Melanie's POV
Camille showed up; of course, he would follow.
He was standing right next to her.
The crowd naturally gave them space, acknowledging a kind of public, yet unannounced, commitment.
The Alpha auras around the room—heat, metal, and electricity—intertwined over the cold AC smell, giving the mating bond behind my sternum a slight, painful twist.
I quickly glanced over, then pulled my eyes away.
The next second, I saw Edric. He was there, too, talking with a few corporate reps, the family crest on his cuff flashing in the light.
He noticed me, and a flicker of surprise crossed his eyes, but I coldly looked away.
"Did he know you were coming?" Elmer asked, keeping his voice low.
I shook my head. "He shouldn't have."
Lately, Archer and I only interacted briefly, usually bec
