Dove pov
Plus, I hold no resentment toward Ciella. She knows Varian far better than me, and is naturally going to do what she can to protect her wife.
"Can we talk some more later? Before everyone gets super drunk?" She asks softly.
"Sure." I nod. "Enjoy your dinner with your wife."
"Thank you. And don't worry, I've seated Varian on the other end of the table." She looks down the table for him, but he isn't in view. She frowns, but shakes her head.
"I appreciate that," I tell her anyway.
She gives me shoulder one last pat before she walks off to take her seat. I adjust my place setting, moving to the side so I server can fill my glass with more wine.
Just as I shift back into place, Varian slides into the empty seat to the right of me. I jump at his sudden and unexpected presence.
