Chapter 0109

Father takes it easy on me during training, but the workout still leaves me pleasantly sore. Every movement strengthens not just my body, but Selene too. She's fully present in my mind again, though not strong enough to shift yet.

I skip the bath for a quick shower, knowing I'll need extra time to get ready. Since Adrian didn't specify where we're going—only that I should dress up—I settle on a deep red off-the-shoulder sweater dress. A wide brown belt cinches my waist, paired with knee-high leather boots. I style my curls into loose waves, adding a small braid pinned to one side. My makeup is subtle—soft smoky eyeshadow, glossy lips, just enough liner and mascara to accentuate.

A knock interrupts my final touches. I grab my jacket and purse, hurrying downstairs.

Adrian stands there, devastating as ever, holding a vase of tulips.

He lets out a low whistle, raking his gaze over me. "Well, damn. I might need to start a fight tonight just to remind everyone you're mine."

I roll my eyes, ignoring the heat in my cheeks. "Tulips? And you brought your own vase?"

He kisses me lightly as I take the flowers. "Wanted to surprise you. And you only had that one vase."

Father glances up from the living room. "Adrian." His eyes flick to the tulips, then back. "Interesting choice."

Adrian smirks. "Yes, sir."

I look between them. "Do tulips mean something?"

Father turns back to the TV without answering. Adrian kisses me again, murmuring, "Maybe."

Shaking my head, I set the vase on the counter before calling goodnight to Father.

Adrian laces his fingers through mine, leading me outside. "So where—"

He pins me against the car, kissing me hard. My hands tangle in his hair, pulling him closer until he groans against my mouth. When he pulls back, his eyes are dark. "Delicious."

I smirk. "Must be the lip gloss."

"Definitely not the gloss," he growls.

The drive passes in comfortable silence, his hand warm on my thigh. Then he says, "We're dining at Celestia tonight."

My breath catches. Celestia—the most exclusive restaurant in the territory.

I glance down at my outfit. "Am I dressed okay?"

Adrian looks unfairly perfect in a sapphire button-down, sleeves rolled to reveal crisp white cuffs, untucked over black slacks. His usually tied-back hair falls loose tonight, framing his sharp jawline.

He squeezes my hand. "You're breathtaking."

Celestia lives up to its name. Twinkling lights weave through ancient trees, transforming the clearing into something magical. Soft music floats through the air, blending with the rustle of leaves. Through floor-to-ceiling windows, candlelight flickers across intimate tables, the dim glow ensuring privacy despite the crowd.

It feels like stepping into a dream.