Lena’s POV
The final echoes of the Vanguard charity gala faded into the quiet hum of the estate. The towering chandeliers had been dimmed, the last of the high-society guests had departed into the cool night air, and the sprawling hallways finally felt like they were breathing again.
I stood in the foyer with Adrian, my heels aching and my nerves frayed to a breaking point. I had survived the evening. I had smiled, I had danced, and I had successfully navigated the silent, terrifying war zone between Richard and Julian. I just wanted to go home, slip into my own bed, and pretend that the world wasn't spinning out of control.
"Don't go back to your place tonight," Adrian said softly, stepping closer and resting his hands gently on my waist. His voice was warm, carrying that effortless,
