The limousine glided to a stop, and Lyra felt her heart leap into her throat. Through the tinted windows, she could see the flashes of cameras and the surge of elegantly dressed attendees.
"Ready?" Damien asked, his voice low and intimate. His hand found hers, giving it a reassuring squeeze.
Lyra nodded, not trusting her voice. As Damien opened the door, the sounds of the gala washed over her - the excited chatter of the crowd, the calls of photographers, the soft strains of classical music drifting from inside.
Damien emerged first, cutting a striking figure in his tuxedo. He turned, offering his hand to Lyra. Taking a deep breath, she grasped it, allowing him to help her from the car.
The moment she stepped onto the red carpet, Lyra was nearly blinded by the flashing lights. Photogra
