LUCIAN’S POV
The moment Sera stepped out of Kieran’s car, the world seemed to narrow around her.
The night air caught the edge of her gown—black satin with a glint of gold—and for one heartbeat, I forgot how to breathe.
She was truly a stunning creature, whether decked in snow-crusted gear and bruises or in a gorgeous gown.
Her story told itself—a phoenix rising from ashes to become the champion of the LST, and eventually, my Luna. And a glorious one she would be.
But then the world expanded around her, and I saw him.
Her hand still rested in Kieran’s from when he’d helped her out of the car. His other hand braced on the door, his grip tightening as though it were the only thing anchoring him to the ground.
His tie—black with gold stripes—matched the trim of her dress.
The realization hit like a blade slipped between my ribs: coordinated, whether by accident or design.
And when Daniel hopped out of the backseat, the knife twisted.
