Never Again Yours (Isadora and Magnus)

Chapter 108

Isadora's cheeks flushed, a soft pink coloring her ears as Victor's words lingered in the air.

Without hesitation, Victor reached out and slipped his hand into hers, the gesture intimate and easy, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.

His palm was large and warm, enveloping her slender fingers completely.

Isadora wasn't used to this. The crisp early autumn breeze did nothing to cool the restless flutter in her chest. Her palm was already damp, and she instinctively tried to pull her hand away, not wanting him to notice.

But Victor didn't let go. At first, he'd just held her hand, but now his fingers interlaced with hers, holding her tighter.

She'd never held hands with anyone like this before. It felt so close, so unmistakably romantic-her heart thudded in her chest with nervous excitement.

Victor glanced down at her, lips curving into a teasing smile, his gaze playful. "Is it too warm for you?"

Isadora shot him a glare with her bright, expressive eyes, certain he was doing this on purpose.

She stubbornly replied, "I'm just hungry, that's all."

Victor chuckled softly, still holding her hand as he led her inside.

moonlight, their shadows-two people and a dog-stretched

housekeeper passing by caught sight of them, eyes going wide in surprise

seen the young master holding hands with a woman before. Isn't

lets anyone near him, follows her around. Anyone would

family is about

was set with an array of dishes: sweet and tangy glazed ribs, steamed white fish, sautéed crab with herbs, and beef with tender spring vegetables. Four courses

in delight, her mouth

just threw a few things together. But don't worry-there's plenty of ribs tonight. No need to fight Pudding for

fight Pudding!" she protested, recalling how she'd simply taken a few extra pieces last

eyes crinkling with amusement. "Alright, alright.

juiciest ribs and piling them onto a plate-until it was heaping full.

fluffy golden retriever, bounded over, tail wagging,

to Victor as he reached for a set of crab crackers. His long, deft fingers worked skillfully,

it too much trouble-especially in front

help but admire the graceful precision of his

he'd finished and carefully placed the delicate, snowy crab meat into a small porcelain bowl, setting it in

she

utensils before picking up a damp napkin to wipe his hands. Then,

softened with affection as he