Chapter 88: An Unexpected Proposal (Elara's POV) I stared at Lucian, my mind struggling to process his words. Had he just suggested marking a mate? Here? Now? The room suddenly felt too warm, and I was acutely aware of how close he sat to me on my small couch. The subtle scent of his Alpha presence mingled with the moon-blessed wine, creating an intoxicating atmosphere that made it difficult to think clearly. My face burned, not from shyness as he might assume, but from embarrassment. What was the appropriate response to an Alpha King suggesting he might mark a mate right now? Agree? Laugh it off? Express outrage? None seemed right. The silence stretched between us, becoming increasingly uncomfortable with each passing second. I focused on the rim of my wine glass, tracing it with

