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York straightened in his chair, his relaxed demeanor instantly replaced with tension. "We were just discussing Miss Lucero's return to Miami."

Seraphina watched Orion's jaw tighten almost imperceptibly. She rose from her chair.

"I need to see Abby," she said, meeting Orion's gaze directly. "She's worried about me. I can't just disappear from her life without explanation."

Something softened in Orion's expression—a gentle understanding that made her heart skip. "Of course. I'll take you back to Miami myself tomorrow."

"That won't be possible," York interjected, standing now. His lanky frame seemed impossibly frail next to Orion's solid presence. "There are some legal matters to address. The senator is quite concerned about this... situation."

Seraphina's stomach twisted with anxiety. Was Orion in actual legal trouble because of her?

York turned to her, his expression seemingly crafted to convey sincerity. "Miss Lucero, if you come back with me, you could speak directly with Senator Iverson. Explain that you weren't coerced, and smooth things over. It would be the quickest way to resolve any potential... misunderstandings."

The implication hung in the air. If she didn't go with York, Orion might face legal consequences. The thought of him in trouble because of her made her heart constrict painfully.

"All right," she agreed, ignoring the flicker of hurt that flashed across Orion's face. "I'll go back with you. Just to clear things up."

The conference room door burst open again, and Chance strode in, his dark features arranged in a jovial expression that didn't quite mask the urgency in his eyes.

"Sorry to interrupt the diplomatic summit," he announced, flashing a disarming smile, "but there's a storm system moving in fast. All flights are grounded until tomorrow morning at the earliest."

York's face fell. "That's impossible. I need to get back today."

Chance shrugged, his broad shoulders rising and falling with casual indifference. "Take it up with Mother Nature. Unless you've got gills or wings, you're stuck here tonight."

Seraphina bit the inside of her cheek to suppress a smile as York's controlled facade cracked slightly. Was it wrong to feel relieved that she didn't have to leave yet?

"Fine," York conceded, checking his watch. "I have matters to attend to privately. I need to update the senator on this... development."

"Of course," Orion's voice rumbled with barely concealed satisfaction. "Chance will show you to suitable accommodations."

Chance clapped a friendly hand on York's shoulder, nearly causing the slimmer man to buckle. "This way, my friend. We've got a lovely room with an ocean view. Can't promise mermaids, though."

As they departed, Orion turned to Seraphina, his eyes burning with fierce intensity.

"Have dinner with me tonight," he said, more command than question. "We have much to discuss."

She should refuse. The memory of his earlier deception still smarted. And yet…

"All right," she agreed, surprising herself.

When they were completely alone in the hallway, Orion's fingers brushed against hers—a touch so light, it might have been imagined, yet it sent electricity racing through her arm.

"You do look stunning in that dress." His eyes traced her form with such frank appreciation that heat flooded her face.

"I didn't exactly pack for an extended stay on Wolf King Island," she replied, attempting levity despite the thick tension between them.

"Wolf King Island," he repeated, the corner of his mouth lifting. "I like that."

He led her down the corridor, his hand coming to rest on her lower back. Even through the fabric of her dress, his touch burned, branding her. The possessive gesture should have irritated her, yet she found herself leaning into it despite her lingering anger.

"I'm still furious with you," she said, glancing up at his chiseled profile. "You should have told me about York immediately."

"I know." The simple admission surprised her. "But I wanted you to choose to stay after getting to know me better. Getting to know us."

Seraphina's heart fluttered treacherously. "And you always get what you want, don't you?"

Orion stopped walking, turning to face her fully. His eyes blazed with something primal that made her knees weak.