A strong alpha lineage

Radulf entered the chamber, impeccably dressed, his eyes immediately finding Melissa seated near the small table.

"You didn't leave," he remarked, his tone even. "I'm not a tea enthusiast. You should enjoy it alone—or perhaps with Nina," he added, his gaze briefly flicking to the untouched teapot.

Melissa rose from her seat, her soft expression belying her persistence. "Can't you share just one cup with me? For my sake?" she asked gently. "I promise, after today, I'll never ask again. I even had Pia reheat it just a few minutes ago."

Radulf hesitated, then nodded. "Fine. Pour me a cup."

A small smile tugged at Melissa's lips as she quickly poured the tea, her movements graceful yet unsteady under his scrutinizing gaze. She placed the cup and saucer before him, watching as he picked it up and inhaled its fragrant aroma. Taking a slow sip, he didn't utter a word, though the tea's quality seemed to satisfy him.