CALHOUN
I lean down and whisper into Valerie's ear.
“Don't accept anything from anyone without my approval,” I say quietly. “Give me a nod if you understand. And find somewhere to stay until the auction starts.”
She nods immediately.
Satisfied, I straighten and walk toward the bar.
The place is packed to the brim with shifters and humans, witches and creatures I probably don't even recognize. Jude handles all the invitations for the gala, and judging by the crowd tonight, he has done an excellent job.
Everyone is dressed beautifully.
The women sparkle beneath the warm lights, draped in expensive fabrics and jewelry and the men carry themselves with confidence, dressed in tailored suits worth more than some people's houses.
Yet beneath all the glamour, I can feel it.
Aura and power
