14. Carys' Entrance

[Kian]

The reception began late at night. It was organized in the private forest owned by the Nightfall family. Although it was a forest area, the arrangements for the party were made in the open meadow.

A pergola, adorned with the lush growth and colorful night blooms of the climbing plants, served as the entrance from the palace to the reception spot.

They arranged special lapis lazuli and marble chairs and tables in the open for the guests, complementing the party’s theme: blue.

“Alpha!” This was the fourth time Jackson had called out to me. I wasn’t ignoring him. I just didn’t want to answer. “Our men have secured the data you wanted…”

“I know,” I replied.

“Well… then, should I prepare for the return?”

My gaze remained fixed on the entrance, on everyone who entered through it—everyone except her.

I wanted to stay… a little longer.

“Hey, Kian! Have you seen Christian?” Levi rushed to me, panting.

The world, as always, was moving faster with every second while I… I remained trapped