CHAPTER THIRTY TWO

I step into the silence that engulfs the dining hall, like a raging fire had been extinguished and only smoldering ashes remain. As I stand in the doorway, I shift from one foot to the other, my eyes wide, taking in the scene before me. Anxiety swells in my chest until I finally feel locked onto a figure across the room – it’s Alden. His presence is like a beacon, and I can feel his intensity from where I stand. I don't even know why I am suddenly so nervous. This is just dinner and I don't even know anyone here. I also don't need to prove anything to anyone.

The entire table seems to be sizing me up, as if waiting for something to happen. I have never felt so intimidated in my life. Alden sits at the head of the table with a calm exterior. But beneath his mask is a menacing presence, and he stares at me with warmth and desire. I am not wrong, I can see it in his eyes. To his left is an almost identical man, sharing the same horned species but with hair of platinum blonde and a wicked