A long leather ottoman was placed at the foot of the bed while two silver nightstands were at the head of the bed. The ceiling had the same dark carved detail as in the living room, while a huge antique silver chandelier hung from the center of the ceiling, making the room glitter with soft iridescent light.

The space was expansive, furnishings were simple and yet the overall effect was sophisticated and glamorous. Poppy had slept in some beautiful rooms, but nothing came close to this understated luxury. Silks, satins and velvet. Furniture and wood covered in silver and gold.

“You’re sure you want me in here? This looks like a room reserved for family.”

“All rooms at the Kasbah are for family, and our special guests.”

Something in his tone made her pulse jump. “When did I become a special guest?”

“When your job shifted from performing routine, mundane tasks to aiding me in a critical mission.”

“Finding you a new secretary is a critical mission?”

“Absolutely. I’m a very busy, very important man. Surely you know that by now?” And then he smiled, his mocking, self-deprecating smile, and she felt a funny flutter in her chest. He was making fun of himself, teasing her in his self-deprecating manner, and she’d never been able to resist him when he made her smile.

“Can we please start with the search tomorrow? I’m beyond exhausted.”

“Is this your way of saying you’re not up for a big banquet tonight with live entertainment and a stream of visiting dignitaries?”

Poppy grimaced, unable to imagine a worse ending to what had been an absolutely horrendous day. “We’re not really doing that, are we?”

“I am Prince Talal.”

She saw the gleam in his golden eyes and the ache was back in her chest.

But then, she’d never been able to resist much about him. Even on the first day of work, she’d felt giddy in his presence. She’d thought that eventually she’d outgrow the juvenile reaction. Instead, she just developed deeper feelings, and a stronger attachment. “If you are indeed the prince, then you can excuse me from the lovely, but possibly lengthy, festivities.”

“What if the festivities were short?”

“I’ve rather had it. I just want to go to bed and stay there forever.”

“In that case, go to bed after dinner. Tomorrow is going to be a busy day. We have work to do, and since you’re only here for fourteen days, we can’t afford to waste any time.”

“I’ll be up early,” she promised, unable to imagine life without him. It would be hard not seeing him almost every day. After she was gone, there would be no bounding out of bed, eager to get her day started.

“I’ll have a tray sent to you,” he said. “In the meantime, you’ll find all the basics you’ll need for the Kasbah in here.” He opened one of the doors of the huge wardrobe. “I’m sure one of the dresses should fit, and then tomorrow one of the ladies’ maids can adjust the others, and if need be, I can bring in a seamstress to make up anything else you might need.”

“I don’t need a lady’s maid. I’m quite used to fending for myself.”

“It would offend them if you refused assistance.”

“Can you not explain that I’m English and eccentric?”

“Oh, I’m sure they’ll realize just how eccentric you are, but please don’t reject them. They’ve been trained by Izba, and Izba will want you happy.”

Poppy sighed and rubbed at her forehead. “Fine. But there is no need to bring a seamstress in. I’m only here a short time and tunics are sort of a one-size-fits-all kind of dress. I should be fine without alterations.”

“Sounds good. Sleep well, and I’ll see you in the morning.” Then he was gone, leaving her alone in the spacious suite.

Poppy had just opened the wardrobe to look for a nightgown when a light knock sounded on the door and then her door opened.

“Good evening,” a young woman greeted Poppy in careful, stilted English. “May I please help you?”

“Thank you, but—” Poppy broke off, remembering Dal’s warning and not wanting to offend anyone, much less within twenty minutes of arriving. “Yes, thank you.