After hours of walking around, shaking hands, exchanging pleasantries, and greeting guests from every corner of the kingdom, Dahlia finally felt the weight of exhaustion settle over her the moment the door to Azriel's study closed behind them. The soft click of the lock signaled the end of the evening's social obligations, and it was as though a wave of relief washed over her.
She had been charming, poised, and perfectly in control all night—but now, as she stepped away from the door and let out a deep breath, it was impossible to hold up the façade any longer.
"You look exhausted," Azriel said with a quiet chuckle, the smile tugging at the corners of his lips as he closed the distance between them. His voice was warm, soft—gentle in a way that only he could make it. He surveyed her with that knowing look, his gaze lingering for a moment longer than usual.
