I clung to Orion's arm as we walked back into the house, grateful for his solid presence beside me. The roses he'd brought were already safely nestled in a crystal vase, their deep crimson petals a stark contrast against the white tablecloth.
"Thank you for coming," I whispered, leaning closer to him. "I don't think I could face this night alone."
Orion's silver eyes studied my face with that knowing look he always had. "Is it really that bad?" he asked quietly.
I didn't need to look across the room to know where Rhys was standing. I could feel him watching us, his gaze burning into my back like a brand. "Worse," I admitted.
Orion squeezed my hand reassuringly. "I'm not going anywhere."
My step-father, Gamma Alistair, approached us with a warm smile. "Alpha Valerius, what an honor to have you in our home." He extended his hand, which Orion shook firmly.
