[Haldor's POV—A Day After—Eloria Camp—Night]
"The camp is ready, Your Highness," I reported as she continued gently patting Marshi's fur. The tiger purred—actually purred—and leaned into her hand like a giant spoiled cat.
She stood, brushing her palms lightly. "Thank you, Sir Haldor."
I bowed my head and instinctively fell in step behind her. The night breeze rustled her red cloak, the campfires painting her in flickers of gold and shadow.
"Let's have dinner together?" she said suddenly.
I stopped.
Not because she asked—but because she asked so casually, as though it were normal. As though it were expected. As though she hadn't ripped open my entire emotional foundation just last night by giving me the first birthday celebration of my life.
"I… don't mind, Your Highness," I answered immediately.
She paused. Blinked at me. Tilted her head like she had heard something impossible.
"You… aren't saying no today?"
