Her cheeks flushed delicately.
A shy smile appeared on her lips.
Caleb noticed immediately.
He had seen this before.
Many times.
After brief introductions from the council members, the conversation began flowing easily again.
Yet Caleb found his attention drifting.
Because Sonia kept glancing at him.
Subtle.
Polite.
But unmistakable.
Her posture shifted slightly closer whenever he spoke.
Her smile deepened when their eyes met.
And during one moment when the others were discussing something among themselves, she leaned slightly toward him and spoke in a softer tone.
“I’ve heard a lot about you, Your Highness.”
Her voice carried a hint of admiration.
Caleb maintained his neutral expression.
“Have you?”
She nodded gently, lowering her gaze briefly in what appeared to be mode
