Not Styles

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CHAPTER 264

~Zara's POV~

Sterling's gaze flicked to me briefly before returning to Snow. "Simply to extend a warm welcome and express my admiration for your... lovely wife. The Eastern Colonies have heard much about her."

Snow's hand subtly tightened on my waist, a silent signal that didn't go unnoticed by Sterling, whose smile only grew sharper.

"Your reputation precedes you," Sterling continued, swirling his champagne lazily. "I've no doubt tonight's gathering will be... memorable."

Something about his words made goosebumps appear on my skin and I shuddered. Snow's expression remained unreadable, but I could feel the tension radiating off him.

"Let's hope so," Snow replied in a clipped tone.

Sterling inclined his head again before stepping back into the crowd, his parting words lingering like smoke. "Enjoy your evening, Lord Snow. Lady Zara."