Ryan had chosen the perfect setting—an exclusive rooftop garden, nestled above the city, bathed in the gentle glow of the full moon. White roses bloomed in elegant clusters, their petals glowing like pale ghosts under the night sky. The atmosphere was serene, untouched by the outside world, just as he had planned.
A candlelit dinner was arranged with precision, every detail catering to Emily's preferences. Delicate dishes, carefully selected wines—nothing was left to chance. Kia had given him a thorough rundown of Emily's tastes, and he had made sure everything was flawless.
As Emily took in the breathtaking setup, a quiet murmur stirred within her mind.
*"Suspicious."* Mira's voice was laced with skepticism.
Ivy agreed. *"How does he know so much? This isn't normal."*
Despite their cautious observations, neither alter pushed for a switch. They watched, waiting, analyzing—but for now, they allowed Emily to enjoy herself.
And she did.
As the evening unfolded, Emily found herself talking more than she expected. Ryan had a way of drawing her in, of making her feel seen. His attentiveness, his ease in conversation—it was intoxicating in a way she wasn't used to.
For the first time in a long while, she let herself relax. Let herself laugh.
Ryan, meanwhile, took in every moment with quiet satisfaction. She was here, with him, and that was all that mattered.
Tonight was only the beginning.