Chapter 53
Kael adjusted the cuffs of his suit jacket as he stood in the quiet antechamber of the presidential palace. After weeks of dedicating himself solely to Celestina, it was time for him to resume his regular duties. Another trusted bodyguard had been assigned to Celestina’s protection detail, allowing Kael to focus on his work outside the palace.
But even as he returned to his old routine, Kael made sure to maintain his presence in Celestina’s life in a way that didn’t feel intrusive. Every evening, as the sun dipped below the horizon, Kael arrived at the palace to have dinner with her and President Alvada.
It was a subtle but meaningful gesture—a way of keeping the bond they had begun to rebuild strong.
The dining room was a study in elegance, its long mahogany table adorned with fresh flowers and gleaming silverware. The soft glow of the chandelier bathed the room in warmth as Kael entered, his gaze instantly finding Celestina.
She was already seated, dressed in a deep blue blouse that complemented her complexion. Her hair was loosely pinned back, and she seemed engrossed in conversation with her father.
“Kael,” President Alvada said, his tone welcoming. “Good to see you again. Join us.”
“Thank you, Mr. President,” Kael replied, his voice steady as he took his seat.
Celestina glanced at him, her expression unreadable but polite. “How was work?”
“Busy,” Kael admitted, unfolding his napkin. “But nothing out of the ordinary. And you?”
“More meetings than I’d like to count,” she said with a faint smile. “But that’s life, I suppose.”
President Alvada chuckled. “She’s becoming quite the diplomat. I’m proud of how she’s handling everything.”
“She always had it in her,” Kael said, his tone warm.
Celestina looked at him briefly, her lips pressing into a faint smile before she returned her attention to her plate.
Over the next several days, the dinners became a routine. Kael arrived promptly each evening, always dressed impeccably and with a new anecdote or story to share.
One evening, he walked in carrying a small bouquet of white lilies.
“For you, Mr. President,” Kael said, handing the flowers to Alvada with a straight face.
The president raised an eyebrow, glancing at Celestina, who stifled a laugh. “I didn’t realize I was the target of your charm, Kael.”
“Well,” Kael said, his tone deadpan, “you did say I needed to win your trust back. Flowers seemed like a good start.”
President Alvada laughed, setting the bouquet aside. “You’re persistent, I’ll give you that.”
