Chapter 43

"We strangely get along when you aren't answering me with one word or keeping silent," Althea said, her tone teasing as she looked at Darian. They had finished their meal, and she felt content and relaxed in his company.

Darian chuckled, the moonlight casting a soft glow on his face. "I guess it takes a special kind of magic to bring out my chatty side."

Althea smirked. "Or maybe it's just me. I have a way with words, you know."

He turned to her, tucking a strand of her hair behind her ear. "That you do."

She couldn't help but be drawn into his warm gaze, feeling her heart race a little. "So, your royal majesty, what's the plan for tonight?"

Darian's chuckle was warm as he gently held her hand and guided her toward a winding staircase that led to a high window. "Tonight, my plan is simple. We're going stargazing."

Althea's eyes widened. "Stargazing? How are we going to do that?"