The Witch's Guide to Dating

A Dinner with Alexander Pt.2

Harper couldn't shake the feeling that Alexander knew more about her recent events than he let on. She decided to confront him.

"Alexander, did you know where I was after Jasper's attack?" she asked, looking into his eyes.

Alexander took a sip of his wine before answering. "Yes, I did. It's important for me to know where my betrothed is at all times, especially after such a traumatic experience."

Harper frowned. "And why would you have me watched?"

Alexander took her hand and gave it a gentle squeeze. "Harper, as the future leader of my coven, it's my responsibility to protect those close to me. And with the recent attack, it was imperative that I knew where you were and who you were with."

Harper didn't like the sound of that, but Alexander continued before she could voice her objections.

"As for Landon, I understand that you needed time to recover and recuperate after the attack. I'm glad that he was there for you."

Harper couldn't help but feel a twinge of guilt. "Alexander, I should have told you about Landon. I just didn't know how you would react."

Alexander smiled reassuringly. "There's no need to apologize, Harper. We'll work through everything together."

Alexander chuckled. "Harper, I don't expect you to give up your lovers just because we're getting bonded. Landon is a good ally to have and I'm glad he was there for you when you needed someone. I trust you, Harper, and I trust that you'll make the right choices for both of us."

Harper was taken aback by Alexander's nonchalance. She had expected jealousy or possessiveness, but instead, he was calm and understanding.

Harper nervously twirled her fork in her hands as she musterd up the courage to bring up the subject that's been on her mind for the past few minutes.

"Alexander, I have to be honest with you," Harper began, her voice a little shaky. "I'm not sure where I stand with you. I know we're supposed to be engaged, but I don't really know what that means. I want to understand what you expect from me and what our relationship is going to be like."

Alexander leans back in his chair, a small smile playing on his lips. "I understand your concerns, Harper. Our engagement is a formality, a way to publicly announce our union. I don't expect you to give up your life, your passions or your lovers just because we're engaged."

Harper's eyes widened in surprise. "My lovers?" she asked, unsure if she heard him correctly.

Alexander nods, his expression serious. "Yes, Harper. I don't expect you to be celibate just because we're engaged or bonded. I understand that you have needs and desires, and I don't want to stand in the way of that. As long as you're discreet, I have no issues with you seeing other people. I expect the same courtesy from you, regarding my liaisons."

Harper took in Alexander's words. "Really?" she asked, still a little uncertain.

Alexander reaches across the table and takes her hand. "Really, Harper. I want you to be happy, and if that means being with someone else, then so be it. Multiple partners are hardly something to bat an eye at. I just ask that you always return to my bed in the end, and be carefulwith your contraception. Our union is meant to be an alliance between our covens, after all. It wouldn't do to have a child out of wedlock."

Harper nods, slowly, digesting the information. "Thank you, Alexander. I appreciate your honesty."

Alexander smiles back at her. "Of course, Harper. I just want you to understand that our relationship doesn't have to change who you are or what you want. If either of us finds someone who will be a more permanent romantic partner, then we can discuss this again to figure out how we can incorporate them into this relationship."

Harper nodded, relieved that Alexander was being upfront with her. She took a sip of her own drink, lemonade, and looked out at the beautiful scenic view.

"Yes, that makes sense. I appreciate your honesty, Alexander. I just wanted to be clear on where we stand."

"I think it's important to be clear with each other, Harper. I value our relationship and I want it to be based on trust and honesty." Alexander said as he reached across the table to take her hand. "Now, let's enjoy the rest of this beautiful evening and not let these discussions weigh us down."

Alexander smoothly shifted the conversation to more lighthearted topics, showing his playful side. He started to flirt with Harper, complimenting her on her looks and her intelligence. Harper felt her cheeks flush with warmth as Alexander leaned in close, his breath caressing her ear as he whispered compliments and sweet nothings.