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Making his way out of the building, Mehdi took a deep breath, checking his watch The day had ed on, and the sun would be setting in a couple of hours

Waving to the limo, Mehdi opted to walk to the beach, which was only about a half hour stroll fro He placed his hands in his pockets as he sauntered, nodding to people as he passed them by on the sidewalk He wasto address hiive him his space A couple of times he was stopped and asked to take a picture, which he did with a smile

Mehdi loved being a his parents had always made sure he did, so that he could be reminded that they were not above anyone just because they were royal

He heard the lapping waves of the beach before he saw theazed out at the blue sky which was dotted with a few clouds The beach was fairly busy, with children playing and couples relaxing on the fine, warm sand

Mehdi’s eyes co for Steph Perhaps she had con of her, his hope dwindled

It was fara complete and utter fool Would he stand on that beach alone until the stars came out? Would he stand there alone forever?

Plopping down on the sand, Mehdi waited, hardly daring to hope

“Steph, I’m here,” he whispered

EIGHTEEN

Steph

Time see there was to know about each El Farahn family member she had never known existed The house was soot a chance to peek outside, she felt a wave of panic

“It’s almost sunset!” she cried

Her father approached to look out the ith her

“Why does that matter?”

Steph huffed in frustration “Tell Moo—she’ll knohere”

“Steph, what on earth—”

Before her father could finish his exclamation, Steph had her purse in hand and was already out the door She spotted a cab a block away and ran for it

Athe vehicle as Steph approached the driver, her breath labored