Before Alaric gave out the order, Nicolette already knew who those flowers came from.
Lucian.
He was getting bolder by the minute, and she could bet her father was behind it. Ronald was pushing him, encouraging him to try all of this.
The bouquets were quickly cleared by some staff members while Alaric turned to her.
His mouth twisted, and his forehead creased in anger.
"That was weird," she said, trying not to make him think about it. "Ready for food?"
Alaric nodded, but she could tell he was far from ready. His phone rang, and he glanced at the screen.
"Go on, I will join you. Let me talk to Richard. I will be in the study," he said, and gave her a kiss before leaving.
Nicolette blushed to her roots, moved by his gesture. There was something unexpectedly soft about Alaric now, and she didn't know if to be happy or terrified by it.
