Ahicia watched as he turned to leave, his presence still dominating the room despite his retreating form. Just as he reached the door, she spoke, her voice steady and tinged with curiosity.
"Wait," she said, pushing herself up slightly against the pillows. "You never told me your name."
He paused, one hand resting on the doorknob. Slowly, he turned to face her, his golden eyes gleaming in the dim light of the room. A faint smile played on his lips, enigmatic and unreadable.
"Names have power," he replied, his voice low and smooth. "Why do you want mine?"
Ahicia tilted her head, letting a playful smirk curl her lips. "Because it's only fair. You seem to know a lot about me, after all."
He considered her for a moment, his gaze intense but not unkind. "Damian," he said at last. "Now, rest. You'll need your strength."
With that, he opened the door and stepped out, leaving her alone in the lavish room. Moments later, two maids entered, their heads bowed respectfully. They carried fresh linens, a basin of warm water, and an array of fine clothing that Ahicia immediately recognized as far more luxurious than anything she owned.
"Miss," one of them said softly, setting the items down on a nearby table. "The Alpha has instructed us to assist you in preparing for dinner."
Ahicia arched a brow, leaning back against the headboard. "Dinner?"
The other maid nodded, keeping her gaze respectfully lowered. "Yes, miss. He's requested your presence."
Ahicia's mind raced as she processed this new development. Dinner with Damian? It wasn't an invitation; it was a command. Still, she had no intention of playing the role of a helpless guest. If he wanted her at his table, she would ensure she held her own.
She sighed dramatically, waving a hand toward the clothing. "Fine. Let's get this over with."
The maids exchanged a brief glance before moving efficiently to assist her. They helped her wash and dressed her in an elegant yet understated gown, its dark fabric complementing her complexion and enhancing her natural allure. When they were finished, one of them stepped back, a hint of pride in her expression.
"You look lovely, miss," she said softly.
Ahicia caught her reflection in the mirror and smirked. "Not bad," she murmured. "Let's see if the Alpha is as good a host as he is a rescuer."
The maids didn't respond, instead bowing slightly before stepping out of the room to give her privacy. Alone once more, Ahicia took a deep breath, steeling herself for the next phase of this strange and dangerous game