Rafael glanced at Isidora as he sipped his drink, his thoughts momentarily drifting. She was an intriguing woman, and as he had expected, more than worthy of being a queen. There was something about her—a captivating blend of beauty and brains—that he found himself admiring more than he intended to. Her allure was undeniable, almost magnetic, and he found himself drawn to it in a way he hadn't anticipated. It wasn't just her looks, though they were certainly striking; it was the way she carried herself, the confidence that radiated from her. She wasn't shy about sharing her opinions or even too diplomatic as was the habit of those in politics, and that only added to her appeal.