Vera's pov
Before I could react, Gideon stepped forward, his presence suddenly ten times heavier.
“Careful,” he warned, his tone low and lethal. “You’re standing on the edge of disrespect.”
The Alpha raised his hands in mock surrender, still smiling. “Only teasing, old friend. No harm meant.”
But the message had been received—by everyone within earshot.
Gideon took my hand once more and led me away again, this time toward the exit of the hall that led to a quieter garden terrace. The air outside was cool and crisp, a welcome contrast to the stifling atmosphere inside.
He didn’t speak for a moment. Just stood beside me, looking up at the stars.
“I didn’t bring you here to make a scene,” he finally said. “But seeing him touch you… I lost focus.”
“You don’t have to be so guarded with
