She passed empty rooms and a lot of closed and curtained windows. One set of doors stood open. She caught a glimpse of three girls cuddling on the sofa with a man who looked a little like Qadir.

A brother, she figured. From what she remembered reading, the king had several sons. No daughters. One wouldn’t want a mere woman getting in the way, she thought with a grin. What would it be like to grow up here? Rich and pampered, being given ponies from the age of three. It must be-

“Qadir, I expect more,” a gruff voice said in the darkness.

Maggie skidded to a halt so quickly, she nearly slid out of her sandals.

“In time,” Qadir said, his voice calm.

“How much time? As’ad is engaged. He will be married in a few weeks. You need to settle down, as well. How is it possible I have so many sons and no grandchildren?”

Maggie knew the smartest thing would be to turn around and head back to her room. It’s what she meant to do…except she couldn’t help wanting to listen. She’d never heard a king speak to a prince before. She couldn’t believe they were arguing, just like a regular family.

She slipped behind a large pole and did her best to stay completely silent as Qadir said, “As’ad brings you three daughters. That should be enough for a start.”

“You are not taking this seriously. With all the women you have been with, you should have found at least one you’re willing to marry.”

“Sorry. No.”

“It’s that girl,” the king murmured. “From before. She’s the reason.”

“She has nothing to do with this.”

Woman? What woman? Maggie made a mental note to get on the computer and check out Qadir’s past.

“If you cannot find a bride on your own, I will find one for you,” the king said. “You will do your duty.”

There was the sound of footsteps, then a door closed. Maggie stayed in place, not sure if both men had left.

She breathed as quietly as she could and was about to go back the way she’d come when she heard Qadir say, “You can come out now. He’s gone.”