Chapter 191

"Oh, sorry, Dad. I thought you said that session was only moved," Victoria murmured, her fingers nervously twisting the hem of her sweater. "I told her the session had been rescheduled. But when she arrived, she said she wasn’t feeling well and left. That’s all I know..."

A cold knot formed in my stomach, but Victoria had no reason to lie to me. I forced a nod. "Alright," I said quietly. "Thanks. I’m having dinner with Celeste tonight, so I won’t be back until later."

"Of course, Dad," Victoria replied, her eyes brightening with mischief. "Have fun!"

I brushed past her and headed upstairs to change. Within the hour, we were ready to leave. Celeste had transformed into a vision in a deep crimson dress that clung to her slender frame, accentuating every curve. The deliberate display irritated me more than I cared to admit.

Before leaving, I shot Lillian another text, telling her I hoped she felt better and to call if she needed anything. I wouldn’t mind dropping by with medicine or food—but the message remained unanswered, tightening the unease in my chest.

I shouldn’t be this concerned about her. It wasn’t like me. Yet, even as I sat across from Celeste in the dimly lit restaurant, Lillian’s absence gnawed at me.

"Alpha Sebastian, you seem distracted," Celeste remarked, swirling her wineglass with elegant fingers. She took a slow sip, her gaze sharp. "Everything alright?"

"Just a lot on my mind," I muttered, mirroring her gesture. "Work has been overwhelming lately."

"I completely understand," she purred, fluttering her lashes. "I’ve been swamped too. But it’s lovely to escape for a while, isn’t it? Thank you for bringing me here. This place is exquisite—just what I needed. And I’m sure you needed the break too, being such a busy Lycan."

I nodded absently.

"It’s good to step away from work for once," I lied.

In reality, this dinner felt like another obligation—one far more tedious than my usual duties. But voicing that would only complicate things, so I kept the truth to myself. She seemed satisfied, relaxing into her seat with a pleased smile.

"I’m so glad you feel that way," she murmured, reaching across the table to brush her fingers over my wrist. "Because I was hoping we could spend more time together."

I withdrew my hand subtly and leaned back, taking another sip of wine.

"Free time is rare for me," I said flatly. "I can’t promise anything."

"I’m busy too," she admitted, undeterred. "But I’d make time for you. Tonight has been wonderful, and I think you’ve enjoyed yourself as well. We could have a little fun, get to know each other better. Two overworked souls finding solace in each other’s company."

Before I could respond, the waiter arrived with our meals. The conversation died there, replaced by the clink of silverware against porcelain. I prayed she’d let it go—but as we exited the restaurant, she seized my hand, her grip firm.

"I don’t want the night to end," she whispered, pressing closer until her body brushed against mine. "How about a walk under the stars? It’s been ages since I’ve been on a proper date, and—"

I stepped back, forcing her to release me.

"This wasn’t a date, Celeste," I said, sharper than intended. "I’m sorry if you misunderstood, but—"

"Of course not," she cut in smoothly, though her smile faltered. "But I’d hoped it might become one. I’m not blind, Sebastian. I knew this wasn’t a date when we started, but there’s clearly something between us."

"At best, this was a casual outing," I said, my frown deepening.

She opened her mouth to argue—but a sudden flash of light silenced her. We turned to find two photographers aiming their lenses at us.

"Celeste Devereaux! Are you and Alpha Blackwood dating?"

"Celeste, who designed that stunning dress?"

"Is this a romantic relationship, or just friendship?"

Celeste froze, as did I. I expected her to shut it down, to reiterate what we’d just discussed—so when she suddenly wrapped her arms around my neck, I barely had time to react.

She flashed the cameras a dazzling smile, winked—and then kissed me.