Watching Vincent’s figure disappear, Ashlyn murmured softly to herself, “Only Vincent’s presence can truly ensure her safety.” The uncertainties of what Katelyn might face at the palace were unknown to anyone.

Meanwhile, as Katelyn arrived at the hotel entrance, she saw Barry’s car waiting there. She gave it a brief look and climbed in without a moment’s hesitation. As soon as the car door shut, they drove swiftly toward the palace.

One hour later, when Katelyn stepped out of the vehicle, she found herself on the palace grounds. Barry led her toward the innermost part of the reception room.

Inside the room, the reception area was luxuriously adorned, boasting elegantly carved gemstone walls and a glossy floor that mirrored the figures above.

Katelyn, dressed in a crisp white suit with her hair neatly pulled back, exuded a sense of sharp professionalism.

At the far end of the room, near a large stained-glass window, sat the King. He was poised at a long table, a warm smile gracing his face as Katelyn approached.

“Miss Bailey, it has been some time.”

Katelyn approached and gave a respectful bow, responding, “Your Majesty, it’s a pleasure to see you again.”

After exchanging pleasantries, the King motioned with his hand. “Miss Bailey, please take a seat.”

Katelyn promptly took her place across from the King without any hesitation.

This wasn’t their first encounter, but every meeting saw Katelyn maintaining her poise and confidence, displaying no hint of subservience, which always piqued the King’s interest.

His expression unchanging, the King savored a sip of coffee, then set down his cup and said to Katelyn, “The coffee from your country is amazing.”

Katelyn offered a slight smile. “If it pleases you, Your Majesty, next time I’ll send you some top-quality coffee. It has a superior flavor and a delightful aftertaste.”

The King gave a gentle shake of his head, saying, “There’s no need for that. I can acquire any coffee I wish. However, it might not be so simple for others to share in my coffee.”

Katelyn clearly grasped the underlying message of his words. Yet, her smile remained unchanged as she gracefully lifted her coffee cup, took a sip, and said softly, “While coffee is plentiful, finding the perfect coffee that suits one’s taste is rare. Therefore, we must cherish and savor each cup, to honor its worth.”

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The King’s hand faltered momentarily as he held his cup. He understood Katelyn’s implications. Leaning back, he studied her and said in a low tone, “You are quite bold to speak thus in my presence. Does it not concern you that you may not exit the palace today?” There was already a subtle threat in his words.

Nevertheless, Katelyn maintained her smile and met the King’s gaze directly, responding, “I am indeed afraid. In fact, I came here prepared for the worst. Yet, upon meeting you today, Your Majesty, my fears have dissipated.”

Her response piqued his interest. Most would have been overwhelmed by fear, but Katelyn stood apart.

With a touch of curiosity, the King asked, “Why? What makes you feel so assured?”

If it were anyone else, they might have been paralyzed with fear.

Katelyn gently caressed her coffee cup and answered softly, “I’m not sure. Perhaps it’s because I’ve detected no hostility from you, Your Majesty.”

The King paused for a moment.

Then he laughed softly. “Your frankness is refreshing.”

Suddenly, the King rose from his seat…

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