The next few days passed by much the same as the others, only three more girls were booted from the competition; one for selling stories to the press and two who just weren't Zed's type but it did start to make me doubt what his type was. It also seemed somewhat strange that the ones that weren't his 'type' were a year older, just like Phoenix had been. Was that a coincidence or was I over-thinking things? I assumed the latter until I overheard a conversation on my way to the music room that night. I paused in the doorway at the sound of the voices as the guards watched me with wary looks.

'Why can't I just use-' Zed was saying before his oldest brother interrupted.

'You know the agreement. You signed the contract.' Trace's voice was cold and harsh and it made me flinch.

'But if I could use it then I'd know she was really here.'

What did that mean? I reached for the handle of the door but the guard blocked my path.

'I think it's time you left, Lady Sky.' He said in a lowered voice. I glanced at him and then the door as I walked away, trying to work out what the overheard conversation had meant.

Our Spanish and French lessons were rounded up the following week, as were our etiquette classes and it was time for the final ten of us to move onto the next part of the competition.

'Congratulations on making it half-way through the competition.' Lady Evelyn said as she paced the room in front of us. 'One of you here may yet win the heart of Prince Zed and become a princess.' Some of the more arrogant girls, Amelie included, flicked their hair and smiled at the girls in their friendship group. I didn't miss Tina's eye roll. 'Your schedule from this point onwards will be very different. You have been paired up with one other girl in this room and you will be working alongside them on a charity project. Your new responsibilities will also include planning and entertaining events at the palace so although it looks like you have more free-time, you can think again.'

A few of the girls looked disappointed and I wondered why on earth they thought the contest would suddenly get easier. We were the final ten and even if we left now, we would be given a family home and there was the possibility of a Duke marrying us if we played our cards right. But with half of us left, the competition was going to grow fierce and the expectations had risen.

The door to the reception room opened and Prince Zed walked in as he was announced. We all moved into a curtsy as he strode across the room towards us in his usual black tunic and leather trousers. His hair was slightly dishevelled and it was clear he had been working.

'Your highness, you are looking well.' Lady Evelyn said with a curtsy and a smile.

'As are you, my lady.' He replied formally. He'd been joking around about her in our daily training sessions over the last couple of days so I had to resist the urge to smile or laugh, especially when he had told me about the pranks he and Prince Xavier had played on Lady Evelyn when they were young; changing the sugar to salt so she ended up drinking salty tea, hiding her glasses and other things horrible boys could do. He turned to us where we stood expectantly, waiting to hear the announcements. In his hand he held a folder and I knew they held all we needed to know. 'First things first ladies, I would like to congratulate you on getting this far. I feel like I am really beginning to know each and every one of you and I look forward to spending more time with you.' It felt like he was just talking to me at first but then I remembered how all of the other girls, who had all been on two dates now, had gushed about their wonderful dates too, especially now he was taking people out of the palace. 'Next… as I'm sure you are aware, my eighteenth birthday is next week and I will be holding a party at the palace with some of my friends. Of course each of you is invited and the best designers in the city will be bringing you their designs this evening for you to choose from… you are welcome to have whatever you desire.' A few girls gasped beside me but what I desired was right in front of me and unfortunately I was having to share him. 'And last of all, as you are the final ten, video cameras will be around more often watching your lives in the palace and some of our dates as well.' Although his face was straight, his hands tensed at his side and I knew he was uncomfortable. At least we still had our training sessions, I wanted to tell him but I couldn't say anything. 'I have an envelope with your information about your partner and the project you are going to be involved in over the coming weeks.' He stepped forward and handed each of us our envelope in turn. 'Happy birthday Tina.' He said, smiling at my friend before he left the room. 'Can we have breakfast tomorrow?'

'Of course, your highness.' She said.

'I'll pick you up at eight.' And then he was gone as jealousy swam in my stomach; that would be Tina's third date. The other girls didn't miss that. They all turned to look at me as I tried to keep my composure.

'Time to open your envelopes ladies. I will answer any questions you have about your projects but if there are none then you may be excused.' Lady Evelyn said, thankfully taking the attention away from me.

I opened the envelope carefully and pulled out the letter on the paper with the Royal coat of arms in the top right corner.

Lady Sky,

You will be working alongside Lady Amelie at a children's home for girls in Goldlyn. The home has planned a refurbishment and needs volunteers to help with painting and decorating and to ensure a smooth re-opening with some fundraising events.

Helping children less fortunate. It wasn't with music, sure, but it was a start. I met Amelie's eyes and she gave me a nod and small smile. Even though she was quite obsessed with her looks and quite competitive, things had been different since the terrorist attack and she'd been nothing but polite to me, even as the only remaining girl from a poor part of the country.

When Lady Evelyn had excused us, we all retired to the women's room, which was filled with a buffet and designers setting up racks of dresses for us to choose from, as well as shoe-boxes of shoes. Amelie, Lucie and Caitlyn raced towards the items of clothing but I sank down into a chair, tucking my letter into a plastic wallet in the blue file that Chloe had grabbed for me from somewhere. In calligraphy, she'd written my name and drawn a crown above it.

'What did you get?' Tina asked as she and Zoe sank down onto the sofa opposite me.

'Working at a children's home.' I told them with a smile.

'I don't know what's worse,' Zoe murmured. 'That or what we have… working with elderly at a community centre.' She wrinkled her nose. 'Don't they say never to work with children and old people?'

'It's animals.' Tina corrected. 'But I think it'll be fine.'

I resisted the urge to frown. Ms Creedy was nosy, sure, but she was lovely and she would have loved to have had somewhere local to socialise with other retired people. We were all she had and I knew she was lonely. I decided I would write her a letter later.

'So a date with the Prince tomorrow, huh?' Amelie said appearing by the sofa, a sequin black dress hooked around her finger. 'I wonder where he's taking you for breakfast.'

'I can't believe he wouldn't even take you out on your birthday.' Lucie replied but she paused when three cameramen walked into the room. I tensed, partially from Lucie's unpleasant comment but also due to being camera shy. I didn't want to be on camera but this was how it was going to be from now on. She grabbed Amelie's hand and pulled her back to the dresses as I tried to keep my best poker face.

'You'll have fun.' I told Tina with a reassuring smile. She gave me a nod and mouthed 'thanks' as she stood up.

'Come on, let's look at dresses before all the good ones are gone!'

Chloe and Abby hadn't been sure about my dress choice when I got back to my room with it that evening but I was; it wasn't too complex but it was pretty and it was classy. The other girls had gone for tulle and white and shades of red or dresses with a lot of glitter, sparkle and beading on them. Mine had none of that- a black body-hugging floor-length dress made from silk with off-the-shoulder sleeves and some silver embroidery around the waistline. I decided it was classic and could be sexy, especially with the very high (but surprisingly comfy) strappy black heels I'd chosen. But there were still six days until I'd be wearing that outfit so it was tucked to the back of my wardrobe for safe keeping.

I went out for a walk after dinner whilst some of the other girls retired to their room to watch another movie, one I had never heard of. I found myself sat on the damp grass in my usual spot, beside the lake as the setting sun continued to warm my face. I didn't hear the person approach until they sat down beside me.

'Lady Phoenix.' I said with a surprised smile as I looked across at her.

'Phoenix or Phee…' She said with a wrinkled nose. 'I can't stand the Lady part.'

I smiled at that. Like me, Phoenix was from a poor background and just like me, she was not used to luxuries like titles and silk sheets and having enough food. Phoenix's province, in fact, was poorer than mine and I glanced across at her in her posh gown and her freshly-styled hair. 'How did you survive?' I asked her, not needing to say anymore. She understood what I meant.

'Earning money where I could, rifling through bins, stealing bread and food…' She frowned as her cheeks flushed with something that could have been embarrassment? 'I'm not proud of my past.'

'Do the Royal family know?'

'Of course,' She nodded, 'I had to tell them before someone leaked something to the press. It was bound to happen.' She looked nervous and fiddled with her dress. 'So why are you out here and not watching the film?'

'I think I needed space to just…'

'Think?' She offered. 'I feel like that too sometimes. Overwhelmed but I suppose I'd better get used to it.'

'So you're staying here?' I probed, 'For good?' As Prince Yves' girlfriend, I wanted to add.

She looked away from me, unable to meet my gaze and when her eyes did return to mine, her eyes had darkened. 'Time will tell.' She got to her feet and brushed the grass off of her dress. 'Goodnight, Sky.' And then she disappeared into the darkness, rushing away as if perhaps she had said too much.

Punch, punch, kick, kick, punch and duck out of the way. Punch, punch, kick, kick, punch and duck out of the way. The rhythm was the same as I hit the boxing pads that Zed was holding. We'd already worked on the weights and now it was back to the same routine. My muscles didn't ache anymore and I was becoming stronger every day.

'You are doing great.' Zed said to me as I swung my leg up and kicked the hanging punch bag as hard as I could. I'd been embarrassed about breaking a sweat around him at first but now I didn't care. Sweat lined my forehead as I slammed my fists against the punchbag.

'Zed, why did you decide to train me?' I asked between punches as I bounced back and forth on the balls of my feet.

'Entertainment.' I knew he was smirking without looking and I tilted my head to look at him.

'Still think a girl can't fight?' I quizzed, keeping my eyes trained on my punching target.

Hands grabbed my waist and I swiftly knocked him to the floor, just as we had rehearsed many times before. But this time Zed grabbed me too and I landed on top of him as he smirked from under me. 'You can when you don't let your defences down.' He replied and I blushed as he held me over him, not letting me escape.

'Ahem.' A clear of a throat startled us both and I stumbled up, now redder with embarrassment as Prince Trace, heir to the throne, walked into the room.

'Your highness.' I managed to choke out, curtsying, not that I was being particularly ladylike; I was wearing a guard's training uniform, I was drenched in sweat and I'd just been found on top of a prince.

'You're up early, Lady Sky.' He commented as Zed got to his feet and moved to stand beside me.

I knew it was rude not to reply but I had no idea what to say. I couldn't think of an excuse and as for the truth… well that was complicated too.

'Lady Sky and I have been training daily.' Zed replied, his tone even. 'She wanted to learn how to fight should she ever be in harm's way again.'

Prince Trace's eyes widened in surprise. 'I can assure you that will not be happening again.'

'No it will not.' Zed's fists clenched and his voice was lower.

'Do the other contestants know about this?'

'No,' I shook my head. 'My maids do not even know.'

'You've not told anyone?' Prince Trace sounded surprised. 'Why?'

'It's not their business.' I replied. 'And I'm sure Lady Evelyn would not approve of me learning to fight when she is trying to make me into a lady.'

Prince Trace's mouth twitched in the corners as Zed led out a soft chuckle beside me. 'Oh she most certainly would not.' The heir to the throne replied. 'Princesses do not fight.'

'They just wait in towers to be rescued?' I tilted my head to the side. 'Perhaps sometimes it's the princess who kills the dragon and saves the prince.'

He tried to hide his smile but his eyes twinkled much like Zed's did. 'I like you,' he said with approval, 'you're quite the warrior princess.' He paused for a moment. 'Brother, you have a date in an hour that I suggest you get ready for.'

Zed looked at me and then back at his brother. He gave a small smile before heading out of the door, leaving me with the future King of the country.

'Be careful, Lady Sky,' Prince Trace said as he turned to leave, 'remember to choose your battles wisely.'

'We could go to the children's home tomorrow and introduce ourselves?' Amelie suggested that afternoon. We were sat out on one of the terraces in strapless sundresses, catching summer rays as we read through the files we were starting to put together about our project. Some of the other girls were lounging around the small outdoor pool, enjoying their 'free time', but like Tina and Zoe, we had jumped straight into our projects, striving for the best. I hoped Amelie's enthusiasm wasn't just for the video camera recording our conversation.

I sipped my iced tea and nodded, 'that's a good idea.'

'I will ask my maids to arrange a carriage and some guards to take us.' Amelie replied as she scribbled some notes onto her paper. 'The home isn't that far from here. Shall we send a letter and see if they'll let us come by tomorrow?'

'Sure.'

After a quick confirmation and scribbling down some initial ideas, Amelie and I went our separate ways and I found myself sat in my spot next to the lake, this time without dipping my toes in the water. In the summer sunshine, the water was glistening like shimmering sapphires as the fountain in the middle shot up and down like a geyser. In the peace and quiet, I could just about make out the sound of laughter by the pool, where Amelie probably now was too. A bird flew overhead and I leaned backwards in the grass, looking up at the sky and feeling the warmth of the sunshine as it kissed my freckles.

'Sunning yourself?' Zed's voice, edged with humour and amusement, caught me off-guard and I sat up as he sank into the grass beside me.

'It's a beautiful day.'

'It is,' he nodded, 'so why are you not by the pool with the other girls?' He raised an eyebrow.

'Lounging around in a bikini has never really been my thing,' I murmured, stretching my legs out in front of me. My sundress rose slightly, revealing a little more leg than I was used to showing in this competition.

'Well that is a disappointment,' his lips curved up into a teasing smile and I rolled my eyes.

'Typical guy... it's hard to remember you're a prince.'

He spoke quietly, 'I think I like it that way, though.'

'No blurred lines between feelings for you and feelings for a tiara?'

'Exactly,' he nodded and was quiet as he looked out at the water, deep in thought.

'I think a tiara would look terrible on me,' I wrinkled my nose. 'Dresses aren't really me either.'

He smiled again at that, 'really? Because you always seem to look incredibly lovely.' I blushed at the compliment and his hand found mine but he didn't hold it. Instead his fingers leaned against mine, the warmth of his skin sending electricity through my skin. 'You blush any time someone says anything positive or complimentary about you.'

'No, I don't.' I looked down at my perfectly painted toenails.

'And you are a terrible liar,' his hand moved to my cheek and the back of it stroked my cheekbone, making me suck in a deep breath. It was funny, whenever he touched me I felt drawn to him as sparks moved from his skin to mine. I turned my head and didn't miss how his eyes moved to my lips and then back up to my eyes again with his intense stare. I swallowed as his face moved towards mine.

'I'm sorry, your highness, but your father is looking for you.' A guard said, interrupting our moment.

Zed muttered something, possibly a curse and then turned to me with apologetic eyes. 'I will see you later.'

I nodded and didn't realise I was still holding a breath until I released it when he was finally out of sight. What on earth was happening to me? I couldn't be developing feelings for the Prince, could I? That was certainly not part of the plan.

The following day, with the approval of the children's home and the security team at the palace, we headed to the home for orphaned and unwanted children a few streets away from the palace. From the outside, the modern building looked more like an office building than a children's home but I knew it was wrong to judge so Amelie and I walked in with our security guards and a cameraman in tow.

'Good morning,' Amelie said, greeting the two women and gentleman sat behind a desk. They wore smart shirts and trousers even though the smell of paint was present in the air.

'Good morning Lady Amelie and Lady Sky.' The oldest woman said in greeting. 'My name is Maggie and I'm in charge of the children's home here.' She shook each of our hands. 'This is Jacob, my deputy manager and Lilian, one of our careworkers.' We shook everyone's hands eagerly. 'Let us give you a tour.'

The refurbishment had only started in the hallways, with walls painted a fresh coat of white paint and new polished wooden floors. I could see why it needed decorating; the rooms weren't welcoming for children with grey flooring and grey walls. It looked dull and prison-like and not a happy place for raising little girls. As we looked at their current rooms, which were fitted with old, creaky bunkbeds, by eyes started to well up and I had to swallow- this could have been me living here if Sally and Simon hadn't taken me in and given me a loving home.

'We need to do something,' I whispered to Amelie. 'This place looks awful.'

'I know.' She nodded. 'Could you imagine growing up somewhere like this?'

I turned to Maggie and her colleagues, 'do you have any drawn-up plans for the refurbishment?'

'We were considering just some different shades of pink,' Maggie replied. 'We can't bring in an interior designer because it would cost too much.'

'I've done a bit of interior design before,' Amelie said, 'so Sky and I could do some research over the weekend and bring in our thoughts and ideas for you next Tuesday.' The day after Zed's birthday I noted and I cursed myself in my head for thinking of him when I was working.

Zed's birthday was coming round quickly and Amelie and I kept our heads down. We knew that working hard would keep us here and the girls who didn't do that wouldn't be lasting long. Zed needed to get to the final five within a month and from that point the competition could be over in weeks or still another month or so. And I surprised myself by not wanting to go anywhere. Every morning we would laugh and joke together as we trained and I found myself knowing more about him- like the golden flecks in his deep blue eyes or how Prince Xavier was always teasing him and winding the rest of the family up. The arrogant, obnoxious Prince I'd seen in the press had become one that was actually secretly vulnerable, although would never admit it.

On Saturday, Amelie and I had decided to give ourselves a day off and the temptation to call off training with Zed lingered in my mind when my alarm went off. I couldn't remember the last lie-in I'd had. However, I knew that skipping training would mean not having any one-to-one time with him so I headed off nonetheless, despite my tiredness.

He was already waiting for me when I walked into the gym and I was surprised to see that he was dancing and not a simple waltz or silly attempt and an Irish jig. 'Good morning,' I said to him and he paused his steps and turned to face me. He smiled and his eyes sparkled as he reached for the record player and turned it off.

'Good morning,' he replied, more awake than usual. 'Sleep well, my darling?'

I blushed at the pet name, but decided to ignore it. 'Yes thank you and you?'

'Yes.' He nodded. 'I feel like other than our sessions here and at dinner, I have not seen you all week.'

'I've been sorting out my project with Amelie,' I replied. 'We've been putting a lot of hours in and you've been sorting your birthday party.'

'True.' He nodded. 'I hope you are not over-working yourself though.'

'Oh no, we're giving ourselves the day off today.'

'Hottest day of the year so far.' Zed replied. 'Would be a good day to visit the beach.'

I bit my lip as I rolled up my sleeves, 'I wouldn't know, we've never been.'

'You haven't?' Zed's eyes were wide. 'But why? The beach does not cost anything.'

'But getting there does,' I reminded him. 'Sally and Simon would take me swimming in Lake Tia sometimes but only because that was easy to get to. The beach would take two hours and could you imagine the cost for a carriage or horse that far?'

Zed's smile had gone from his face and his brows furrowed. He was quiet and thoughtful and I wondered what was on his mind.

'Shall we get to work?' I suggested, moving towards the punchbag.

'I think you are fine defending yourself now, especially after tackling me to the ground the other day.' His mouth tilted up again slightly.

'Oh,' I tried to hide my disappointment. 'So no more sessions?'

'I think you have other areas we need to address… like your dancing.'

'My waltz was fine. You said that at the concert.' I folded my arms and raised an eyebrow at him.

'But what about your salsa?' His grin was playful and my heart flipped slightly at the sight.

'Salsa? I didn't know that was part of being a princess.'

'In our family, yes,' he replied, 'but only because my mother is Spanish.'

Which must have been why we had been learning some Spanish. Now it made sense. 'I take it your mother is a good dancer?'

'Yes and luckily for you, it is a gene I have inherited.' He winked and I couldn't help thinking that all of his brothers were probably good dancers. I very much doubted otherwise. And Diamond was bound to be an excellent dancer. What about Phoenix, I wondered as Zed turned his music back on. 'Senorita?' He held out his hand and I swallowed, suddenly feeling very warm. There was something about his accent that somehow made him even more attractive if even possible.

Zed placed a hand on my hip and let me through the simple steps as I stumbled and stood on his toes.

'I'm sorry,' I apologised as my cheeks flushed red, 'I've never been good at dancing.'

'Yet you can play many instruments,' he looked thoughtful for a moment as he held my body against his. I hoped that he couldn't feel my traitorous heart thudding in my chest with increasing speed. 'Dancing is about listening to the counts, the beats, the notes… like reading a piece of music.' He walked me through the steps and counted them as we moved. 'Imagine your feet are the instruments,' he murmured, bending down closer so that he was almost saying the words in my ear. My breath caught in my throat at the closeness as we moved together. 'Better.' He whispered in praise.

'When you said that training me was for entertainment purposes…' I trailed off, too shy to continue asking my question.

'Perhaps I was lying,' his mouth crept into a slow smile and he bowed to me. 'We should get ready for breakfast.' He said and he left the room, leaving me to deal with my shaky knees and thudding heart by myself.

Most of the girls spent that afternoon by the pool and I happily joined them. I'd changed into a bikini and but kept on a loose, white shirt to hide my body and I'd sat with the girls, chatting and laughing by the water as I read my old copy of The Great Gatsby. It was nice to have some time to relax, even if the girls were talking about Prince Zed.

'Has anyone kissed him yet?' Lucie asked, looking around at all of us.

'I wish.' Amelie murmured and a few of the other girls sighed in agreement. I swallowed. It would be lovely to kiss Zed. I felt sparks when his skin touched mine so no doubt there would be fireworks if we kissed. She turned to Sarah-Louise. 'How was your date with him yesterday?'

'Good,' she smiled. 'We went for a lovely walk around the palace gardens.'

'That's hardly a date.' Lucie scoffed and I resisted the urge to glare at her for her unpleasantness.

'It was lovely.' Sarah-Louise said, defending herself. 'And he was a gentleman.'

'I can't believe he's holding back so much,' Lucie replied. 'I hope he's not become boring in this contest… maybe he'll let his hair down a bit at his birthday party… he should do when he sees the dress I have lined up.'

'Which dress did you choose?' Amelie asked as Tina and Zoe rolled their eyes at me.

'That pink one with the huge thigh slit,' she flicked her pin-straight, black hair over her shoulder. 'Might as well show a little bit of leg and my figure off as these dresses aren't doing anything for me.'

She was becoming more shallow by the moment and it was vile.

'Lady Sky,' Abby appeared and addressed me formally in front of the girls, 'some post has arrived for you.'

I was glad to be leaving the conversation behind and I followed her inside happily, my wrap covering my swimsuit. 'Is it from my parents?'

'I think so.' She said. 'But it's quite a bulky letter so maybe you have heard from somebody else.'

I took the letter out onto my balcony when I returned to my room, and I stretched out my legs, catching the last rays of the day as I read.

Baby girl,

Congratulations on getting to the final 10! We're so proud of you sweetie and the public love you. Ms Creedy has been telling everyone that you're her granddaughter she's so proud and we've had a lot more requests for artwork with you living in the palace. Are they looking after you properly? Are you eating enough? Is Prince Zed nice? We've noticed he's not getting much bad press recently so hopefully having a load of girls to impress has tamed him!

Write back soon and we look forward to seeing more of what's been going on, especially now there is more footage being released.

Love you,

Sally and Simon

My eyes welled with tears and I swallowed them back as I placed down the letter and thought of my parents, and even Ms Creedy. They'd always been there for me and I knew that perhaps I would not have got this far if it wasn't for the love and support they'd given and how their kindness had helped me to grow into the girl I was today.

I picked up the other envelope and my stomach twisted at the handwriting; Ellen. She had actually replied to me. It had taken a lot of time, but I understood why. She was mad and needed time to think it through. Ellen was good like that. She didn't rush into an argument, always thought about what she needed to say. I tore the envelope open carefully, trying to ignore my sweaty palms.

Sky,

I'm sorry it's taken me so long to write. I've not been ignoring you but I've been thinking the whole thing through. Truthfully, I was mad at you. Not mad for applying because I'd encouraged that and I know how important the money was, but I was mad you didn't tell me, your best friend. We tell each other everything. I know you well and I know you never thought you'd be chosen, Sally and Simon told me that much when they saw me at the grocery store last week. I'm not sure why though, Sky. You say I'm clever and beautiful but you're bloody gorgeous and you're ambitious and talented. They'd be daft not to have chosen you and that's clear from the photographs and some of the videos released. You work hard and treat everyone with kindness and that's what being a princess is all about.

I am slightly envious of you spending all this time with Prince Zed and the other Princes though. They are all ridiculously gorgeous and I'm guessing they look even better in real life? I saw some of the videos of you dancing with Zed at the Ed Sheeran concert and you looked very cute together, even in the blurry photographs! What is he like really? Are his bad boy ways gone? And what is the palace like other than pretty bedrooms with silky sheets to die for? I bet the desserts you've been eating are divine!

I hope you'll forgive me for not replying sooner and I hope that maybe I'll hear from you soon. I'll be rooting you and leading the Team Sky fanclub.

Ellen

A tear rolled down my cheek and I quickly brushed it away before looking down at the garden. I couldn't see the pool from here but the laughter I'd been able to hear had quietened down and I knew the other girls would be getting ready for dinner. I looked out at the fountain and the maze beyond it. I could see a figure walking through the hedges and I knew it was Zed from his posture. He was running his hand through his hair and he looked on edge about something.

'Sky, you have a package.' My gazing was interrupted by Abby. She held a large white box in her hand and placed it on my tiny table for two, moving my empty teacup out of the way carefully. 'Do you think it's from Prince Zed?'

My eyes darted to the gardens again but I couldn't see him now and I hoped he hadn't caught me spying. 'No one back home could afford to send me a package.' I replied as I carefully removed the lid. Inside was a load of tissue paper with a small card at the top.

Have a lie-in tomorrow. I will send breakfast to your room at 9 and then I will pick you up at 10. You will need to wear these and do not forget a bikini,

Zed

I noticed how he'd not put his formal title and it made me feel warm inside, as did the news that I was going on another date with him.

I opened the tissue paper carefully and found myself looking at a pair of brown leggings, a loose white shirt and a blue embroidered underbust corset. There were some brown boots too.

'No heels and no formalwear.' Abby said with a smile as Chloe came over to take a peek.

'I can't remember the last time I wore trousers for the day.' I replied. 'These look so comfortable.'

Chloe scanned the card, 'we'll find your nicest bikini for you to wear. If I didn't know better I'd say you were going to the beach.'

I smiled as I sank back in my chair, running my fingers over the embroidery on the underbust corset. For the first time in my life, I was going to the beach.

I slept in until eight o'clock the following morning and the extra two hours made me feel fresh. I showered as usual but, as I got dressed, the nerves began to kick in. I dressed in a simple bikini and then put on the leggings, shirt and corset as Abby ran serum through my curls, smoothing them slightly so they were not as wild. Chloe did my make-up, giving me some natural, waterproof eyeshadow, eyeliner and mascara but leaving my already peach lips clear of any product. I didn't realise I was shaking until Abby grabbed my hands.

'Sky, you look gorgeous, relax.' She told me as she laced my corset up tighter. The outfit was casual but sort of sexy and my figure had the perfect hourglass shape. 'Prince Zed must like you if he's taking you all the way to the beach for the day and he bought you clothes for the occasion.'

'Maybe it's more a friend's thing?' I suggested. 'It's all very casual.'

'You said yourself that you felt like he could be himself around you. That's probably what this is.'

A knock at the door signalled breakfast and Chloe collected it and set it up before I could argue that I didn't want to eat anything.

'Am I taking a bag?' I asked as I swallowed a strawberry before my maids force-fed me.

'You don't need one.' Chloe replied.

'I don't need one?' My maids glanced at each other. 'Not even a towel?'

'Prince Zed has it covered.'

'You knew he was taking me to the beach, didn't you?'

'He was checking your schedule was clear,' Abby replied, 'he couldn't exactly ask Amelie if you were planning on visiting the children's home.'

Yeah, that would have been awkward. 'How long have you known?'

'Since yesterday afternoon. We were trying to think of an outfit for you to wear when that package arrived. Saved us some hassle really.'

'When did you see Prince Zed?'

'He dropped by when you were at the pool.' Chloe smiled. 'That's why we think he really likes you. We're sure he's not been talking to any of the other girls' maids about organising dates.' She lowered her voice, 'he's also not been training any of the other girls.'

My heart sank. 'I-'

'We've known for ages.' Abby said, 'and we're not going to tell anybody. It's quite obvious with all this sneaking round and looking worn out, plus your figure has changed since you came in.'

'Prince Trace walked in on us the other day,' I admitted. 'He found me on top of Prince Zed,' their eyes widened, 'but in a completely harmless way… well sort of. I tackled him to the ground and he just walked in at the wrong moment.'

Chloe and Abby both laughed as the older of the two shook her head, 'well attacking the Prince is one way to win him over.'

The next hour raced around and I was thankful not to run into any of the other girls as Zed and I walked along the corridor together. He offered his arm, always the gentleman, but it seemed strange taking it when I was dressed so casually. I was breaking the lady dresscode Lady Evelyn had lined up for us, the only ladylike thing being my natural make-up and the pretty braids that were pinned on each side of my head, pulling loose strands away from my face. He looked casual too and definitely not prince-like in his beach attire; dark brown trousers tucked into leather boots and a loose, white shirt. Next to the 6ft Prince, I felt small without my heels on but he didn't seem at all phased.

'I hope you do not mind but we are riding again today.' He said to me as we reached the front of the palace. The same ebony-black horse as before stood there waiting for us, saddlebags attached and ready.

'And the guards?' I raised my eyebrows.

'Will follow as before,' he replied, 'but I have told them they are to keep themselves hidden. It is bad enough we have a camera coming with us,' He frowned and tensed as the camera man climbed into a carriage.

'It's fine.' I told him with a reassuring smile, but the thought made me just as nervous.

'I have told them they only get an hour,' he said and I nodded. That seemed fair, but it also meant that he wanted alone time with me, didn't it? He helped me onto the horse and we rode through the warm summer's hair on our hour and a half-long journey.

Zed and his palace guards rode into a grand-looking gated property with windows big enough to cover the whole walls as they faced the ocean. It was a family home, he'd told me, as we'd stopped by a small stables. We headed straight down to the empty beach, which simply took my breath away. I paused at the top of the garden steps as I took in my surroundings; soft white sand decorated with the occasional rock or bits of shrubbery, glistening blue waves gently lapping against the sand. The sea salt smell filled the air and the gentle breeze masked the summer heat slightly. My mouth gaped and then I smiled, before excitedly running onto the sand, kicking my boots off as I ran. I heard a soft laugh from Zed as he chased after me but I didn't stop until my feet were in the water. I let out a squeal as my bare feet touched the cold liquid, not quite expecting it to be so cold. Zed appeared beside me, having ditched his boots too and he smiled down at me, his eyes the colour of the ocean.

'What are your first thoughts of the beach?' He asked as his eyes searched mine.

'I'm not sure there are any words.' I replied, looking across the bay. There were no nearby houses, other than their family home and the beach was empty apart from the camera pointing our way.

Zed's fingers intertwined with mine and he squeezed my hand. 'I knew you would like it.'

We walked along the beach together, our feet dipped into the water as we strolled, hand-in-hand. Anything that I'd been worried about over the last week or so drifted away, the tension leaving my feet and releasing itself into the ocean. The sound of the waves was relaxing and the sun's rays warmed my already-freckled face.

'Did you have a nice time at the pool yesterday?' He asked as the water lapped against our ankles. I glanced at him and saw his signature mischievous look.

'How did you know I wouldn't be in when you came to see my maids?'

'I saw all of you girls by the pool.' He replied with a lopsided smile.

'You didn't say hello.'

'It would have been carnage.' He winked. 'What were you reading by the way?'

'The Great Gatsby.'

He looked surprised, but quoted the book anyway. 'So we beat on, boats against the current, borne back ceaselessly into the past.'

'You didn't think I'd read Fitzgerald did you?' I asked as we reached some rocks on the edge of the ocean. He sat down and pulled me to sit down beside me, our thighs, arms and shoulders pressed together and sending sparks through my skin.

'I picture you reading Hans Christen Andersen or even some Nicholas Sparks.' He said with a teasing smile.

I rolled my eyes, 'I'm quite well-read thank you. Shakespeare, Fitzgerald, Austen…'

'Love stories I notice.'

'Not all of them,' I argued, 'but I do like a good love story.'

'So do I,' he whispered for just me to hear, 'but that is something I would rather you did not share.'

'In case it ruins your reputation?' I teased and he smiled back at me.

'I think my bad reputation is on its way out,' he replied. 'I have not had a wild party in a long time.'

'Don't speak too soon,' I nudged his shoulder with mine, 'you have a party tomorrow remember?'

'It is not going to be like the old parties… mum is actually letting me host it at the palace because I am only inviting my friends.'

'And you didn't before?' I raised an eyebrow.

'Oh no, I thought they were my friends but everyone wants to party with a prince or a millionaire just to make front page news.' His mouth formed a straight line and he glanced down, hurt evident. 'It is pretty difficult to tell who is with me for my title and whose there for me.' I thought of the girls in the competition and he sighed as if knowing what I was thinking. 'This is what makes this whole selection process so difficult. I am trying to find the one but who is here just because they fancy being a princess? And who is here because they want to get to know Zed Benedict?'

'I understand completely,' I said softly.

He gave me a small smile, 'would you tell me? If someone was here just for the wealth and fame? I feel like I can trust you to be honest with me… you are not like some of the others… a bit more ballsy perhaps.'

'Ballsy?' I laughed.

'Well you did tackle me to the ground.' He replied.

I smiled, but then froze at the camera. 'Can they hear us?' I whispered.

'Quite possibly.' He smirked.

'Oh goodness.' I cringed, burying my face in embarrassment but he laughed, draping his arm across my shoulder and pulling me towards him. My heart thudded in response as my cheeks flushed. 'But for the record, I'd tell you if I thought someone was here for the wrong reasons.'

'Good,' he opened his mouth to say something else but a glance at the camera and he hesitated. Instead he got to his feet and held out his hand to me, 'we have not done any training today.'

'You offered me a lie-in,' I whispered back.

He smiled a lopsided smile. 'Race you back to the picnic basket.'

As we finished our delicious lunch that Zed had organised, complete with different sandwiches, fruit salad, cakes and more, the camera man packed up and left us be, keeping his promise. I didn't miss how Zed's posture relaxed as he finished his lemonade and leaned back on the blanket he'd brought along. Now we were truly alone, apart from the security guards that were hiding out of sight, protecting us without getting in the way. And it made me feel more relaxed too.

'You're glad they've gone,' I said to him.

'They wanted to stay all day,' he sighed. 'I feel like I cannot be myself with them around… like the public are watching my every move.'

'I know the feeling. I felt like that when they've followed Amelie and I around this week. I don't know how you cope with it all the time.'

'With difficulty,' he admitted, 'but knowing you are uncomfortable makes it harder… some of the other girls seem perfectly fine being watched… it makes me question their intentions.' He paused and his eyes moved away from the sea to meet mine, 'I feel like somehow you are the only one I can be myself around, which is weird because I have never really opened up to people.'

'I only ever opened up to Ellen,' I replied, 'but even then I didn't tell her everything.' I bit my lip. 'I didn't tell Ellen that I'd signed up for the selection.'

He looked surprised by this, 'why not?'

'Because she signed up too,' I sighed.

'And was she disappointed?'

'More angry with me for not saying anything, I think.'

'So why did you not tell her?'

I broke eye contact and looked down at the sand underneath my bare feet. 'Because I never thought I'd be chosen.'

'Why would you think that?' He asked softly as his fingers intertwined with mine.

'I'm from Whitebridge for one. I'm not beautiful, there's nothing special about me and I have zero experience of being a princess or a lady.'

'Wrong on all counts,' he murmured and I looked up at him shyly. 'You are modest, trustworthy and hardworking. You are talented, courageous and ambitious. You came in here not knowing anything about this lifestyle, but look how far you have come… even Lady Evelyn is on your side.' He caught a loose curl as it blew in the breeze and he tucked it carefully behind my ear. Instead of taking his hand away, he held it against my cheek, sending goosebumps shooting across my skin. 'Sky, you are beautiful inside and out and that is something hard to find.'

'I like wearing jeans and I enjoy training… I read the classics… I'm a terrible dancer and I probably enjoy chocolate and dessert far too much… I'd be a terrible princess.'

Zed leaned towards me so that our faces were just inches apart. 'I do not think you give yourself enough credit,' he whispered and then his lips gently touched mine in the lightest of kisses. My lips tingled at the touch that was almost as gentle as a flutter of a butterfly's wings. Zed leaned into me and the sparks were explosive as his lips moved against mine with more pressure applied. His other hand moved to my waist and I instinctively moved mine to his shoulders, hoping I was doing the right thing- how was I to know? I'd never kissed anyone before and the kiss felt explosive. He pulled back all too soon and rested his forehead against mine as I considered moving my lips to his again.

'Sorry,' Zed apologised. 'I should have asked first… it would have been more gentlemanly of me.'

I closed the gap between us with another kiss in response, silently telling him it was okay, and he smiled into the kiss as his thumb caressed my cheek. I pulled back this time, searching his eyes in the hope that maybe he'd felt as alive and connected through that kiss as I had. I sat back a little, searching his eyes and they sparkled, all lit up as he smiled at me. The smile was contagious and I found myself returning it.

'Fancy a swim?' He asked, his deep blue eyes looking right into my soul.

'The water's cold.' I laughed.

'I will keep you warm.'

I fiddled with the hem of my shirt, 'I don't look as good in my bikini as the other girls do.'

'Rubbish.' He replied, pulling his shirt over his head. I swallowed; the six pack and muscles I'd dreamt about underneath his workout gear were very much real. A good-looking prince with an incredible body. Life was becoming more and more cruel. 'I can throw you in fully clothed if you would rather?' He gave me his signature lopsided grin as he slipped his trousers off so that he was sat in just navy swimshorts, showing off the olive-coloured skin he'd inherited from both of his parents. His perfect body made me feel even more nervous.

'You wouldn't throw me in.' I said.

'Want to bet?' He grinned and I knew he meant it. And that would mean sitting in wet clothes for the rest of the afternoon.

'Turn around.' I told him. Ever the gentleman, he turned around, giving me privacy as I unbuttoned my shirt and unlaced my corset. I slipped it off and then my leggings too, tucking them carefully under the picnic basket. 'Okay.' I said with my arms folded across my chest. Before I could stop him, Zed bent down and scooped me into his arms and carried me towards the sea. 'What are you doing?!' I cried out, waving my arms and legs around.

'You said I would not throw you in,' he smiled.

'Okay, you will, now put me down,' I said as we reached the shoreline.

'Nu-uh.' He walked into the water and I widened my eyes as he walked in deeper, carrying me with him.

'Zed!' I cried out. 'What are you doing?'

'Putting you down?' He dropped me into the water and I let out a squeal as I landed in the cold saltwater.

'Eeek!' I called out, wrapping my arms around my body. 'It's freezing.'

'The problem with swimming in the sea in our country.' He smiled down at me and I took the opportunity to splash him. He yelped this time too and I laughed as he chased through the water after me. The water resistance made it harder and somehow he was used to it so grabbed me, spinning me back round so that I was facing him. And then his lips were on mine again and suddenly I wasn't so cold any more.

It was dark when we finally left the beach. We'd both dried out, although my curls were wavy thanks to the saltwater and the smell of the beach filled the air as we rode back towards the palace. We'd eaten again in an empty park by the coast as we watched the sunset and the waves kissing the shoreline one last time, and then we were back in the city, back to the dawning reality. I was wearing Zed's cloak and I wrapped it tighter around myself, enjoying the scent; it smelt just like him, all outdoorsy with a fraction of aftershave.

'Sky?' Zed said as we rode along the driveway of the palace.

'Yes?'

'Thank you.'

'For what?' I smiled.

'For making me forget today that I was a prince… I felt like just a normal guy on a date with a beautiful girl… it was lovely.' His hand squeezed my knee before retreating back to the reins. Instead of looking sad, he was still smiling and it was a wonderful and radiant sight that filled my heart with warmth.

'Well thank you for taking me to the beach.' I replied.

'Did you enjoy it?'

'I loved it.' I said, honestly.

He smiled as he pulled into the stables. In silence, he helped me down from the horse and he held my hand as he walked me back to my room. We could hear voices in rooms as we headed up the hallway and Zed pulled me into my room, startling Abby and Chloe, who were sewing dresses in the corner.

'Your highness.' They said, startled, as they clambered to their feet.

'No need for that when it is so late.' Zed murmured to them, suddenly back in Prince mode again for the first time since we set off that day. 'I have just come to drop Lady Sky off.' They excused themselves, busying themselves in my bathroom and Zed took that opportunity to wrap his arms around my waist. 'Goodnight, my love.' He said to me softly before he gently pressed his lips against mine in a kiss that made my knees weak.

He pulled back and I replied, 'goodnight.' Zed walked towards the door. 'Your cloak.' I said, suddenly remembering I was wearing an item of his clothing.

'Keep it.' He murmured and with one final smile, he was gone.

'See we told you he likes you.' Abby stated when the door had closed.

I wrapped the cloak tighter around myself as I blushed. 'How much did you see?'

Chloe smiled across at me as she picked up the dress she'd been working on, 'only as much as you want us to.'