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A beep sounded, followed by an automated voice. “Security armed.”
Chad directed them through the garage. “My friends thought they’d need all this garage space, even though their builder told them there are no vehicles permitted in Wengen. Looking to the future, they said.” He laughed. “This way.”
Malik had to release his hold on Sophie as they all walked up a few steps and into a spacious open area with a kitchen Malik imagined even a master chef like Sophie could be happy in, a large gathering area with couches, side tables, a massive dining table with twenty chairs, a fireplace along one wall, and the rest of the walls boasting windows that overlooked the twinkling lights of the valley below.
“All the bedrooms are upstairs,” Chad explained. “The basement is a workout facility, home theater, game room, and indoor pool.”
“It’s a lovely home,” Sophie said.
“It is. Not the Augustine castle, but it’ll do in a pinch.” Chad spread his hands and grinned. Suddenly he got serious. “Lieutenant, the basement please. Captain, the upstairs.”
The two men nodded and strode to the stairs off the entry, each holding a pistol out.
Chad held up a finger to the rest of them. “The cameras show the home is secure, but you can never be too safe. Please wait here while I check the main level.”
Malik nodded.
As the main level was mostly open besides a laundry room, butcher’s pantry, the entry, an office, and some closets, Chad returned quickly.
They all waited quietly for the other royal guards. Malik was itching to hear Sophie’s story and somehow help her. His neck tingled and he had an odd premonition that whatever she was going to tell them held answers for him and his pain of the last six years.
Levi strode into the main room from what Malik assumed was the foyer and stairs and nodded to Chad. “All clear.”
Mason appeared a few moments later and repeated, “All clear.”
“Thank you. The security system is good, but we don’t have perimeter sensors or cameras from every angle. My friend Faith sent me the link to the security and the camera angles currently set up in the main living areas, garage, and three exterior views. I’ll forward it on to each of you.”
“I don’t like that sir,” Mason said “Basic security cameras aren’t nearly enough.”
“I agree, my friend, but if one of you could monitor the exterior and one the interior, I’ll spell off with you throughout the night and we’ll see what we’re dealing with come morning. Lieutenant General Cordon could fly us more equipment and men if necessary. All right?”
“Yes, sir,” Levi said.
Mason nodded.
“I’ll take exterior watch first,” Levi offered.
“Thank you, Captain.”
Levi peeled off while Mason awaited more instruction.
“Sophie, would you like to lay Sunny down in one of the bedrooms and then we can discuss what’s happening and hopefully formulate a plan?”
“Mum, Dad,” Sophie said, her dark eyes determined. “Could Sunny rest in your suite and will you both stay with her?” She looked to Chad. “Can Lieutenant Mason stand outside their door?”
“Of course,” Chad said.
“Sophie.” Her dad studied her. “You know we’re always happy to watch over our girl, but I would like to know who’s threatening her, and you.”
“I promise I will fill you in about everything I can,” she said softly, “But right now, Major Chad and Prince Malik are the ones who need this information, and they can help me determine what to do with it. Some of it regards the royal family and some of it I’d like to discuss privately with you and Mum.”
Her dad obviously didn’t like being shut out, but he nodded. “I understand.”
Sophie walked toward the stairs. Malik stepped forward, but Chad and Mason followed her.
“We’ll be right back,” Chad said, smoothly blocking Malik’s chance to escort Sophie.
Malik nodded, not wanting to throw a fit about something inconsequential, but it was obvious Chad was pursuing Sophie. He’d never heard of or witnessed a woman who could resist Chad’s charm.
