Let Them Kneel (kaelani and Julian) novel Chapter 207

Chapter 207

Kaelani turned at the sound of his steps, her gaze finding him easily.

She wore a soft, midnight–blue dress, the fabric skimming her frame before falling mid thigh.

Thin straps rested over her shoulders, disappearing along her back where the fabric laced down in a delicate, intricate pattern. Her hair fell in loose curls around her shoulders, catching the light as she moved.

For a second, he just stood there, taking her in.

He stepped forward slowly, like he wasn’t entirely sure his body would cooperate if he moved too fast.

“You look beautiful,” he said.

“Thank you,” she replied, a faint blush warming her cheeks. “You look very handsome yourself.”

His gaze stayed locked on her, something tightening low in his chest, that same pull rising again–stronger now, sharper.

If he had any less control-

he’d already be across the room.

Kaelani gestured lightly toward one of the chairs at the table.

“Have a seat,” she said. “I’m just finishing up.

Julian pulled the chair out and sat, his attention lingering on her for a moment before the rest of the room settled back into focus.

A soft crackle carried from the living area, followed by a low, mellow melody drifting into the kitchen. He glanced past the open space and caught sight of the record player set on the table beside the couch, the vinyl spinning slowly as it filled the cabin with something warm and familiar.

His gaze shifted back to the table, simple but set with intention.

Kaelani stepped over and placed a plate in front of him–salmon, perfectly seared, with asparagus arranged neatly along the side and a portion of rice beside it.

Julian looked down at it, then back up at her. “This looks amazing.”

“I hope you like it,” she said. “It would be better if everything were fresh. I didn’t exactly plan on cooking here for anyone but myself.”

Julian met her gaze, a faint smile touching his mouth. “I’m sure I will.”

She held his eyes for a moment before something clicked in her expression.

“Wait.”

She turned quickly and disappeared toward the back. Julian listened as drawers and cabinets opened and closed while she searched for something.

A moment later, she returned with a long, elegant candlestick and holder in her hand.

She set it at the center of the table, struck a match, and lit the wick. The flame caught, casting a warm, steady glow across the table.

+25 Bonus

She stepped back, taking it all in the meal, the setting, the soft music drifting in from the living area before her gaze settled on him, quiet satisfaction softening her expression.

Kaelani took her plate from the counter and set it down across from him before sliding into her seat.

She didn’t look up right away, but when she did, she found his eyes already on her.

Her lips curved into a small, shy smile before her gaze dropped again, her fingers reaching for her fork as if she suddenly needed something to do with her hands.

Julian mirrored the movement, but his attention stayed on her.

The realization settled in fully, striking him with a quiet intensity that felt almost unreal.

He was here.

With her.

Not in passing. Not in sleep.

Here.

His heart picked up, steady and strong, the feeling sitting somewhere between disbelief and something far more dangerous.

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify