Chapter 0052

The crowd swallows me whole.

Unmated females press closer, their questions buzzing like gnats around my head. When will I take my father's place? Will there be a celebration? Have I found my destined mate?

My answers are automatic.

All my attention is fixed across the room where Evelyn stands.

Sebastian and his warriors have cornered her near the bar. Their eyes keep dropping to the emerald pendant resting against her collarbone—the exact shade of Selene's eyes when the moonlight hits them just right.

Theron snarls inside my skull.

Move. Now.

Before I can escape the circling vultures, Bianca shoves her way to my side. Her perfume cloys like rotting roses.

Then I spot him.

Sebastian Nightshade strides through the doorway, scanning the room with predator's focus. When his gaze lands on Evelyn, my canines lengthen.

"Alpha Grey? Are you unwell?" Some doe-eyed girl touches my arm.

"Fine." I shake her off without breaking eye contact with the interloper. "Have you seen my parents?"

Bianca seizes the opportunity. "They're by the stage, darling. Shall I—"

"No."

I shoulder through the crowd just as Sebastian leans in to whisper something that makes Evelyn's cheeks flush pink. Theron howls with rage.

My father's voice booms across the gathering before Sebastian can finish whatever poison he's dripping in her ear.

The speech is predictable—legacy, leadership, finding a Luna worthy of the Grey bloodline.

When he tosses me the Porsche keys, the weight of expectation settles on my shoulders heavier than the metal in my palm.

Then the moment arrives.

Mic in hand, I lock eyes with Evelyn as the opening chords of Perfect fill the air.

"Evelyn Sinclair." My voice carries across the silent room. "Dance with me."

Sebastian goes rigid.

Evelyn's gasp is audible. She stares at my outstretched hand like it might bite her.

When her fingers finally brush mine, electricity arcs up my arm.

Theron purrs.

Mine.