(Noah’s POV)
I had planned for every variable.
The security at the gates, the vintage of the wine, the exact timing of the Northern Alphas' arrival, everything had been anticipated to project one thing: perfection.
The Vaelor name was built on the illusion of perfection, and tonight was supposed to be the crowning achievement of my leadership.
I had planned for Aria to be my masterpiece. I wanted them to see her in the red velvet, a flame among the ashes of Blackthorne history. I wanted them to see the mark and understand that I was in control.
I also wanted to see how seductive she would look in that dress. No doubt I was already crazy about her, even though I was doing a poor job of hiding it.
My heart skipped as I saw her walk down the steps, her hand locked in my brother’s.
