Trusting Crul's warning implicitly, Ethan turned toward Isabella. The young lady was still brushing dust off her outfit as she observed the imposing entrance of the ruins cut into the rock wall.
"Wait for me here, I am going inside to check something," said Ethan in a calm voice. "I will be back soon."
Isabella furrowed her brow, stepping forward to take him by the arm.
"Go alone? No way, I'm coming with you," demanded Isabella, looking at him with determination.
"No, wait for me here with the rest," insisted Ethan firmly yet gently.
Isabella immediately pouted, letting out a soft huff that contradicted her image as the delegation's ruthless princess.
Ethan couldn't help but smile. He stepped closer, tenderly stroking her cheek to calm her, and gave her a quick kiss on the lips that left her breathless.
"Come on, be a good girl," murmured Ethan near her ear with a playful smirk. "If you stay here, I'll reward you tonight... do you want to?"
