River's smile faded. Her fingers tightened slightly around her wine glass.
She opened her mouth, uncertain whether she should speak—but before she could utter a word, Ahmed stood from his chair and stretched.
“Ah, and that is my cue to make myself scarce,” he said, winking at River. “Have a good night, everyone.”
He bent to kiss Alia’s temple and gave Heiko a respectful nod before walking out of the dining room, leaving the atmosphere suddenly heavier, more intimate.
Heiko cleared his throat.
“I believe this conversation would run better in a more private place,” he said, voice steady but serious.
Alia’s brows arched in interest, but she said nothing. She simply rose from her chair with a graceful sweep of her deep burgundy gown.
“Follow me.”
Without another word, the Alpha Queen t
