Dawnreach

MORE THAN A DECADE AGO

"An apprentice?" Evelynn let out a dismissive snort, her eyes filled with defiance. "Do I look like I need an apprentice?" she retorted, challenging Ronaldo's suggestion.

Ronaldo's grip tightened as he pulled her closer, his voice earnest. "It's not about whether you need one or not," he explained. "You've been locked away in this room, consumed by your research. Isn't it time you found someone to assist you?"

An eyebrow arched in skepticism, Evelynn attempted to break free from his grasp, but his strength held her in place. A wry smile played on her lips as she mused, "Is this just your way of wanting more of my time?"

He met her gaze, unyielding. "And what if it is?" he countered.

A flicker of warning entered Evelynn's voice. "You have a wife, remember?"

"She's not you," Ronaldo pressed, attempting to kiss her, only to have his advances halted by her palm against his lips. "She can never be you."