Vivienne's eyes narrowed as she watched Elara and Damien. The chess table between them might as well have been a battlefield. Elara had just gracefully conceded the first match after recognizing her inevitable defeat several moves ahead.
"Good game," Elara said simply, no trace of disappointment in her voice.
She rose from her seat with the same quiet dignity she always carried. Her silk dress caught the light as she turned to leave.
"Another," Damien's deep voice broke through the murmurs of the onlookers.
Elara paused mid-step. She turned slightly, her profile illuminated by the warm glow of the nearby lamps.
"Pardon?" she asked.
"Another game," Damien clarified, his eyes never leaving her face. "Unless you're tired."
There was something in his tone—not quite a challenge, not quite a question.
Vivienne stepped forward, her hand possessively sliding onto Damien's shoulder. "Darling, I'm sure Elara has had enough entertainment for tonight."