Kael stood in the grand meeting chamber of his manor, the heavy wooden doors closing behind him with a faint thud.
The room was bathed in the golden light of the afternoon sun streaming through the tall, arched windows.
A large oak table dominated the space, its polished surface reflecting the faint flicker of the fireplace in the corner.
Lady Calista was already seated at the head of the table, her hands folded neatly in front of her.
She looked entirely at ease, her emerald gown catching the light as her piercing gray eyes tracked Kael's movements.
She exuded confidence, but Kael wasn't intimidated.
This was his territory, and he wasn't going to let her dictate terms without resistance.
"Lady Calista," Kael said as he took his seat across from her. "I trust you've found your accommodations to your liking."