An Alpha's Gaze, A Mysterious Call

The music pounded through my body as I swayed to the beat, pretending I was having the time of my life. But my attention kept drifting to the VIP section where Rhys sat with his entourage. Even across the crowded club, his presence felt like a physical weight pressing down on me.

"Girl, you need another drink," Seraphina shouted over the music, noticing my distraction. She waved at a passing server who quickly appeared at our table.

"I'm fine," I insisted, but Sera was already ordering another round.

The club's energy had shifted the moment Rhys Knight and his friends had walked in. Julian Mercer, Preston, and Caspian flanked him like the loyal soldiers they'd always been. They commanded attention without trying, drawing admiring glances from every woman they passed.

"I'm so sorry," Seraphina leaned in close, genuine regret in her eyes. "I had no idea he'd be here tonight."

I shrugged, aiming for nonchalance. "It's no big deal. That was a lifetime ago."