The King turned to Katelyn and suggested directly, “How about we play a quick game of chess?”

Katelyn was momentarily taken aback. “Huh?” She hadn’t anticipated the King’s abrupt suggestion, but quickly composed herself and said, “Okay.”

Katelyn rose and accompanied the King to a vast floor-to-ceiling window. Encircling the window were various exotic plants, with sunlight softly illuminating the space, creating a warm and inviting environment. Beneath the gentle sun, a chessboard was already prepared. Katelyn took her seat across from the King. She was good at chess.

The two engaged in the game with little conversation, concentrating solely on their moves. After about twenty minutes, Katelyn advanced a pawn, capturing the King’s final piece. This move determined the outcome. Katelyn was victorious.

The King appeared slightly surprised, then offered a smile and said, “You do have some ability.”

Katelyn’s gameplay was methodical and composed, showcasing patience and strategic thinking. Her meticulous approach was evident in her play.

Katelyn responded with a humble smile and a nod, “Thank you.” The King showed no displeasure; instead, he smiled again and suggested, “Let’s play another round.”

“Okay.”

They began their second game.

Meanwhile, outside the reception room, Vincent, typically calm and controlled, stood by the door, his usually composed expression marred by a rare sign of concern.

He wanted to go in, but Barry stopped him, saying respectfully, “Mr. Adams, the King is currently engaged with a guest. Please wait here.”

Vincent was well aware that the King was with a guest. And that guest was Katelyn.

He said to Barry in a subdued tone, “I need to speak with the King urgently, and I’m acquainted with his guest.”

Barry remained silent. He stood firm in front of Vincent, clearly not planning to step aside. It was apparent that it was the King’s directive to prevent Vincent from seeing Katelyn at this moment.

Vincent’s anxiety grew. He speculated on the King’s reasons for meeting privately with Katelyn. If the King took any adverse actions, Katelyn might not be able to handle them.

Just then, another figure entered through the doorway.

Upon seeing it, Barry quickly nodded with respect and said, “Princess Ryanna.”

Vincent turned to see Ryanna approaching.

As Ryanna recalled everything that had happened at the hotel earlier, a strange expression crossed her face, though it quickly faded. She then turned to Vincent, her expression softening. “Vincent.”

When Vincent saw Ryanna, his expression softened, and he gave a small nod as a greeting. He then resumed watching the entrance to the reception room.

Though Vincent maintained a composed exterior, his underlying anxiety was detectable. Ryanna, maintaining her smile, suggested gently, “Vincent, rather than waiting here, why don’t we find a quieter place to talk? I have something to discuss with you.”

Vincent’s brow furrowed. After a moment’s pause, he agreed and said, “Okay.”

He walked with Ryanna in a different direction. They arrived at a gazebo near the reception room, where a variety of fruits and snacks were laid out on a table.

However, Vincent barely acknowledged the refreshments. He turned to Ryanna and asked pointedly, “Princess Ryanna, what did you want to discuss?”

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