Page 78 of Prince Material
I plead the fifth. That’s the right amendment, yes? I’ve been practicing my American rights.
I muffled a snort.
“Mr. Ritchey, perhaps you’d like to share what’s so amusing about bacterial load in treatment facilities?”
Professor Dunant’s voice cut through my amusement. This time, several students turned to look at me, and I sank lower in my seat.
“Sorry, Professor,” I mumbled, forcing myself to focus on my notes.
The rest of class passed in a blur of technical terms and diagrams, though I managed to keep my mind from wandering too obviously. When we were finally dismissed, I packed up quickly, eager to get back to our room. Floris had a later class today, and I wanted to finish some reading before he returned and inevitably distracted me with his presence.
As soon as I stepped outside, someone yelled, “There he is!”
I blinked, then froze to the spot as photographers came running, their cameras and cell phones clicking away. A microphone was shoved into my face. “Is it true you’re dating Prince Floris from The Netherlands?”
Panic seized my chest as more reporters converged, their questions overlapping in a cacophony of demands.
“How long have you been together?”
“Did you know he was a prince when you met?”
“What does your family think about the relationship?”
The training with Margriet kicked in through my rising anxiety.Don’t engage with rude questions. You can always say “No comment”. Never accept the premise of a hostile question.
“No comment,” I managed. My hands were shaking as I clutched my backpack straps.
“Is it true you’re only dating him for his money?”
That one stung, but I kept my face neutral, remembering Margriet’s warnings about showing reaction.Just keep walking. Don’t engage.
Suddenly, a tall, blond guy popped up next to me. “Members of the press, keep your distance, please,” he called out to the press, putting his arm at an angle to physically shield me. They backed off a little, giving me enough space to keep walking. He continued to shield me, guiding my steps when I stumbled.
I’d never been more grateful in my life for someone stepping in to help me, but who was he? He was clearly American, judging by his accent, but too old to be a student. Once we were inside Smelter Hall, I came to a stop, shaking from the experience.
“Are you alright?” the stranger asked, his professional demeanor softening with genuine concern.
I nodded, though my hands were still trembling. “Thank you for…” I gestured vaguely at the door, beyond which I could still hear voices and camera shutters. “Who are you?”
“Nathan DeVos. I’m part of your security detail.” He showed me an ID card that looked official. “Prince Floris hired us to keep an eye on things, especially you.”
“He what?” I blinked, trying to process this information. “When did he…?”
“After Christmas. He was concerned the press might find you before you were ready.” Nathan’s expression was sympathetic. “Looks like he was right to worry.”
Warmth bloomed in my chest as I realized what this meant. Floris had anticipated this, had taken steps to protect me without making me feel smothered or controlled. He’d known I’d need help but had arranged it quietly, letting me maintain my independence until it was necessary.
“Does he know?” I asked, pulling out my phone. “About the press being here?”
“He’s been notified. He’s on his way back now.” Nathan glanced at his watch. “Campus police has also been alerted. They’ll help keep the press off college grounds.”
Wow, Nathan was towering over me even more than Floris did. And the dude was ripped. Strong arms, big chest, and a tight stomach that had to be a six-pack under his black shirt. He was wearing cargo pants and what looked to be combat boots. This was definitely a guy you wanted to be on your side.
My phone buzzed with an incoming call from Floris.
“Hey,” I answered, my voice shakier than I’d like.
“Lieverd.” The familiar endearment made my chest tight. “Are you okay? Nathan said they ambushed you outside class.”
