Elena’s POV
I pressed myself closer behind Evelyn, wishing I could melt into her broad shoulders and disappear entirely. The moment Eric Thompson spotted Lady Valentina, my chest tightened so sharply I thought I might suffocate. Every nerve in me screamed, and I felt my stomach twist.
“There you are, Lady Valentina,” he said, offering her a firm handshake. His voice was smooth, controlled, but there was a sharp edge underneath it.
Valentina took his hand with a polite nod, but I could hear the cool distance in her tone. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you, Alpha Thompson. I’ve heard so much about you.”
“Likewise,” he replied, his gaze flicking past her entourage, and my pulse jumped. I prayed he hadn’t noticed me hiding behind Evelyn.
Then, almost casually, he added, “My
