The next hour passes in a blur of names and faces. The Silvercrest pack members are genuinely welcoming, asking thoughtful questions about Moonvale, our work, and what we think of their territory so far. The atmosphere is relaxed and friendly.
Lucas is nowhere to be seen.
I notice his absence immediately and scan the room periodically as Lydia guides me through introductions. The alpha whose home this is, whose pack this is, isn’t even here to greet his guests?
He’s avoiding me. Again.
“Looking for someone?” Lydia asks.
She is too perceptive for my liking, as I am trying not to be obvious. “Just taking it all in,” I say smoothly. “Your pack is very welcoming.”
“We try. Lucas was very specific about making sure you all feel comfortable here.”
Lucas? Not Alpha Steele? The familiarity grates on my nerves for some reason. Does he let all his pack members call him by his first name?
I already know he doesn’t. The ones I met in Moonvale didn’t refer to him that way.
I accept another glass of champagne from a passing server and let Lydia introduce me to a group discussing security protocols. I smile and nod and participate in the conversation, but part of my attention is still searching.
Where is he?
Then, I see him. A glimpse of him, anyway—a shadow near a darkened doorway at the far end of the hall. He’s standing just inside what must be a corridor to his private wing. Partially concealed. Watching.
Our eyes meet, and I swallow nervously. Was he looking for me the way I’ve been looking for him? This may be my chance to speak with him.
I am completely wrong. Lucas does not acknowledge me. Instead, he disappears into the doorway. He knows I saw him; he just doesn’t care. I turn my face to the wall, my cheeks hot with both anger and embarrassment for getting my hopes up. Of course he’d ignore me again.
I move to pick up my third flute of champagne, and my arm knocks into someone who happened to try to pass at the same time.
“Oh! I’m sorry,” I say politely, grateful that the drink had not been in my hand yet. I look at the person I hit.
It’s a good-looking guy, mid-twenties, sandy hair, currently aiming a bright smile in my direction.
“It’s totally fine. Completely my fault. I got in your way,” he says pleasantly.
I vaguely recognize him as one of the Silvercrest pack members I was introduced to earlier. Carter? Connor? I can’t remember, but I give him a smile. “Thank you.”
I expect that to be the end of it, but he lingers, fully focused on me.
“You’ve been standing here alone for a while, Miss Carter,” he says warmly. “I was wondering if you’d like a tour of the estate? We have some beautiful architecture that’s not visible from the main hall.”
I glance at Lydia, who is currently occupied with my team several feet away, introducing them to some people. Well, it can’t hurt, can it? And a part of me really wants an excuse to go through that door where Lucas disappeared.
“That sounds great,” I say, allowing him to lead me.
His name is Colin, I learn as we walk. He works in territorial management and is clearly trying very hard to impress me. It’sflattering, if a bit transparent. He’s like a kid showing off his toys.
He leads me through corridors lined with portraits, pointing out historical details about the estate. I only half listen, more interested in the building itself than his commentary. There are so many doorways; I can’t figure out which one Lucas went through.
We end up in a lovely room with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, comfortable reading chairs, and a massive fireplace. It’s beautiful in a severe, functional way.
“This is the grand library. All of Silvercrest’s history and knowledge is here,” Colin says, shutting the door behind us before moving closer to me. “I like it because it’s quiet. Private.”
There’s an edge to his voice that gives me pause. I take a step toward the door. “We should probably get back to the party—”
“We have time,” he says, and suddenly he’s much closer. His hand reaches out to touch my arm. “I’ve been wanting to talk to you alone since you arrived.”
Warning bells go off in my head. “Wait, what are you—”
