Alaric's grip on her waist tightened, his eyes burning with a raw honesty that made Sofia's breath hitch. "I want you, Sofia," he whispered, his voice vibrating against her skin. "I've spent years surrounded by people who want my crown or my name. But you… you have a pure heart. I can't imagine my life with anyone else anymore. It has to be you."
Sofia felt a surge of warmth, but the memory of little Serena's words chilled her. She looked up at him, her eyes searching his. "Do you want me because of who I am, Alaric? Or is it because I remind you of her? Your daughter said my hair looks just like her mother's."
Alaric didn't flinch. He reached up, his hand cupping her cheek. "No," he said firmly. "Serena is a child; she looks for her mother in everyone she likes. But I am a man, and I see you. I see your strength, your kindness, and the way you stand your ground. You are not a shadow of the past, Sofia. You are my future."
