Aria's POV
By the time we arrived at the Capitol Convention Center Ballroom that evening, my nerves were already frayed.
The private dining room Elena had reserved was elegant and intimate, with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the city and a table set for about fifteen people.
Elena immediately pulled me to sit beside her, which put me directly across from Damian. His dark gray eyes met mine, and I felt heat creep up my neck.
"Everyone, this is Aria Smith," Elena announced warmly, her hand resting on my shoulder. "Damian's mate."
The word hung in the air, making my face burn hotter. I felt every pair of eyes in the room turn to assess me.
"Aria, this is my brother Alex Moore and his wife Catherine," Elena continued, gesturing to an elegant couple in their fifties.
