The wind in the garden gently lifted the delicate petals of the flowers as Neonidas' smile deepened.
"Do you want to rule over me?" his voice filled with a taunting challenge.
Allea lowered her head and looked at her ring once more. "Yes," she admitted honestly. "But now... I know it will be much harder."
Neonidas stepped toward the edge of the stone pathway. He reached out and plucked a deep red flower from a branch.
As he stroked its velvety petals with his fingertips, he murmured, "Difficult, but not impossible." When his gaze returned to Allea, an unusual spark flickered in his eyes.
Allea knew he enjoyed this game. Neonidas was accustomed to dominance, both on the battlefield and in personal relationships. But he was more than just a conqueror—he was also a strategist who played with finesse.
"What do you intend to do?" Allea, scrutinizing his gaze.
Neonidas smiled faintly. "I might let you rule over me," he said slowly. "But only... in the way I choose."
