Sofia's heart skipped a beat as the man spoke. How did he know who she was? Leila's hand tightened on her arm, her voice a whisper. "Princess, let's go." But Sofia was frozen, her eyes locked on the stranger. He was tall, with broad shoulders and a chiseled jaw. His eyes seemed to bore into her soul, and Sofia felt a flutter in her chest.
The stranger smiled, a slow, lazy smile. "Don't be afraid, Princess. I'm not here to harm you." He took a step closer, his eyes never leaving Sofia's face. "My name is Arin, and I've been tracking you for hours." Leila's voice was sharp. "Why?" she asked, her hand on Sofia's arm. Arin's eyes flicked to Leila, and for a moment, Sofia saw something like recognition. "I was sent to protect you, Princess," he said, his eyes returning to Sofia. "You're in danger. The king has sent men to find you.