Clara's POV
I smiled back at Darius, grateful for the brief escape from the political theater. "I'll be quick."
He nodded, his hand giving my waist a gentle squeeze before releasing me. "Take your time. I'll be here when you get back."
I made my way through the crowd, weaving between groups of alphas and their companions who were engaged in animated conversations. The formal atmosphere had relaxed considerably during the recess, but I could still feel eyes following my movement across the room.
The restrooms were located down a long hallway off the main ballroom, past several smaller conference rooms and a few service areas. As I walked, I felt some of the tension leave my shoulders. Playing the perfect mate for hours was more exhausting than I'd expected.
The hallway grew quieter as
