Riven POV
I had been alive a long time long enough to forget what it felt like to be intrigued by someone. But in over two centuries, no one had captured my attention the way Lorien had.
The warmth of her hand tucked into the crook of my arm was unexpectedly grounding, a soft, human gesture that sent a ripple of something unfamiliar through me. I pulled her a little closer as we passed two women leaving the bar, their eyes flicking curiously toward us. It was still early enough that the place wouldn’t be crowded; all the Alphas were still locked in their meeting, and I wouldn’t have to worry about their guests intruding. My own men had already filled the empty tables, subtle shadows ensuring we’d have privacy.
“This place is wonderful!” Lorien said brightly, her smile wide and genuine a
