Page 40 of A Roar for Magic

“I’d like that,” she said softly, rewarded by the way his eyes lit up. “Though I should probably leave Poe at home. He has a habit of providing running commentary on my love life to anyone who’ll listen.”

“They’ll love you.” He pulled out her chair with old-world courtesy.

“Sure, they will.”

“Grandmother Ilaria is already half in love with you from your scented candles.”

“With the number you and she have bought, I don’t think she’ll need any for the next year.”

Their laughter filled the warm space, and Clover felt something in her chest loosen. This was easy. Natural. Like they’d been sharing meals and teasing conversation for years instead of days.

“So what’s this famous dinner you promised?” She watched him move confidently around the kitchen, the sight of such a powerful alpha doing something so ordinary making her magic hum with contentment.

“Steak with garlic butter, loaded mashed potatoes, and a salad that my mother swears is the key to winning a mate’s heart.” He glanced up with a grin. “Though I’m hoping my charm and good looks help too.”

“Depends on how good the steak is.”

His laugh rumbled through the space. “High standards. I like that.”

Throughout dinner, she found herself relaxing more and more. He told stories about growing up with Banner and how much he loved Sabine when she was born. Having a little sister really helped him feel more grounded and adult. She shared memories of her fun times with Romi and Thane and the silly things they did for fun.

“So where’s the most interesting place you’ve traveled?” she asked, savoring the perfectly cooked steak. “For business or pleasure.”

His eyes lit up. “Thailand. I spent a month there last year scouting locations for a new condo building. The beaches in Phuket...” He shook his head, smiling. “Nothing compares to those sunsets.”

“You’ve been to Phuket?” Clover straightened with interest. “I spent two weeks there studying local healing herbs. Did youvisit that little night market near the beach? The one with the elderly witch who makes those incredible dumplings?”

“With the green chili sauce that literally sparkles?” His grin widened. “I think I ate there every night for a week.”

“Me too! And the mango sticky rice...”

“That changes flavor based on your mood.”

They shared a laugh, and Clover felt another wall crumble. “What about Japan? Please tell me you’ve tried the Wagyu in Tokyo.”

“At that tiny place in Ginza?” His expression turned dreamy. “Where the chef infuses the meat with enhancement spells?”

“Yes! The one where the sake bottles float to your table.”

“And the chopsticks help you if you’re struggling.”

She leaned forward, wine forgotten. “Have you been to the Great Barrier Reef? There’s this magical snorkeling tour?—”

“Where you can breathe underwater for hours?” His eyes danced. “And communicate with the sea life?”

“I made friends with a very opinionated parrot fish.”

“I got lectured by a grumpy sea turtle about proper reef etiquette.”

Their laughter mingled in the warm air, and Clover marveled at how easily conversation flowed between them. Each discovered shared experience, each moment of connection made her magic buzz with recognition.

The candlelight painted golden highlights in his hair as he watched her across the table, his expression softening into something that made her pulse quicken. Without speaking, he stood and circled the table, holding out his hand. Her magic surged in response as she placed her fingers in his, letting him draw her up and into his arms.

One hand settled at the small of her back while the other tangled in her hair, and his heat seeped through her dress wheretheir bodies pressed together. His tiger energy wrapped around her like a caress, making her magic spark.

“Dance with me?” he murmured, though music already played softly in the background.

She nodded, letting him guide her in a slow sway. His thumb traced patterns on her lower back, and every point of contact between them felt charged with electricity. The spicy notes of his cologne mixed with his natural musk, making her head spin in the best way.

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