“Your troubles, whatever they are, are a long way away from here, your highness.”

He wasn’t trying to be sarcastic. He wasn’t trying to belittle her for feeling beholden to things he couldn’t understand, but at the same time, if there was ever a moment where she wanted a break from being the Princess ... this was likely the only place she would ever really have it. Pointing that out to her was no guarantee that she would embrace the fun of being with him, though, so he’s trying to steel his heart from the possibility of rejection.

“I feel like I like you the right amount.” He says with a shrug. “But. You’re accomplished and classy and smart. I can’t find anything to dislike yet.”