Page 73 of Blood & Snow

The cold air hits me immediately, but his grip is warm and steady.

He doesn't let go as we walk toward the house.

"Stay close to me tonight," he says quietly.

“Don't wander off. Don't talk to anyone unless I introduce you."

"Am I in danger?"

"You're with me. That's all that matters," he says, but I get the feeling that if I'm not on his arm I may be in danger.

I have no interest in leaving his side anyway.

At the entrance, two men in suits nod respectfully to Xander.

Their eyes linger on me for a moment, taking in the dress and jewelry, before looking away.

Inside, the house is warm and bright.

A massive tree dominates the front hall, covered in gold and silver ornaments.

Classical music plays softly in the background, and waiters move through the crowd carrying champagne.

I've never been anywhere this elegant.

Everything gleams—the marble floors, the crystal chandelier, the silk wallpaper.

Women in designer dresses and expensive jewelry chat with men in perfectly tailored suits.

Xander's hand settles on the small of my back, guiding me forward.

His touch burns through the dress.

"Remember," he murmurs against my ear, "you belong here. Act as though you do."

I straighten my shoulders and lift my chin.

The diamond necklace feels heavy around my throat, but I don't touch it.

I let Xander guide me deeper into the party, into his world, away from everything I used to be.

And despite every rational thought in my head telling me to run, I realize I don't want to leave.

I'm falling for him.

Not just attraction or the thrill of danger, but because of the way he looks at me and the way his voice softens when he says my name.

It's slightly terrifying but I've never felt safer than when I'm with him.

I'm his. For better or worse, I'm his.

XANDER

The house buzzes with conversation and clinking glasses.

Men I've known for years move through the crowd, their wives and girlfriends on their arms.