Elara
We arrived quickly without hitting traffic.
The upscale restaurant had a warm, intimate atmosphere. Crystal chandeliers cast a soft glow over rich wood paneling.
Inside the private room, people were scattered in small groups. Some were drinking, others playing cards.
The room buzzed with conversation and laughter. I could smell expensive cologne mixed with whiskey and leather.
I spotted Yardley among them. This confirmed these were indeed Dominic's close friends.
"Well, look who's here. Alpha King himself. You're quite hard to pin down these days," someone called out.
All eyes turned toward us. I felt suddenly self-conscious under their scrutiny, like I was being evaluated.
Dominic guided me with a light touch on my lower back as we walked over.
His touch
