By the left side of Mr Lucas, Alexander Lucas leaned back in his seat, his sharp features unreadable, but his stormy gaze lingered on Ariel for a second longer than necessary.

Unlike the rest, his presence carried an edge—one that spoke of silent power rather than spoken authority.

The moment their eyes locked, an unsettling feeling crawled up her spine—a feeling she couldn’t explain.

Ariel's heartbeat pounded in her ears, drowning out everything else. Her breath hitched, her fingers trembling slightly as she fought the overwhelming sensation gripping her chest.

Why is he here? His he part of the Lucas family? She questioned inwardly.

Ariel's lips parted slightly, but no...