Page 50 of Stars in Halo

He was striking not only because of his physical beauty but also because of his aura, gravitas, and commanding presence.

Likewise, how his eyes cut to hers and creased on the edges with pleasure at the sight of the breakfast.

She found herself wishing this escapade or whateverthefokk this was between them never ended.

‘Me too,’ she heard his deep voice drawl.

She glanced up with surprise.

‘Did I just say that out loud?’

‘You did.’

She clapped a hand to her mouth. ‘I’m so -’

Xion waggled a finger in front of her face. ‘Don’t apologise, I’m enjoying this pressure-free time with you too. It doesn’t have to end, you know. We can keep going. I’m my boss, and I suppose you are, too. I can take one more day to see Enia. After all, why come all this way and not take in the sights?’

She nodded, then glanced at the window view, wondering if Korin would comply with her request to keep the fokk away.

When she sliced her eyes back to Xion, she found his gaze narrowed on her, and for a moment, those mocha-jade babies iced over.

She jolted, speculating whether he knew anything of the Serpent’s Iris and her involvement in its disappearance.

When his eyes heated up once more as they rested on her face, she forgot her momentary troubles and relaxed into his mesmerising presence.

They sat down to eat together. ‘How about we explore Enia?’ Xion suggested, forking buttery eggs into his mouth. ‘Show me around the so-called city of lights.’

She conceded with a smile. ‘Shouldn’t be a hardship. I’ll be happy to introduce you to the illuminated capital of Rhesia. This place is almost my second home.’

Soon, they cleared their plates, dressed and exited The Grande, walking out into Enia’s most stunning botanical gardens.

They strolled its avenues and lingered at its flower beds, overflowing with bio-luminescent blooms.

Next, they wandered into the metropolis, visiting all the famous landmarks and delving into Rhesian culture, art and nature.

Katya led Xion through the bustling streets, their arms brushing against each other as they weaved through the crowds. At one point, Xion took her hand when they crossed a teeming street.

After that, they held hands every chance they got, and he revelled in their occasional touches, which created a delicious sense of closeness and intimacy.

Xion conceded he was having the time of his life as he and Katya meandered arm in arm.

They explored the city’s iconic locations, from Enia’s Light Tower to The Temple of Illumination and the Rhesian Museum of Art.

The streets were lined with cobblestones, smooth from years of foot traffic. The sun shone bright, and the occasional breeze rustled their clothes and brushed their hair, carrying a hint of salt from the nearby ocean.

It was almost too perfect.

Katya even took Xion to her favourite café for a late lunch, where they indulged in baked quiche, a fresh salad, and frothy, aromatic kahawa while they people-watched.

The city was alive with conversations, music playing, and laughter echoing through the streets.

Katya’s voice was a soft thread in the symphony of noise, explaining the history and culture. It was the most relaxed the Rider had been in years.

It helped he wasn’t in his element, where vigilance over its security was his mantle. Here, he didn’t have to watch over anyone except the alluring woman by his side.

They stopped at a food cart, and Katya insisted on trying traditional Rhesian fare. The essences bursting in Xion’s mouth were sweet, spicy, and savoury all at once.

As the day waned, Katya took Xion to a popular rooftop restaurant.

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