"We have a week and a few days until the full moon," Herod said, gaze drifting to the sky as if it might hurry up and make things easier. "Alaric says Ava must accept the bond of her own free will for me to gain access to her powers. How do you propose I go about her wanting to mate with me?"
"It's simple," Dorian said with a shrug. "She has to love you."
"You think love is simple?" he repeated.
"That's why you have me." Dorian allowed himself a small smile. "Ava likes grand gestures. Also little things. Thoughtful things. The kind that make her feel seen, not just wanted. She wants to feel important. Like a queen, not a prize."
Herod scoffed, but it sounded forced. "If she can forget about Lucas…"
Dorian interrupted smoothly. "Then throw everything you have into making her want you. Not your title. Not your power. You."
Herod exhaled. "Well, the clock is ticking. Alaric better get to work."
Dorian slowed his steps. "One more thing, Your Highness."
