Rachel POV
Dinner was already laid out when Leo and I took our seats at the long dining table. Staff moved quietly around us, placing plates with practised ease, and another tray was lowered for Scout, who wagged her tail as her food was set down.
Leo talked animatedly as he ate, telling me about his day, and I listened, smiling softly-until I heard footsteps.
Damien entered the dining hall.
He looked exhausted.
His white sleeves were rolled up as he unbuttoned his shirt collar, dark hair slightly dishevelled, the weight of a long day evident in his posture. His gaze met mine immediately, and he crossed the room without hesitation.
He leaned down, close enough that only I could hear him.
"Could you sleep in my room again tonight?" he murmured, voice low and tired. "It's been a long
