Chapter 12

** Unexpected Attractions and Awkward Moments**

**Athena's Point of View**

After dealing with the bureaucratic mess of the Archive, all I want is to return to Lanom and forget about forms, lost souls, and a ghostly bureaucrat who could use a personality overhaul. So, when I see Nyx, the dragon who's supposed to take me back, I feel a wave of relief. I'm ready to climb onto his back and leave Egnand behind.

I approach Nyx, who's currently lounging and looking rather content, almost as if he's already napping. But just as I'm about to mount him, a familiar voice calls out to me.

"Not so fast, Athena."

I turn to see Lucifer striding toward me with his usual confident swagger. And just like that, the pull between us intensifies, almost like it's got a mind of its own. It's like a magnetic force that's suddenly turned up to eleven, and it's making my heart race in a way that's decidedly unprofessional.