He gestured grandly toward the towering gate behind her, the words "Throne of Gods" gleaming in the light.
"Look at this place. I leave for a few... years, perhaps, and you've turned my humble creation into a divine sanctuary. I would say you've got my knack for making things extraordinary."
Seraphine rolled her eyes, though she couldn't quite hide her smile or the pleased flush that colored her cheeks at his praise.
"Flattery won't get you past this gate, Father," she said, stepping forward to match his boldness.
Now they stood close enough that Julian could see the faint golden flecks in her blue eyes. Close enough that her scent—that intoxicating blend of flowers and power—filled his senses completely.
"You may have created this world," she continued, her voice firm, "but I've been guarding it. And I don't let just anyone waltz in, not even sly, charming fathers who think they can sweet-talk their way through."
