He intended to provide her with wood. She would be classified as a Wood, rather than a Dieng, in human society. He comprehended that she and Logan needed to retain it for reasons pertaining to their lineage and its documentation. However, he would bestow upon her what she had always desired: his surname.
All his garments remained displaced, and his shoes had also been carelessly relegated. Thus, he was able to perceive it distinctly. It brought him joy merely by being observed. Her enduring desire for him likely accounted for her prolonged presence, anticipating that he would eventually recognise her affection.
Ryder devoted the entire afternoon to arranging dinner. He had directly confronted Stella, positioning himself in front of her and Fade. A slight risk, yet he was excessively content to be concerned about any demeanour he received from either individual. She had not received any; in fact, she merely smiled at him and shook her head.
Discovered Brianna’s preferred foods, flowers, and beverages. Stella disclosed nearly all the information he sought, then gazed at him for an extended moment, sighed gently, and remarked, “You harmed her, and Fade will exact retribution.”
“I will not,” Ryder stated. “I love her, Stella, just as Nolan loves you.”
She smiled directly at him, stating “Good,” and subsequently divulged the information he sought. Voluvents, filled with chicken, broccoli, and cheese sauce, preferred to consume roasted duck accompanied by baked or steamed vegetables. Her preferred dessert was caramel mud cake; regarding alcohol, she consumed it infrequently but would occasionally indulge in an espresso martini. However, it was deemed highly improbable that Brianna would consume any alcohol. Typically, she consumed a glass of iced water with her meals.
Stella had been exceedingly candid, and he was quite pleased with her assistance. They appeared to be harmonious, which was beneficial and would prove advantageous in the long term as well. He needed to cultivate a positive relationship with her and then withdraw. He continued to hope that, at some point, she would desire to become a member of the pack. He was also aware that Nolan did as well.
He had appointed his head chef and established a menu with her for his private dining room, a space he had not previously required. Primarily, it was utilised by his father and Helen.
He ordered her favourite flowers, Dahlias, in various colours and in as many quantities as possible. He personally inspected the dining room prior to ascending to shower and change.
Had grinned at the chamber. The walls were adorned with vases of flowers, and the table was arranged for two, featuring a round glass bowl at the centre with three floating candles. The table was decorated in the Pack colours: Black, Royal Blue, and Gold.
He was now prepared, attired in a soft grey suit complemented by a navy blue shirt, his hair meticulously styled and clean-shaven, aiming to create a favourable impression and demonstrate his intention to appear appealing for her ‘preening.’
Aiden had scoffed at him in amusement. Indeed, he was.
I had no expectations of Brianna this evening; I merely sought to enjoy a pleasant dinner and her company. Given her behaviour today—leaning back into him and permitting a kiss without displaying offence or displeasure—I hoped their connection was gradually strengthening.
There was no urgency. She had acquiesced to her presence here as his Mate and future Luna; he would not hasten her, yet he desired to commence planning if she was amenable.
Ryder examined his reflection in the mirror once more, then inhaled deeply and exhaled slowly.
Aiden laughed derisively, suggesting that he had never dined out before. He chuckled at his own humanity.
“Silence, I have never engaged in anything of such significance,” Ryder retorted to Aiden, “you require this to succeed as much as I do.”
He exited his suite and approached Brianna’s door to knock, maintaining his smile as she opened it. Ryder was oblivious to how three simple words could elate him so profoundly.
“Good evening, Brianna,” he said softly. She appeared exquisite in a soft cream knit dress, which was long, nearly reaching her knees, with one side slightly elevated, revealing a glimpse of her leg. Featured long sleeves and a scooped neckline.
Her lengthy hair was gathered into a relaxed braid, with several stray tendrils framing her beautiful face. She wore soft pink lipstick that shimmered slightly in the light, complemented by natural makeup. He believed she required none. I had primarily observed her without it since my arrival in the pack.
“You appear exquisite,” Ryder remarked, extending his hand towards her, presenting a solitary dark pink Dahlia.
“Thank you.” Brianna smiled at him, appearing somewhat bashful, yet she accepted the flower and inhaled its fragrance. “You appear quite attractive as well.”
“Thank you.” He appreciated her slight shyness, finding it endearing, which alleviated his anxiety. He intertwined his fingers with hers as she exited the room and closed the door behind her.
Escorted her down the stairs to his private dining room. It was located down the corridor from the pack’s ballroom on the ground level. An omega stood outside the room, attired in pack colours. A she-wolf named Kate opened the door for them to enter the room. “Greetings, Alpha and Luna.”
Ryder gestured to her and guided Brianna inside, observing her pause to survey the room as the door shut behind them. The room featured soft green walls and white marble tiles, adorned with a crystal chandelier, and contained a single table for two. Extremely confidential and personal, as his exclusive dining experience ought to be.
She touched several of the flowers in the vases around the room before turning to look up at him, smiling. This room contained twelve bunches of her favourite flowers. He grinned at her.
“Stella!”She subtly shook her head yet maintained her smile.
