Chapter 32

Gasps filled the grand hall as my body tilted dangerously forward. My hands grasped at empty air, panic surging through me.

But before I could tumble down the stairs, a strong arm caught me.

The world seemed to slow as I found myself pulled against a firm chest, the scent of cedarwood and spice wrapping around me. My breath hitched, and I blinked up—straight into the piercing gaze of..

Tristan Caldwell.

He looked infuriatingly gorgeous.

Dressed in a black suit, tailored to perfection, he radiated an effortless confidence that made it impossible to look away.

His dark hair was neatly styled, but a few strands had rebelliously fallen over his forehead. Sharp cheekbones, strong jaw, those impossibly blue eyes that held a flicker of amusement—it was almost unfair how striking he was.

"Careful," he murmured, his voice smooth and velvety, as if this was all some grand joke to him.

I exhaled shakily. "Thank you."