Eric's POV
Valeria’s soft breaths warmed the fabric of my trousers, brushing gently against my thigh. I shifted slightly, then looked up at Ali and Rose, saying, “You can go rest now. I’ll take care of it.”
Rose gasped. “How will that work? Luna Valeria is so drunk. Alpha Eric, you won’t be able to move her on your own!”
But Ali, always perceptive, held Rose back and said, “Alpha Eric, if you need anything, just call us.”
The lobby on the first floor settled into silence as they left. The crystal chandelier cast a gentle starlight over everything. Valeria was still draped across my lap, her coat spread like a fanned fishtail.
I hesitated, then braced my feet against the ground and rose slowly from the wheelchair, lifting her in my arms with ease. Her body felt so small, cradling again
