Ava That night, Chris took me on what was perhaps one of the best dates I had ever been on. First, we went to one of the finest restaurants in the city. Chandeliers dripping with crystals hung from the vaulted ceilings, casting the entire establishment in a warm, golden, intimate sort of glow. W
Once again, Chris’s mere presence secured us the finest table, our drinks regularly refreshed without so much as having to ask. I tried not to stare too hard at the staff scrambling to fulfill our every whim—or consider how their meager wages might pay for our indulgences. However, as the night
Ava The cool marble of the bench chilled the backs of my legs as I sat with Chris in the sculpture garden, compelling me to nuzzle into him ever so slightly. We sat in silence, just taking in the view. “Well?” Chris asked. “What do you think?” I paused for a moment, then turned and reached up
“Chris…” “I know, I know,” he said with a wave of his hand. “Too much, too soon. But can you blame me for being excited? I want to be with you, Ava.” “I know you do.” I swallowed and set my jaw, looking away momentarily. “But… I don’t think I could ever live here permanently. This world is extra
Ava The docks were buzzing with activity as Chris and I hurried toward the growing crowd, our rapid footsteps echoing against the weathered wooden planks. A ferry had just docked, and a steady stream of passengers was stepping off of it. Werewolves from the human continent—those who had come to
Chris merely arched an unimpressed brow. “You’re fully entitled to your opinion, Elder Elise,” he said coolly with a polite dip of his head. “But if I recall correctly, you all agreed to this. Begrudgingly, perhaps, but you did agree.” “Perhaps. But you must admit we never expected an influx of th
Ava “A judge?” Chris asked almost incredulously, punctuating the question with a laugh. “No. You’re out of your mind if you think I would allow that.” With that, Chris continued up the stairs and brushed past Olivia. I silently followed suit, giving her a wide berth—I wasn’t about to give her a
Ava The village square was alive with the sounds of excited chatter and lively music, the scent of fresh fruit, vegetables, and grilled meats floating through the air. I surveyed the scene from my vantage point beside Chris, watching as the newly arrived contestants mingled and conversed animatedl