Page 30 of Quick on the Claw

When they parted, Tiffany sighed. “I definitely made the right choice coming here if Nova Auroran royals kiss this way.”

Zak chuckled and pressed a kiss to her forehead. “I assure you, that was all Zak, not Nova Aurora. Though I’m glad you approve.”

They stayed on the cliff for a while longer, trading soft kisses and quiet conversation. As the night grew cooler, Zak wrapped Tiffany in his cloak, the gesture both protective and intimate.

The walk back to the palace was filled with a comfortable silence, broken only by occasional bursts of laughter or quiet observations. They walked hand in hand, the physical connection mirroring the emotional bond between them.

At the palace, Zak surprised Tiffany with a private dinner in a secluded corner of the gardens. Soft lights twinkled in the trees, casting a romantic glow over the intimate setting.

As they ate, Tiffany found herself continually amazed by how attentive Zak was. He listened intently to her ideas, asking thoughtful questions and genuinely valuing her input. They discussed everything from Earth’s history to Nova Aurora’s politics, their conversation flowing easily from topic to topic.

“You know,” Tiffany said, taking a sip of the sweet Nova Auroran wine, “I never thought I’d be discussing educational reform with an alien king over dinner. My life has taken a decidedly unexpected turn.”

Zak chuckled, his eyes twinkling with amusement. “And how do you find this unexpected turn?”

Tiffany pretended to consider for a moment. “Well, the food’s better than Earth’s, the scenery is out of this world - literally - and the company...” she gave him a coy smile, “is definitely an improvement over my usual Friday night dates.”

“I’m glad to hear it,” Zak replied, reaching across the table to take her hand. “Your presence here has been... transformative, Tiffany. Not just for me, but for the kingdom as well. Your fresh perspective, your passion for education - it’s inspiring.”

Warmth spread through her chest at his words. “I’m glad I can help. Though I have to say, you’re pretty inspiring yourself. The way you care for your people and how hard you work to make things better... it’s amazing.”

Their eyes met, and for a moment, the rest of the world faded away. Tiffany found herself leaning in, drawn by an invisible force. Zak met her halfway, their lips coming together in a kiss that was soft and sweet, full of unspoken emotions.

As they parted, Zak’s expression turned slightly nervous. “I have something for you,” he said, reaching into his pocket. “I hope you don’t think it’s too forward, but...”

He pulled out a small box, opening it to reveal a stunning necklace. The pendant was a beautifully cut gemstone that seemed to glow from within, its colors shifting like the aurora borealis.

“Oh, Zak,” Tiffany breathed, her eyes wide. “It’s beautiful.”

“It’s made from a crystal that’s unique to Nova Aurora,” Zak explained, his voice soft. “They say it takes on the energy of the wearer, becoming a reflection of their spirit. I thought... well, I thought it suited you.”

Tiffany was speechless, overwhelmed by the thoughtfulness of the gift and the emotion behind it. “I love it,” she finally managed, her voice thick with emotion. “Thank you.”

Zak’s smile was warm as he fastened the necklace around her neck. His fingers lingered on her skin, sending a shiver down her spine. “It looks perfect on you,” he murmured.

As the evening wound down, Tiffany found herself reluctant to say goodnight once again. Every moment with Zak felt precious, and she wasn’t ready for this magical day to end.

At her door, Zak pulled her close, pressing a soft kiss to her forehead. “Sweet dreams, Tiffany,” he murmured. “I’ll see you in the morning.”

Tiffany leaned into his embrace, savoring the warmth and security she felt in his arms. “Goodnight, Zak. Thank you for today. It was... perfect.”

With one last lingering kiss, they parted. Tiffany closed her door behind her, leaning against it with a dreamy sigh. Her hand came up to touch the necklace, its gentle warmth a reminder of Zak’s affection.

As she prepared for bed, Tiffany’s mind whirled with the events of the day. The magical glade, the peaceful lake, the breathtaking sunset - each memory was tinged with the warmth of Zak’s presence, his laughter, his touch.

She thought back to her conversation with Sia that morning. “When you’re in love, you never want to be away from that person,” her cousin had said. Lying in bed, her fingers absently tracing the contours of her new necklace, Tiffany realized that she already missed Zak, even though they’d parted only minutes ago.

The realization both thrilled and terrified her. She’d known Zak for such a short time, yet he’d already become such an integral part of her world. Was this what falling in love felt like? This mix of excitement and fear, of joy and vulnerability?

Tiffany closed her eyes, letting the events of the day wash over her once more. Zak’s laughter as they chased glowing butterflies, the warmth of his arms around her as they watched the sunset, the way his eyes softened when he looked at her...

As sleep began to claim her, Tiffany felt a sense of peace settle over her. Whatever this was between her and Zak, wherever it might lead, she knew one thing for certain - she was exactly where she was meant to be.

A knock had her jumping out of bed and opening the door. “Zak, what?—”

He picked her up in his arms and kissed her, cutting off her question. “I won’t sleep unless you’re with me. So the question is your bed or mine?”

She blinked. “What?”

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