Chapter 0113

My envy toward Rosalind evaporates instantly. It's impossible to resent someone who's clearly suffering because of my presence.

When Adrian inquires about my deepest secret, my mind blanks. There must be other private things about me, but right now, all I can focus on is him. The way his scent wraps around me, the heat of his gaze. So I take the plunge and confess about this being my first date, bracing for mockery.

Instead, his eyes light up. His words about this being the first of many shared experiences send Selene purring in my mind. She's already smitten. I'm still guarded - his notorious past lingers in my thoughts like storm clouds. This tender version of Adrian seems unreal, and I need to protect my heart.

Then he licks my palm.

Suddenly, I understand why people obsess over appetizers.

When Rosalind returns, I glance at Adrian. "What's good here?"

His smile could power a city. "You already tasted my favorite. Filet and lobster." My cheeks warm remembering my gift to him.

I turn to Rosalind. "Any specials tonight?"

She pales slightly. "We have Wagyu Beef Chateaubriand for two."

"Perfect," Adrian declares before I can respond. His fingers brush mine as he adds, "Choose your sides, Evelyn. They're à la carte."

"I trust you, Alpha." The wattage of his smile could blind someone as he orders.

Once we're alone, I steer the conversation back. "Your turn. Tell me something no one knows about you."

He tucks a loose strand behind my ear, fingertips lingering. "I've never brought anyone here except family."

That shocks me. The candlelight, the wine, the intimate booth - this place screams romance.

"Why?" I whisper.

His brow furrows. "Why what?"

"Why me?" The question bursts out. If this is just about the Guardian bond, why the roses and soft touches? Selene and I are falling fast, but I need to know if this is real before we plunge over the emotional cliff.

"Don't you see?" His thumb traces my jaw. "You're extraordinary, Evelyn. And I plan to spend every day proving it to you."

There's no stopping the freefall now. My stomach swoops as our food arrives, saving me from responding.

Dinner flows easier after that. The Wagyu melts like butter, and Theodora's mate Leopold visits our table.

"Did you cook this masterpiece?" I ask, remembering his incredible lunch.

His chest puffs with pride. "Every bite. Enjoying it?"

We shower him with praise until Theodora appears, beaming at her husband. "This restaurant was all his vision," she boasts.

Leopold kisses her temple. "But it's my fierce mate who made the dream come true." The love between them is palpable.