Lyra's POV
I couldn’t believe Kurtis was doing this.
The ballroom was a glittering sea of elegance, the air heavy with the scent of expensive perfume and polished ambition. Crystal chandeliers cast golden light over the room, making everyone look like they belonged in a movie. Everyone but me.
I adjusted the deep emerald gown Angela had insisted I wear, its silky fabric hugging my curves in ways that made me feel both exposed and powerful. My hair was swept into a loose updo, and the necklace Kurtis had given me—a delicate diamond piece—rested coolly against my skin.
I spotted him near the bar, his broad shoulders encased in a perfectly tailored black tuxedo. He looked every bit the billionaire, his jaw set in determination, his eyes scanning the room like a predator hunting prey
