Across the room, I spotted Elijah and Elena at the bar, their posture alert as they watched our approach. They presented a striking couple—him powerful and commanding, her graceful and perceptive. The protective stance of a pack Alpha was evident in the set of Elijah's shoulders as we drew near.
"Your Majesty," he greeted, the formal address at odds with the personal assessment in his gaze. Beside him, Elena offered a warm smile that held a knowing glint.
"Elijah," I responded, deliberately using his name rather than title. "Elena. I trust you enjoyed your evening?"
"Very much so," Elena replied, her eyes flicking briefly to Emma. "The gardens here are particularly lovely."
Emma released my arm, moving slightly closer to her brother. "Stop interrogating him with your eyes, Eli," she sa
