Chapter 0213

"No. It's considered a romantic place, and honestly, I don't do romance. I've visited alone a few times—sat at the bar, listened to music. Once, Nathaniel and I stopped by for steaks after working late."

"Why bring me here then?"

"Isn't it obvious, Seraphina?" She shakes her head.

"I'm trying to prove something. That there's more to me than the beast you saw earlier." She studies me for a long moment before glancing at the menu.

"What do you recommend?"

"If you trust me, I'll order for us both."

She closes the menu. "Surprise me."

I grin as the waitress approaches. I select a bottle of wine and starters. Hoping today's training worked up her appetite, I plan to share a steak and potatoes with her.

"I have a question," she says. "Fair warning—you won't like it."

I take her hands. "Ask me anything. We might not like each other's answers, but we'll be honest."

She nods, staring at our joined hands. "Would you let me see Victor?"

My body locks up. My jaw clenches so hard the muscle twitches.

"Why?" The word comes out rough. I force control. "You might not realize he kidnapped Evelyn and tried to force a mark on her. Meeting him puts you in danger."

"You'd be with me the whole time," she counters, holding my gaze.

I don't want her near that killer. I should've ended him when I had the chance.

The wine arrives, giving me a moment to think. Before diving back into that conversation, I raise my glass.

"To new beginnings. Together."

She taps her glass to mine. "Together."

Damn. I might've just trapped myself.

I exhale. "Tell me why you want to see him."

"Gregory and Evelyn told me about Valeria's Guardian lineage today—the strengths the Fae King documented. But they didn't mention one ability Valeria has: scenting lies. That's another reason I'm giving us a chance. I knew everything you said earlier was true. If you'd lied, I'd have smelled it."

This changes things. I'm glad she trusts my honesty, but how does this help with Victor?

She leans in. "I can confirm when he's lying. If he tried to force-mark a Guardian, he knows we have abilities beyond regular wolves. He'll know I can detect his lies." She tightens her grip. "You need closure. This way, you'll have proof he's guilty."

"You stay by my side. Promise me."

"I promise. I have zero interest in being forced-marked."

The appetizers arrive, and I order our mains.

When I turn back, she asks, "Tell me about your company. You said you run a business in the human city?"

"Yes." I explain the company structure, our two divisions, my role as CEO, and how it funds the pack. She listens intently, asking thoughtful questions. It hits me—no one's ever cared about my life beyond me being Alpha. People usually want something. Sharing this with her, having her genuinely listen... it feels different.