Aveloria had not expected Lucien to be this easy to be around. For days now, she had been tense and guarded, her walls high enough to shut anyone, including her mates. But with Lucien, it was different. He had a calm arrogance about him that was hard to resist. He never pressured her to speak but always seemed to know what she was thinking.
Lucien glanced at her with that smug grin she was beginning to recognize too well. "You know, you ride better than I thought."
She rolled her eyes, fighting a small smile. "Is that supposed to be a compliment?"
"It's the best one you'll get from me today," he teased.
"You're so vain."
He chuckled, clearly enjoying the banter. "And yet, you are still standing next to me. Makes me wonder if you secretly like my company."
Aveloria gave him a look, pretending to be annoyed. "Don't flatter yourself."
"Too late," he replied easily. "I already decided I'm your favorite."
She let out a chuckle. "You're not even close."
