etermined, anxious, hopeful. Something waited for her tonight, something significant,

iadne Kyros would step into a world far more dan

had irrevocably changed the moment she'd set foot

g her. Turning slowly, Ariadne opened it, her he

w of his lavish penthouse, hands clasped loosely behind his back. Stars stretched endless

game. Born into privilege, heir to the Ariston empire Elysion's wealthiest dynasty, he knew too well the emptiness behind the glitter

ting strength and discipline. Emerald eyes, sharp with intelligence, hinted at suppressed turmoil. Dark h

s desk blinked once, sil

s it, L

sitation. "All security arrangements for tonight are

ecurity chief. The muscular ex-soldier with rugged features and watchful brown e

?" Theon's voice was

tching. Selene Drakos

. "Then let her watch me, Lys

nder paused meaningfully. "Ever

smile to ghost his l

Selene isn't one y

n straightened, pushing thoughts

ne Kyros, the researcher from Thalassa

slightly. "Why

y scientists aren't t

er reasons. I'l

airs." The intercom clicked soft

sited once, years ago, a modest place, starkly different from the dazzling extravagance surrounding

glass of golden amber whiskey. The burn was familiar, sharp, centering him as it slid down

orld, auburn hair gleaming softly beneath the gala lights, eyes filled with nervou

oubled him mor

avy double doors pulled

vening gown that sparkled faintly silver against her pale skin. Raven

" Her voice was professional, smoo

Callista.

ng on yo

ell me about Ariadne Kyros.

on. "Her research is groundbreaking, revolutionary ev

's eyes narrowed slightly, searchin

Her voice softened. "I thought she might be an interesting addit

epticism clear. "I don't have t

y. "The best distractions

t med

pens afterward is entirely up to you." With a final pointed look, sh

ation simmering beneath careful control. Callista was clever,

ly down. This was his world, after all a world he controlled, shaped, dominated. Yet tonigh

o stared back held wealth, power, and an unshakable reputation. Yet behind that carefull

tor, steeling himself for the gala. If Ariadne Kyros was Callista's way of te

something deep inside whispered that control

diant hall filled with Elysion's glittering elite, his gaze imme