My magic was responding to happiness, to hope rather than strategic planning.
“The plants are reacting,” I said, my voice unsteady.
“I noticed.” Dominic traced his fingers along my jaw. “They’re responding to the possibility of something real between us.” He held my gaze, his own eyes reflecting the firelight. “If you want it. If you’re willing to risk it.”
My heart pounded against my ribs. Every instinct I’d honed over years of keeping myself controlled and focused screamed at me to pull back, to rebuild my walls and protect myself from the vulnerability of caring this much.
But looking up at Dominic made my magic flip around inside me.
Working together today had felt natural, like we were complementing each other’s strengths rather than competing for focus. His intuition balanced my analysis. His flexibility enhanced my structure.
Maybe I could be both the strategist and the woman who was starting to care for her husband. Maybe they weren’t mutually exclusive after all.
“I’m willing,” I whispered. “To risk it. If you are.”
His smile transformed his face, making him look younger and unguarded. “I’ve been willing since you moaned while eating those cakes in the kitchen.”
Surprised laughter burst from me. “That’s what did it?”
“Among other things.” His expression turned more serious, though warmth still shone in his eyes. “But mostly it was watching you work. Seeing how you looked at dying plants like they’re puzzles worth understanding rather than inconveniences to ignore.”
“Your Majesties?” A voice called from beyond the door,making us both jump apart. “I have dessert when you’re ready.”
Dominic closed his eyes, frustration flickering across his features. “Thank you. Just leave it outside the door, please.”
“Of course, Your Majesty.”
Footsteps retreated.
Dominic turned back to me. “We should probably eat dessert.”
“Probably.”
Neither of us moved.
Finally, Dominic’s hand dropped, though his gaze remained locked with mine. “This isn’t finished.”
“No,” I said, my voice steadier than I felt inside. “It’s not.”
Maybe being vulnerable with the right person wasn’t weakness.
Maybe it was the bravest thing I could do.
CHAPTER TWELVE
DOMINIC
Sasha’s dark eyes held mine with an openness I hadn’t seen before, and the plants around our suite practically glowed with new health.
“We should probably still eat that dessert,” I said, though neither of us moved toward the door.
“Should we?” A smile teased across her mouth. “I’m not particularly hungry anymore.”
“Neither am I.” I reached out, catching her hand. The same electric tingle I’d sensed before sparked between us.
Fated mates. Did I dare tell her?
“Alaina will be devastated if we waste her cake,” I pointed out.
