Confrontation in Candlelight

ROMAN

I stood at the edge of the grand ballroom, my gaze cutting through the sea of masks and gowns like a predator tracking its prey. The Moonstone Pack had spared no expense for their masquerade. Crystal chandeliers cast golden light across marble floors, while strategically placed candles created intimate shadows perfect for secrets and stolen glances.

Perfect for my purposes tonight.

My wolf stirred restlessly beneath my skin, responding to her scent even before I spotted her. Vanessa. My mate. The woman who'd disappeared from my life six years ago, taking something irreplaceable with her.

"Alpha, the Blackwood delegation just arrived," Marcus murmured beside me, adjusting his simple black mask. "No sign of Sterling yet."

"He'll come," I replied, taking a flute of champagne from a passing server. "He won't leave his fiancée unattended for long."