Lucian’s POV

“You are as dashing as they say,” Vienna playfully tucked a strand of her hair behind her ear, her hazel eyes gleaming under the sun’s rays.

We strolled through the grand mansion, and although I attempted to smile, I couldn’t shake off the perplexity that clouded my thoughts. Was she truly my destined mate? The aroma of her presence indicated so, yet something felt amiss.

“You flatter me, my lady,” I uttered, and she giggled, her laughter betraying the shyness I had expected. She appeared fearful in the cave where we first met, but now she exuded unwavering confidence.

“Your garden is truly splendid,” I remarked, admiring the...