Dumped Omega? Now Their Alpha King Begs at My Feet novel Chapter 57

Kai's POV

I stood on the platform, waiting. I had checked the single table setting three times. Everything was perfect.

The silence of the empty restaurant was absolute. I was used to silence, but this was different. This was the silence of anticipation.

My comm unit chimed in my pocket. A text from my head of security at the entrance.

—She has arrived.—

I straightened my shirt and stood by the table, my hands clasped behind my back. I felt a tension in my shoulders I hadn't felt in years.

Then she walked in.

She wore a simple, dark dress. It wasn't designed to impress. It was designed to be practical. That, more than anything, made her look powerful.

I watched her as she stopped, her eyes taking in the entire space. I saw the flicker of surprise on her face as she realized the restaurant was completely empty. That it was all for her.

Good.

I walked to meet her as she approached the platform.

"Valerie," I said, my voice coming out a little rougher than I intended. "I'm glad you came."

She met my gaze, her gray eyes cautious but direct. "Kai. You said a ‘consultation.' I wasn't aware the entire regional council was joining us."

A real smile touched my lips. Her wit was as sharp as her healing skills.

"Privacy is essential for a productive discussion, don't you think?" I replied, gesturing toward the table.

I led her to her seat. She was about to pull out her own chair, a practical and independent gesture I had expected.

She was all business. I respected that. But I wasn't going to make it that easy for her.

"They are," I confirmed. "But before we get to business, I have to ask. How are you feeling? Truly."

Her eyes narrowed slightly. She wasn't expecting a personal question.

"I'm recovering," she said, her answer guarded. "The magical exhaustion is… significant."

"Better isn't good enough," I said, my voice dropping. "I made a promise to you, Valerie. That you would have whatever you needed. That includes a full recovery."

I leaned forward slightly, my gaze intense.

"Which brings me to my first real question of this consultation," I said, my voice a low rumble.

"The Moonpetal. Did it work?"