SEBASTIAN
I had everything arranged. My best enforcers stationed at the parking area, sharp-eyed, armed under their formal jackets, ready to shadow every move Aleric’s people made. I wanted to greet him personally. Shake his hand. Smile while I sized up the devil everyone whispered about. Let the entire ballroom see me stand toe-to-toe with the savage king and not flinch.
When the van rolled in, I felt the first flicker of triumph. Then the doors opened and only two men stepped out.
Disappointment hit like cold water, quickly chased by irritation.
That’s it? Two lackeys?
I scanned the vehicle again, half-expecting him to emerge from the shadows like the predator he was supposed to be.
A slow exhale escaped me. Maybe the rumors were overblown. Maybe the great Aleric had heard how many
