way or another."

"Why can't we just keep the peace and stay until we're meant to get off?"

"Because this doesn't seem like a peaceful ending, just stay with me, okay?"

"What do these people want?"

"Fuck, I don't know. I don't have many answers. Come with me." I mutter, beginning to get frustrated, but not with her. I'm frustrated that we are put in this situation, I'm frustrated that the king ignored the red flags that Matthew and I expressed, I'm frustrated that because of the King's ignorance and determination, we are in a mess that I'm not sure we can get everyone out of.

The people on this boat are not here for a grand tour of an old navy boat that has come back to life, this isn't a celebration or a coming of a union, this is a nightmare, a nightmare that could have been prevented.

I should have listened to my instincts and told Anna to stay at the hotel, I should have done a thorough background check on each member, but the King had me occupied running errands with him and meeting with other leaders. He managed to direct my attention away from where it needed to be, he created his destiny with this mess and he'll have to reap what he has sowed.

I follow the edge of the railing, my pulse quickening with each step, until Oliver finally comes into view, stepping out of one of the doors. Anna and I make our way towards him, urgency fueling my every move. There's no time to waste on pleasantries or explanations.

"Get her off the fucking boat," I snap, my voice low but fierce as I gesture towards Anna.

Oliver's eyes widen in alarm as he shakes his head. "I can't. There's no way off. We're all being watched. The next tender isn't for another hour," he responds, his voice tinged with desperation. He looks to me for answers, answers I don't have. Part of me feels bad for him—this is his first trip, his first attempt at being part of our team, and he's been thrown into this monstrosity.

"Get her off the boat or keep her safe for an hour," I bark, my eyes boring into his. "Do whatever it takes."

"How?" Oliver asks, panic creeping into his voice.

"Get creative," I retort, my tone hardening. "I don't care if you go through the galley, hide her in a supply closet, or barricade yourselves in a cabin. Just keep her safe. Do you understand?"

"What's the galley?" Oliver questions.

"For Christ's sake," I shake my head, surely he isn't this dense. "Either get her off the boat or keep her safe for an hour. If anything happens to her, I will personally kill you, got it?"

Oliver nods, the gravity of the situation sinking in.

I turn towards Anastasia and I lean closer to her, "I love you, take my jacket, check the inside breast pocket." I whisper in her ear before I slide my jacket down my arms. Anastasia takes her jacket off and I take her jacket and give her a small smile before I throw it overboard.

She stares at me with the eyes of daggers, and as much as I wish I could laugh, now is not the time to let my guard down. There was already one bug in her jacket, there could be more. I slide my jacket up her arms while she huffs, a clear indication that she is far from pleased with me. Right now, pleasing her isn't a part of my job description, she will have to get over it.

I kiss her on the cheek before I look towards Oliver, "I'm serious if anything happens to her—"

"I get it, you'll kill me," Oliver nods his head.

Although I am hesitant to leave her with Oliver, I have given her enough advice on how to stay safe over the years. Hopefully, she will remember my guidance if anything goes wrong. All I can do now is hope for the best.  I watch as they disappear into the interior of the boat, praying that Oliver can pull this off. My gut twists with worry, but I push it aside. I need to focus on the next steps, on keeping the rest of us alive.

I head towards the men who have been keeping an eye on us. As I ascend the stairs, I ignore their stares and keep moving forward. There are more important matters at hand.

I explore the different passageways of the ship in search of Matthew and the King. Unfortunately, I am unable to contact them through the radio, and there is no cell service available for me to track their phones. My only option is to rely on my memory of the ship's layout.

"Where's the princess?" I'm distracted from my search and I stop in my tracks. I turn around to face the same man who was trying to look for my concealed pistol.

"Why?"

"She's meant to be in a meeting."

"She's unwell and won't be attending the meeting," I respond with a heavy lie.

"Where is she?" He's determined to get his hands on her from the sounds of things, and I'm not okay with it.

I lift my shoulders into a shrug, "Don't know, but do you know where the King is? I assume his meeting is where hers is meant to be as well?" I'm somewhat being a smartass. There's no way in hell anyone is going to tell me where the king is, everyone is shady. The man stares at me in an attempt to assert dominance.

I heavily sigh and reach behind my hip where my pistol is. I use my left arm to push the man against the wall before my right-hand holds the barrel of my pistol to his neck. "Tell me where the king is and don't cat and mouse me. I'm not in the mood."

The man gulps, his life perhaps flashing before his eyes as he begins to stutter, "I-I—"

"Spit it out. Where are they?" I demand.

"Upper deck near the upper deck escape hatch, there's a room, they're there."

With my pistol in position against his skin, I use my other hand to promptly search him, finding his pistol and shoving it where I keep mine when it isn't in my hand.

"Lead the way." I instruct, pulling him away from the side of the wall and pushing him in front of me, keeping the gun to his back, "Don't try any funny business." I forewarn, pushing him to start leading to where I need to go.

*** Later that day ***

As I reach the shore, I cough out the seawater I had inhaled during the swim. I push myself a little further before collapsing onto the sand, gasping for air. Beside me, Matthew and the King are also coughing out salty water. My lungs feel like they're on fire from the salt and my body aches from the long swim and the cold Aegean sea.

After taking a few deep breaths, I ask, "Is everyone okay?" Through my coughing, the King helps me up to my feet.

"Ye' a fuckin' asshole," The King murmurs.

I glance at him, moving my arm into an L formation and holding it with my other hand, "I guess that is code for thank you," I respond, trying not to lean on the King as we both move away from the water but I can't help it.

All three of us sit on the sand and take a moment to fully catch our breath back and rest what little strength we have left from fighting the currents. We sit in silence, nothing but the crashing of the waves echoing between us. I stare out into the water, keeping an eye on the navy ship we left behind, all we can see of it is the lights of the boat. We left the vessel at dusk and at nightfall, we have made it.

With heavy breaths, I think about the events that have transpired.

I stared at the king as he scowled at me, not wanting to take my instructions for the hundredth time since we landed here in Greece. "Sir, if you do not jump, they will kill all three of us, fucking jump." I raised my voice towards the King who was contemplating whether jumping was the best option. At that point, it was the only option.

When I was led to the king and Matthew, I encountered Matthew being held at gunpoint and the King tied up. I don't know what led the two of them to that point, but I do know that everyone on this boat is against us. No amount of training can prepare you for the moment you have to fire your pistol to save not just the King but also the head of security. No amount of training prepares you for the sight I walked into and created. Untying the king was easy, but getting all of us out and away from the other members of the boat, not so much. I heard a gunshot and my eyes widened, but none of us was hit, the shot came from another area of the boat. I held my breath for a moment, hoping and praying that Anastasia managed to get off the boat. "Get up, let's go!" I commanded, hauling the King to his feet and shooting a glare towards Matthew, requiring his direction. From that moment, it is mostly a blur. Everything happened quickly. My prior years have trained me for this but it's still hard.

I glanced around, taking note that nobody had yet to follow us to the point in the boat where we were at, but it was only a matter of time before we were discovered. "Sir, you have to jump, we need to get off," I commanded again, driving him closer to the edge.

A gunshot fired and for a split second, my world froze, my breath hitched in my throat and I looked behind me. I disregarded the King and pushed him into the water, giving him no option. It was and still is my job to take a bullet for him and keep him safe, no matter what it takes.

***

"They were going to kill us, weren't they?" The King questions, taking me from my thoughts and breaking the silence between us, the realisation of what happened finally settling in with him.

I nod my head, "Where is Anna?" I breathe out, suddenly becoming alert to the fact I have no earthly idea of where she is.

The King's punch causes excruciating pain, and he demands answers from me. "You were responsible for her, so don't even think about denying knowledge of her whereabouts."

I grimace and close my eyes, gasping for air as if I've been winded. "Matthew," I manage to cough out, "Where is Anna?" The King brushes off my discomfort and examines my shoulder while Matthew moves closer. "I didn't hit you that hard," the King dismisses, unbuttoning my shirt to inspect the damage. Odd.

"Harry, how the fuck did you swim?" Alaric questions with wide eyes.

I shake my head, not concerned about myself, I did my job, I got us all to safety. "Find your daughter, I left her with Oliver." She wasn't on my service, I did my job as security. "Everything is wet, we can't call," I mutter, using my hand in an attempt to reach into my pocket, unfortunately realising that there is no way my phone or radio will work.

"Harry, she is fine. She got off," Matthew informs me while the King runs his finger over my collarbone, causing me to flinch once he reaches the corner of my shoulder.

I am relieved that she is safe. I would never forgive myself if I had left her on the boat in a dangerous situation while following Matthew and the King to shore. I should have taken a moment to think and double-check before leaving. I am usually diligent about double-checking, but I failed this time. I failed on many levels.

"What have you done?" I ask the King, seeking answers despite the throbbing pain I have been experiencing since the boat ride.

The King looks at me and hesitates for a moment, his expression filled with icy contempt. He wants to lie, but cannot come up with anything plausible. "Do not lie to me," I say with a heavy breath, despite knowing that I am overstepping my job description. If I can dodge bullets and swim for my life, I can ask for an explanation of what is happening.

The King nods his head in defeat and bows it. "Part of this started in 1874... families are at feud" ... "There's more to the story I just can't tell you. I've done some questionable things and I can't get away from them. Mainly, my father and my family did questionable things. I was forced into horrible things I can't take back."

"Does this have anything to do with Pippa referencing how the lineage to the crown has been altered?" Matthew questions.

Alaric nods his head with a sense of deep regret.

I grow withdrawn for a moment, trying to figure out what this means. "No," I breathe out, putting the pieces together. "It's a real-life Game of Thrones," I shake my head.

I've heard and read stories where two families have fought for the crown over the centuries but I thought it was all bullshit stories to keep people talking. It's true. But, who is currently fighting for the crown?

"So, they, an unknown family or person, orchestrated all of this?" I ask, needing to understand things. I don't fully believe it.

The King nods his head, "Possibly— A life for the disappearance of the crown that they believe was and still is, rightfully theirs. But Greece also has a vengeance against me. I thought this unravelling of the boat would put it behind us and start the ties over." The king informs us, causing me to shake my head with disapproval.

"Do you have something to do with the Greek monarchy falling in the 70's?" I question, remembering Anna explaining parts of the history on the plane. However, she didn't mention the family being a reason for the Greek monarchy failing.

The King heavily sighs before nodding his head, "Again, it was the family feud, not me."

"Sounds like your family are lousy royals."

"There was a pact, but it was revealed that my family betrayed the pact to Greece, also betraying their kingdom in the past, leading to the downfall of the previous monarch." ... "In turn, I guess they never forgave us, and set me up." ... "Greece has always preferred the other family to rule. Guess I am still not good enough."

"Who is the other family?" I curiously question.

Alaric grows withdrawn, his eyes staring off into the abyss. "You could say a close companion or someone in the inner circle."

Of course, he gives me a cryptic answer. My life would be easier if I had a straightforward answer to the following questions.

Who is the other family?

Who is wanting to off the love of my life?

Can Anna manage to handle this Game of thrones?

"This sounds like something your brother would orchestrate," I point out, believing Syrus to be a snake who is waiting for the right time to strike.

Alaric shakes his head, "I doubt it, if he were to do something, he would do it in London and wipe all of us, including my wife."

"All of this for a fucking crown?" I mutter.

"Harry!" Matthew scolds.

"It's fine," The King sighs, "A lot of people have threatened to kill the last reigning monarch."

I shake my head, not wanting to hear anything further, I have had enough for one day, "I'm ready to go to a hotel, it is fucking cold," I mutter, forcing myself to my feet. I've heard enough.

"Mate, we need to get you to a hospital."

"I'm not going to a hospital, I want to go to the hotel. We need to get the fuck out of this place. It is safest for all of us to be anywhere but here."

"Let me take care of that, Harry, we need to—" Matthew begins but I cut him off.

I shake my head, they don't understand that going to a hospital is not the safest thing for any of us. "I'm not going to a hospital here. If they catch any of us at the hospital, it is game over, that will be the first place they look, expecting the King to have been shot." I inform them both, Matthew suddenly nodding his head. He had a lapse of judgment, which is okay, but I can't allow the others to be compromised for something as miniscule as this. "You have to take the family and change their hotel. We can't fly right now, they will have the airports being watched and the cars being flagged." ... "We will have to walk to the hotel, move Willow and Anna, and then come up with a plan to get back home without issues."

"Why can't we take a private plane the way we came here?" the King questions.

"Because your family did such a great job at keeping allies, that they currently hate us and have likely tracked all our modes of transportation. This was calculated, this was done for revenge, at this point, we have to act as if every move we make is being watched."

"He's right," Matthew agrees, "We will have to come up with a new plan once we get to a new location."

♔♔♔ ♔♔♔

We thought that it was best that we split, Matthew and Alaric took one route and I took another route by myself. I want to find out who the rival family is and what needs to be done to fix all the issues that have been created. Surely, there is some sort of revival and something that can simmer all the issues. Maybe it is wishful thinking.

While Anna sits in the other room of the suite, I pick up the phone and dial a number I have dialed many times before when things have gone south, a number that I thought I was done having to dial.

"It's me," I begin the moment I hear breathing on the other end of the phone, "Styles 2832, my phone is waterlogged," I inform the other end of the phone, waiting for a response.

"I assume you will need another phone?" Ophelia questions, "Your location dropped off in the middle of the Mediterranean." She still watches my location, nice.

"Yes," I respond, "I'm moving to a small island until we can get out safely. I need a new phone since I'm sure a flag was raised when my location stopped being trackable."

Ophelia chuckles softly. "I'll have a new phone waiting for you. I assume you're calling from the hotel phone?"

"Well, I'm clearly not calling from my phone, now am I?" I retort a hint of sarcasm in my voice.

I hear her sigh on the other end of the phone, "It's always a pleasure hearing from you."

"I doubt it," I respond with a smirk across my lips, "I hope to not have to contact you again any time soon," I happily announce.

"Likewise," Ophelia mutters, "Do you need anything else?"

I think for a moment, and heavily sigh. "Yes."

"I am going to take a wild guess, bank card? ID? Possibly a passport?"

I quietly chuckle to myself, "My passport is saved, I left it at the hotel."

"I should scold you for leaving it at the hotel."

"It was in a safe," I defend myself, "I am not that reckless. But yes, I need a new bank card, and I need one more very minor request."

"Mhm," Ophelia hums, "Your Father?"

"You know me well. He needs to call my sister, she is asking questions."

"I am aware," Ophelia responds, "I will handle it all. Give me an hour to have everything delivered." Ophelia informs me.

"I hope to not have to contact you again any time soon," I respond before hanging up the phone just as Anna leans on the doorframe.

I hope she doesn't ask questions. Who am I kidding, I know she will ask questions.

Anna's POV.

I creep into the bedroom of the hotel, cocking my head to the side as Harry locks eyes with me while on the phone to someone unknown, "I hope to not have to contact you again any time soon," his voice is filled with glee as he speaks before hanging up the phone.

I raise a brow, leaning on the doorframe, my arms crossed over my chest, "If you have a question," Harry begins, taking a breath, "Go ahead and ask it."

I nod my head, pushing off the frame and stepping closer to his seated position on the bed, "Who were you talking to?"

"Don't trust me?" He questions with a slight chuckle, "Ryan," Harry responds, "He is going to make sure a new phone is waiting for me so he can keep track of my location while we are out here."

I have some reason to not trust him or to feel he is misleading me, I am utterly curious to whom he could be speaking to over the phone instead of getting his shoulder looked at by a professional. "What are you going to do about your shoulder?" I question, taking note of the dark purple bruising that only appears to be darkening and the swelling that is getting worse. It looks extremely painful, but he seems to have no desire to fix it right now.

"What about it? It's broken, darling."

"You're so nonchalant about it," I point out, unsure of how he is handling the pain and the events of today nonchalantly. It is as if it doesn't phase him.

Harry bobs his head in a nod, standing to his feet and stepping towards me. He takes the time to place a kiss to my forehead, "I have bigger things to worry about, like getting you to the island. Once I am there, the travelling team of doctors will assess me. Until then, I will deal with the pain," he responds. "Don't worry, I have had worse happen," he assures me.

I raise a brow, "Such as?" I curiously ask.

Harry allows a chuckle to escape his pink lips, "That's a story for another day, come on," he flicks his head to the bed. "Let's relax until the car is ready to take us to the ferry."

"Oh, great. Another boat," I groan, "Will this one be as interesting as the last?"

"I hope not," he responds, stepping around me and walking towards the door, his unphased arm reaching for my suitcase and lifting the handle, "I am sure you would prefer something a little bit more comfortable for our travels," he comments, rolling the suitcase closer to me, looking me up and down as I stand in my dress.

***

Upon taking some time to unwind and relax, putting the days events to the side, I put my book down and make my way towards the door as three knocks sound against the oak wood. I open the door to see a small gold cart outside the door.

"You didn't scold me for not checking who it was," I raise a brow as I push the small cart into the hotel room.

The gold cart catches the light of the hotel room, its surface gleaming with a warm, polished sheen that hints at its luxurious quality. Intricate filigree patterns adorn the edges, adding an elegant touch to its design.

Upon the cart rests an array of carefully arranged items, each placed with precision and care. Atop the cart, delicate pink and lilac peonies add a splash of colour, their soft petals gently brushing against the surface. Nestled beside the flowers is a bottle of whiskey, its amber contents catching the light and casting a warm glow. The items are so carefully arranged that it makes me want to open the amber wiskey and take a swig, it looks appealing and enticing.

"I am aware of what came to the door," Harry responds quietly, his lips pursing into a small grin seeing a bottle of whiskey on the cart next to a silver platter.

"This is an odd request from room service," I note slightly confused.

Inside the silver platter, an iPhone box sits. Next to it, a brown wallet, identical to Harry's usual one, lies waiting, its rich leather exuding a sense of timeless sophistication.

Finally, a white note, it's paper crisp and pristine, rests among the items. The handwriting upon it is exquisite, each stroke flowing gracefully into the next, conveying a sense of artistry and refinement. It is the most beautiful cursive writing I have ever seen. I would never have expected Ryan to be the type to go out of his way to add all of this intricacy.

"Handle with care: These treasures aren't fans of impromptu swimming lessons. Let's keep them dry, shall we? No more waterlog dramas!" I read the note to Harry, chuckling to myself. At least 'Ryan' has a sense of humour.