If only. “Easier said than done,” she murmured.

“It will be an adjustment. Although it would be best if they did not roller-skate down the hallways.”

“I’ll make sure of that.”

“Good. You will want to learn about the palace. There is much interesting history here. Perhaps you and the girls should take one of the daily tours.”

She stared at him. “Tours? People come here and take tours?”

“Only of the public rooms. The private quarters are off-limits. There are security people on duty. You are safe here.”

She wasn’t worried about being safe. It was the idea of living somewhere grand enough to have tours that made her mouth go dry.

“What does your family think of this?” she asked. “Will anyone be angry?”

He seemed to grow taller. “I am Prince As’ad of El Deharia. No one questions my actions.”

“Not even the king?” she asked.

“My father will be pleased to see me settling down. He is anxious for his sons to start a family.”

Kayleen had a feeling adopting three American sisters wasn’t exactly what King Mukhtar had in mind.

“You said you have brothers,” she said.

“I am one of six,” he said. “They are in and out of the palace. Kateb lives in the desert, but the others keep rooms here.”

Six princes, one princess, one king and her. What was wrong with this picture?

“You will be fine,” he said.

“Would you stop knowing what I’m thinking? It’s not fair.”

He shrugged. “I am gifted. It can’t be helped.”

“Apparently not.” He also seemed to have no problems with his ego. What would it be like to grow up so confident, so sure about everything, including his place in the world?

“Kayleen, you are here because of me,” he said, his voice low and mesmerizing. “My name is all the protection you require. It can be used as a shield or a weapon, however you prefer.”

“I can’t imagine using it as either,” she admitted.