"Leave?" Alex asked, looking around. "Right now? But the auction is nearly over."
"I understand, but it is urgent and I must leave. Since I have to look after you, you need to come with me too," the prince said.
Alex hesitated. It was just a few more minutes before the auction was over. It would be shortly after that when he would get to meet with the seller. He couldn't leave just yet.
"I'm sorry, but I'll be staying," Alex said.
"But you are not safe on your own. You must leave with us," the prince said again.
"I understand, and yet I must stay. I need to meet with a friend," Alex said.
The prince didn't have too long to consider anything else. He simply nodded. "If that is your wish, then please stay, but take care of yourself. If something were to happen, use our family's insignia to get help from the others."
Alex nodded. "I will do that."
"Take care," the prince said, and left the room without a single other word.
