The Prince & the Pregnant Princess. Susan Mallery

studied her. He took the handkerchief and wiped her cheeks. “I see tears. I doubt they are from excitement. Tell me, Cleo. What makes you so sad?”

      No way she could confess that, she thought glumly. Talking about Sadik’s former fiancée would only get her in trouble.

      “Is it Zara?” he asked.

      “No. I mean I really miss her a lot, but she’s so happy here. Plus you’re her family—this is where she belongs.”

      The king continued to hold her hand. “Cleo, I repeat what I told you before. You are welcome to make this your home, as well. I would be delighted if you would stay in the palace. Or if you would prefer, you could live in the City of Thieves. Either way you would be close to your sister.” He paused, then smiled. “I have to say that I would recommend Bahania. You do not strike me as the medieval city type.”

      Cleo tried to laugh but found herself crying instead. Hassan pulled her close.

      “Such sadness,” he murmured. “Tell me what I can do to ease your pain.”

      His kindness only made her cry harder. Part of her couldn’t believe this was happening. Hassan wasn’t just Zara’s father, he was the king of Bahania. What was wrong with this picture?