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And I was definitely not thinking about how that balance might extend to other areas. Nope. Not at all. Time to change the subject before my imagination ran away with me again.

“Um, Sylvie?” I gathered my courage. “Since it’s Friday… I was wondering if maybe you could show me around the city after your classes?” The words came out in a rush, but once I started, I couldn’t stop. “And maybe we could visit some shops?”

“Are you sure you’re ready for the city, little bat?” Zane asked, his steel-gray eyes studying me with concern. I understood his worry—the old Luca had never ventured out of the penthouse, preferring to stay hidden in his sanctuary.

“I want to try,” I said, forcing myself to meet his gaze despite the way it made my insides turn to jelly. “I can’t hide in the penthouse forever, right?”

“The Crystal Palace Mall would be perfect for a first outing,” Sylvie suggested, practically bouncing in her seat. “It’s our joint venture with the Bellinis—they manage all the luxury retail while we handle the property development. Plus, they just opened that new boutique wing that you’d love.”

“Oh! And the new gaming center on the top floor,” Hunter added. “The one with the VR setup?”

“Our sugar fang’s growing wings,” Archer grinned, but I caught the protective gleam in his eyes. “Tell you what—I’ll come along. Make sure no one bothers our prince while he spreads them.”

“The Bellini district is probably the best choice,” Ryker nodded, exchanging a look with Zane. “Controlled environment, our own security, and Dante’s people are reliable.”

“And the best blood bars,” Archer added with a wink. “That new rooftop lounge has amazing views of the coast.”

“The Crystal Palace Mall is a good choice,” Great Uncle Johnathan spoke up, finally setting aside his ancient scrolls. “Dante called yesterday about wanting to strengthen ties between our clans. Having the Whitlock prince visit their territory would be a nice gesture.”

I nearly choked on my blood. “Wait, is this going to be like… a diplomatic thing?” The idea of being paraded around as some sort of vampire prince ambassador made my anxiety spike.

“Relax, sugar fang.” Archer leaned back in his chair. “It’s just shopping. Though…” His grin turned mischievous. “Youmight want to prepare yourself for some attention. The Whitlock prince finally emerging from his tower? It’s going to cause quite a stir.”

“Maybe we should wait—” I started, but Sylvie cut me off.

“No backing out now! Besides, the Crystal Palace is perfect for your first appearance. It’s neutral ground, technically, even if we own it. And the Bellini Clan is all about style and entertainment—they’re not going to let anything spoil the fun.”

“And their security rivals ours,” Ryker added, his scent carrying a hint of reassurance. “The mall has special VIP areas for supernatural families. Very discreet.”

“Plus.” Hunter grinned. “If anyone bothers you, I can always challenge them to a VR duel. I’m undefeated inDemon Lord’s Quest.”

“Yes, because virtual demon-slaying is exactly what we need for diplomatic relations.” Aunt Senna shook her head fondly.

“I’ll have Harrison prepare the penthouse car,” Zane said. “And I’ll call Dante myself to let him know you’re coming. He’ll make sure everything runs smoothly.”

“The car?” I squeaked. “Can’t we just, um, take a normal car? Something less… attention-grabbing?”

Three identical looks of horror met my suggestion.

“A normal car?” Archer clutched his chest dramatically. “For the Whitlock prince’s first public appearance? Dante would never forgive us. His clan practically invented supernatural glamour in New Vale.”

“He’s right.” Sylvie nodded sagely. “The Bellinis are all about making an entrance. Remember when they unveiled their summer collection? They had leopard shifters walking on water in the marina.”

I sank lower in my chair, wondering if it was too late to evolve into a throw pillow instead of a vampire prince.

“Don’t worry,” Sylvie said. “We’ll make sure you’re comfortable, Luca. And if it gets overwhelming…”

“We bail,” Archer finished. “No questions asked. Though maybe we should establish a code word? Something subtle, likeHoly crow, I’m about to float into the chandelier!”

“Archer.” Zane’s warning tone carried both exasperation and amusement.

“What? It could happen.”

“Time for school,” Sylvie announced, getting up and practically dragging Hunter with her. “Lots of homework to finish before shopping. Come on, Hunter.”

As the staff began clearing the breakfast table, Archer stretched lazily. “Well, since I’m playing bodyguard for the shopping trip later, I should probably finish that marketing presentation first.” He turned to me with his signature playful grin. “Want to come along to the office, sugar fang? See how the family business runs?”

My head snapped up. Marketing presentation? The wordsBeyond Beautyflashed through my mind—my last project before… everything. “I’d love to,” I said, perhaps too eagerly. “I mean, if that’s okay?”