Lirien's POV
The night of the gala had finally arrived.
I stood in front of the full length mirror in our bedroom, staring at my reflection. The formal black suit Vael had chosen for me fit perfectly, tailored, elegant, with subtle silver threading that caught the light. A simple black mask rested on the dresser beside me, ready to be worn. My silver white hair had been styled neatly, and I looked… different. More polished. Like I belonged in this world of wealth and danger.
But inside, my stomach was in knots.
Vael stepped up behind me, already dressed in a sharp black tuxedo that made him look every inch the powerful Alpha he was. He placed his hands on my shoulders and met my eyes in the mirror.
"You look incredible," he said softly. "Are you nervous?"
I nodded, swallowing hard. "Terrified. This isn't just a party, is it? It's a test."
