KIERAN’S POV
I hadn’t forgotten the plan.
Public distance. Cordial indifference. No whispers of reconciliation until we identified our enemy.
I knew it.
I agreed to it.
I understood why it was necessary.
But that didn’t mean I liked it one fucking bit.
From my position near the staircase, I had a clear view of the dance floor—and of her.
Sera moved with Astrid Volker in a controlled, effortless waltz. Astrid’s emerald gown contrasted sharply with the obsidian silk hugging Sera’s frame.
Under the chandelier light, Sera looked like midnight given shape, silver flickering through her dress as she turned. Each time Astrid’s hand settled at her waist, something low and territorial coiled inside my chest.
“She’s dancing with a woman,” Gavin drawled from beside me, following my line of sight. “You look like you’re about to declare war.”
“I’m evaluating,” I said flatly.
“Right. With murder in your eyes.”
I ignored him.
