Fake Mate Beta Rises to Alpha Heiress (Natalie) novel Chapter 10

Chapter 10 Very Handsome

Natalie’s Point of View:

The private room was softly illuminated by the shimmering light of a crystal chandelier hanging overhead. A tall figure stood with his back facing me, the grandeur of the setting contrasting with the tense silence between us.

“Mr. Sanchez?” I ventured hesitantly, my voice barely above a whisper.

He slowly turned around, and suddenly his strikingly handsome, almost commanding face filled my entire field of vision. His eyes were deep-set and intense, his nose perfectly straight and noble, and his lips—sharp and sculpted as if carved by an artist’s hand.

I found myself momentarily frozen, caught off guard by his presence. At last, his cool, measured voice broke through my daze. “That’s me. Ms. Scott, please take a seat.”

“Oh, yes,” I replied quickly, averting my gaze in an awkward attempt at composure. Hadn’t I expected him to be more ordinary looking?

Noticing my discomfort, Leonardo’s lips curved into a faint, teasing smile. “What’s wrong? Am I unpleasant to look at?”

A powerful, almost overwhelming aura radiated from him—the unmistakable presence of a top-tier Alpha. I shook my head immediately, wanting to reassure him. “No, not at all. You’re very handsome.” In truth, he was perhaps the most breathtaking man I had ever seen, surpassing even Landon, who was often praised as movie-star handsome. After years of knowing Landon, my standards were far from low.

Leonardo’s features were a masterpiece—flawless and exquisitely chiseled, as if fashioned by the Moon Goddess herself.

“Thank you,” he said with a subtle nod, his tone flat and difficult to read. “Ms. Scott, you are also very beautiful. It suits you well.”

I smiled, lifting my eyes to meet his. “Thank you for the gifts.”

To my surprise, Leonardo was not as intimidating as I had imagined. His words were polite, though tinged with a distant chill. “If you like them, I can send more often.”

After just a few sentences, he signaled for the meal to begin. Course after course arrived, each plate a tiny work of art—delicate bites bursting with unique, complex flavors. The food was exquisite, yet the slow pace left me feeling unfulfilled. Throughout the meal, Leonardo remained silent, observing me without speaking. We were strangers, and despite the fine cuisine, the atmosphere grew stiff and formal.

Remembering Matthew’s warning that Leonardo was demanding of his mate, I dared not break the silence unless he spoke first.

Only once the main course was cleared and dessert placed before me did he finally ask again, “Is the food to your liking?”

“It’s very good, delicious,” I replied, having just tasted a small spoonful of dessert. I quickly set down the silver spoon, feeling my cheeks warm with embarrassment. My compliment sounded too plain, so I added thoughtfully, “You have excellent taste. The dishes are distinctive, with rich, layered flavors.”

Leonardo listened quietly, lowering his gaze slightly. His expression remained unreadable.

Was my assessment too casual? I wasn’t a food critic and rarely dined in places like this.

“Ms. Scott, if you prefer, we can choose another venue next time. You may decide,” he offered.

“No, I like it,” I said, waving my hand dismissively, but under his intense scrutiny, I chose honesty. “The food is delicious. I’m just not used to such formal settings, and I’m a bit nervous meeting you for the first time.”

“Perhaps next time, in a more relaxed setting, we could talk more,” I added, revealing my true feelings. After all, this was about forming a mate contract, not romance. My comfort mattered.

Leonardo nodded briefly. “I’m not used to talking much. I never know what to say.”

“I noticed,” I said with a small smile.

For the first time, he seemed to relax. He leaned back in his chair, his tall frame outlined by the slight wrinkles of his black shirt, revealing a lean, powerful physique.

“I heard from Sir Scott that you’ve agreed to the binding contract,” Leonardo said.

“Yes,” I confirmed.

He continued, “According to Moon-Shadowed Pack tradition, every step—from engagement to the Moon Goddess vow ceremony—must be observed. I have a busy schedule ahead and prefer not to rush. You may need to wait some time. Of course, if you have any requests, please state them.”

“That’s fine. I’ll follow your arrangements,” I replied without hesitation.

“Good.” His slight nod conveyed satisfaction.

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