Third person's POV
The moment Rowan finished speaking, the subtle shift in the atmosphere was almost immediate.
A tall man in a tailored dark suit, an Alpha from one of the mid-tier packs, stepped forward with a polite smile that barely hid his ambition. He inclined his head toward Liora, his tone smooth and rehearsed.
“Miss Quinn,” he said, “I’ve admired your composure tonight. Your insight earlier was impressive. If you don’t mind, I’d like the chance to get to know you better—perhaps over dinner sometime?”
The surrounding circle quieted, several pairs of eyes flicking between them. The question was a bold one. It was not merely personal interest; it was an attempt at alignment.
Liora felt the familiar tightening in her chest. She was already tired of the scrutiny, of be
