Thea was dumbfounded, her retort dying in her throat.
Theo let out a soft snort at her dazed expression. This time, he did not surge ahead to leave her in his dust, but adjusted his stride to walk side-by-side with her, their shoulders nearly brushing.
They arrived at the pre-booked suite. Inside, a round marble table groaned under the weight of exotic delicacies and treasures. Candles flickered, and the air was thick with the scent of blooming flowers, creating a romantic, den-like atmosphere more suited for a mating ritual than a negotiation.
The guests had not yet arrived.
Thea looked at the arrangement with growing confusion and nervously reminded him, "Theodore, these blossoms carry specific biological messages. I fear they are inappropriate for a territorial parley."
Theo tilted
