78. Eclipse Ball

|| Lilac's POV || The moment I walked away from Alaric, my heart felt like it was being torn in two. The weight of his gaze lingered on me, the intensity of his grey eyes burning into my soul even as I turned my back on him. I couldn’t afford to let my emotions take over— not now, not when so much was at stake. But the ache in my chest was relentless, a constant reminder of the bond I was trying so hard to deny. As I moved through the grand hall, my eyes scanned the room, searching for Alexander. The Eclipse Ball was in full swing, the air filled with the hum of conversation and the clinking of glasses. The room was a sea of masks and gowns, the flickering candlelight casting a warm glow over the opulent decor. But amidst the glittering crowd, one figure caught my attention, and my breath hitched. Kael. He stood near the far wall, his tall frame commanding attention even in a room full of alphas. Beside him was Astrid Moonvale, her delicate features framed by her golden hair, and her f