Chapter 21

The sun was high in the sky, casting a warm golden glow over the sprawling hills and thick forest that stretched as far as Althea could see. She stood at the edge of a small clearing, her hands twisting nervously in the edge of her dress as she took in the scenery. It was beautiful here, more beautiful than she’d expected. The air smelled of pine and earth, and a gentle breeze brushed against her face, tugging at the loose strands of her hair. “Do you always look this nervous when you’re surrounded by perfection?” Kaden’s deep voice broke through her thoughts, teasing and warm. She turned sharply to look at him, her heart doing that annoying little flutter it always seemed to do when he was near. He was leaning casually against a tree a few feet away, his broad shoulders relaxed, his silver eyes watching her with faint amusement. The sunlight highlighted his sharp features, casting soft shadows along his jawline. “I’m not nervous,” Althea said quickly, though her voice wavered slightly