Lyra's POV
The tension in Alaric's office was suffocating when I stepped through the door. His eyes held that familiar darkness, jaw locked tight as he shoved the rotary phone across his mahogany desk toward me. No words passed between us, but his burning stare followed my every movement as I lifted the receiver with trembling fingers.
"Hello?" My voice came out barely above a whisper.
"Finally!" Vivienne's voice burst through the speaker, making me wince. "I've been dying to hear from you since the Destiny ended. Please tell me you're basking in newfound happiness with your mate."
I pressed my eyes shut, dreading this conversation. "Not exactly."
"What do you mean?" Her tone shifted immediately, concern bleeding through.
