The grand venue of Cullen's thirtieth anniversary was already alive with movement when Aveline arrived. Her entire team surrounded her, filled with excitement and energy. It was their first big event, and their enthusiasm fed into her steady confidence.
From a distance, Alaric's eyes trailed after her. For the past two weeks, she hadn't once imagined Damien around her. And Damien was already behind the bar.
But Aveline hadn't told him what weighed on her heart either. At times, it made him wonder if she didn't trust him enough. But deep down, he knew, Aveline trusted him with her whole life.
Which only left him thinking… what could be so difficult for her that she couldn't bring herself to share?
His lips curved faintly when she turned to wave at him one last time before disappearing into the venue.
Settling back in his seat, he instructed Ezra in his cool, firm tone once the car rolled forward, "Set two guards at the venue. Protect her, while helping her if she needs it."
….
