“Mr. Calvin,” she said, tilting her head slightly, letting the sunlight catch her hair, “it’s such an honor to meet you.”

Her gaze lingered a fraction longer than necessary, a teasing sparkle in her eyes as she extended her hand.

Calvin’s gaze slid past her, locked on Cleopatra as he shook Lila’s hand once, firm but distracted.

“The honor’s mine,” he said smoothly, his attention clearly elsewhere.

“Please excuse me.”Calvin said smoothly.

Without another word, he walked down the aisle and settled beside Cleopatra, the subtle authority in his movements drawing attention without effort.

“Why didn’t you text me? You’re still going on this trip,” he asked, his tone calm...