As they pulled away from the castle, Lila pressed her face closer to the window, watching Nova Aurora’s alien landscape roll past in the gathering twilight. The volcanic ridges glowed with inner fire, and the twin moons hung like pearls in the darkening sky, casting everything in ethereal silver light.
“It’s so breathtaking,” she whispered.
“It is.” But when she glanced over, Draven wasn’t looking at the scenery. His eyes were fixed on her profile with a burning intensity that made her skin tingle. “Though the view has improved considerably since yesterday.”
Oh, he’s definitely not hiding his feelings tonight.
The flirtation in his voice was unmistakable, sending warmth surging through her veins. She should redirect the conversation and maintain those professional boundaries she’d worked so hard to establish. Instead, she found herself smiling.
“You’re shameless tonight.”
“Completely.” His grin turned wicked. “I find honesty works better than pretense.”
The restaurant perched on the cliff’s edge like a jewel, its glass walls offering panoramic views of the pink sea stretching to the horizon. As they entered, Lila noticed the way other diners turned to stare—some with curiosity, others with barely concealed shock at seeing their king dining with a human.
“Your Majesty.” The maître d’ appeared instantly, bowing low. “Your usual table?”
“The private dining room,” Draven commanded, his tone brooking no argument. “We’re not to be disturbed.”
Lila felt his hand settle on her lower back as he guided her through the restaurant, the possessive gesture both thrilling and dangerous. The private room overlooked the most spectacular view—volcanic ridges rising like ancient sentinels, their peaks wreathed in aurora light that danced across the sky in ribbons of green and gold.
“This place is really magical.” She moved to the floor-to-ceiling windows, mesmerized by the alien beauty spreading before them.
“It’s more magical with you here.”
The words, spoken low and close behind her, made her breath hitch. She turned to find him watching her with an expression that was pure predator—all focused intensity and barely leashed desire.
He’s trying to wear down my professional boundaries.
The realization should have alarmed her. Instead, it sent a thrill of anticipation through her body. Between his devastating good looks, the romantic setting, and the way he stared at her like she was the most fascinating creature in the universe, her defenses were crumbling faster than she could rebuild them.
“The chef here is exceptional,” Draven continued as they settled at the intimate table. “Trust me to order for us? The three-course meal is to die for.”
“I—”
Three courses sounds like a lot.
“It’s the best here,” he assured her, signaling the waiter with a subtle gesture that spoke of absolute authority. “You won’t regret it.”
The waiter materialized beside their table with practiced efficiency. “Your Majesty, the usual wine selection?”
“Bring us the Sidaii Reserve.” Draven’s eyes never left Lila’s face. “And the tasting menu—all three courses.”
As the waiter departed, Lila leaned back in her chair, studying the man across from her. Gone was the tormented patient from this morning’s session. In his place sat a confident alpha male who commanded everything around him with effortless grace.
“So this is you outside the therapy room,” she observed.
“This is me with someone I want to impress.” His honesty was disarming. “How am I doing so far?”
Before she could answer, the wine arrived—a deep red liquid that sparkled like liquid rubies in the crystal glasses. Lila took a sip and felt the warmth spread through her system immediately, loosening the tight coil of professional anxiety she’d been carrying.
Oh, this is strong.
The Sidaii wine was nothing like Earth alcohol—it was richer, more complex, with an almost effervescent quality that made her feel lighter and more relaxed.
“Careful,” Draven warned with amusement. “That affects humans differently than shifters.”
“I can handle my wine.” The words came out with more confidence than she felt, especially when she noticed how his eyes darkened at her challenge.
