Ryder stood stiffly near the edge of the room, his eyes never leaving Kyra as she conversed with Countess Cortana. From what he could observe, things seemed to be going well. Kyra’s posture was poised, her responses measured. Ryder could almost feel the waves of composure and confidence radiating from her, though he could still sense a lingering tension beneath it all.
She’s handling herself perfectly, he thought, pride swelling in his chest.
But his watchful gaze didn’t falter. He knew these vampires played subtle and dangerous games, and he wasn’t about to let his guard down.
“Good evening, Mr. Alpha King,” came a smooth, familiar voice from behind him.
Ryder turned, his muscles instinctively tensing. “Aleister,” he greeted, his voice neutral. “How are you?”
Aleister smirked, the ex
