Page 21 of The Lycan King's Secret Child

He held her gaze.

Xander: "Only when it's weaponized."

Amelia: "Meaning?"

Xander: "Information can be dangerous in the wrong hands."

Amelia: "Do you consider mine the wrong hands?"

Xander: "I haven't decided yet."

They shared a small smile.

Amelia: "Your turn. What drives Alexander Drakov?"

Xander: "Responsibility. Legacy."

Amelia: "That's vague."

Xander: "It's the truth. I have obligations that extend beyond what most can comprehend."

Amelia: "You're right—that is vague."

He chuckled.

Xander: "Perhaps I'm not used to opening up."

Amelia: "Then consider this practice."

He took a moment, contemplating.

Xander: "Very well. I come from a... long line of traditionalists. Expectations were set for me from a young age."

Amelia: "Family pressure?"

Xander: "In a manner of speaking. I had to learn to balance personal desires with duty."

Amelia: "And have you found that balance?"

Xander: "It's an ongoing process."

Their meals arrived, artfully presented dishes that looked almost too good to eat.

Amelia: "This looks amazing."

Xander: "I hope it meets your expectations."

They began to eat, the conversation flowing easily between them.

Amelia: "Do you ever wish you could step away from it all?"

Xander: "At times. But there's too much at stake."

Amelia: "Must be isolating."

Xander: "It can be. But moments like this make it worthwhile."

She felt a warmth spread through her.

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