Chapter 236

Zavian’s features softened infinitesimally. “You don’t need to protect me, little one,” he murmured, caressing the delicate curve of her cheekbone with infinite tenderness. “Shielding you from harm is my greatest privilege.”

The undisguised adoration in his expression slowly unwound the knot of tension coiling in Emmeline’s belly until she sagged trustingly against the solid plane of his chest with a shuddering exhalation.

“Every decision, every action I take is carefully calculated,” Zavian assured her in that rich, mellifluous timbre. “Keeping our date means maintaining the illusion that everything is still status quo between us. Do you understand?”

Emmeline nodded meekly and peered up at him through the fan of her lashes.

“When everyone else heads out for their activities, meet me at the cable car station.”

“Noted!” she mumbled.

The ghost of a smile curved Zavian’s lips. “Good girl.”

With that, he slanted his mouth over hers in a soul-sea