Nora's POV
"James, obviously," I reply instantly, my voice carrying absolute certainty.
"There's no one else I'd even consider."
"This isn't about your personal preferences," Winston continues, his tone matter-of-fact. "When it comes to finding the perfect pair to rule, desire doesn't dictate destiny."
"James complements me perfectly."
"Perhaps here on Earth, yes." Winston settles back in his chair, his ancient eyes studying me with unsettling intensity. "I've walked this planet for two millennia, and in all that time, one fundamental truth has never changed."
"Which would be?"
"The essential nature of vampires. We are inherently selfish, driven purely by self-interest. Power appeals to us, certainly, but only when it comes without sacrifice. We crave immediate satisfaction and refuse to pay the price for our desires."
"Trust me, I'm well aware of vampire narcissism. Get to your point."
