The grand ballroom below was still filled with loud music, clinking champagne glasses, and the excited chatter of rich guests. But for Clara, the entire world went completely quiet. Her small hand remained inside her black designer purse, her fingers wrapped tight around the mysterious black velvet box that Arthur Pendelton had secretly slipped inside just moments ago.

Lucian stood right beside her, his massive frame towering over her like a broad wall of pure muscle and iron. His sharp dark eyes scanned the crowded hallway, noticing the sudden change in her posture.

"Clara?" Lucian asked, his deep voice dropping into a low, protective growl that vibrated against her shoulder....