Prince hesitated, his hand still gripping the door.

He glanced back at Val, who sat up slightly, her bare shoulders peeking out from under the sheet.

She shook her head firmly, silently pleading with her eyes.

He understood immediately that she didn't want to talk with him.

"She's resting," Prince replied, turning back to her uncle. "She had a long night. Maybe you can come back later?"

Her uncle's brows furrowed, but he didn't press further. He sighed.

"I see," he said slowly. "Well, when she wakes up, please tell her I need to speak with her urgently."

"I'll let her know," Prince said, nodding curtly.

The man tuned and...