Emily’s POV
The knock on my door came just after sunset. I wasn’t expecting anyone — not after the whirlwind emotions of the past twenty-four hours. I hesitated, then opened it.
Damien stood there.
He looked… different. His dark hair was slicked back, not in its usual messy waves. He wore a dark royal-blue shirt with gold embroidery along the collar, and his scent — warm spice and cedar — was stronger than I remembered.
“You’re dressed up,” I said cautiously.
He offered a small, nervous smile. “I came to take you out. On a proper date.”
I blinked, startled.
“Unless you don’t want to,” he added quickly, eyes searching mine.
I opened the door wider. “Give me ten minutes.”
The carriage ride was quiet, but not awkward. He held his hands clasped in his lap, eyes watching me more than t
