Ahicia hurried back to her room, her cheeks still flushed from the earlier intimacy with Damian. Her mind raced as she sifted through her wardrobe, searching for something appropriate yet elegant to wear. Finally, she settled on a deep emerald gown that hugged her figure gracefully, its flowing fabric trailing behind her as she moved.
Taking a moment to steady her nerves, she glanced at her reflection in the mirror. She adjusted her hair and smoothed the fabric of her gown, her crimson eyes betraying the hint of anxiety that lingered beneath her composed facade.
When she returned to the drawing room, her steps faltered as her gaze landed on Anara. The fox-shifter was stunning. Her wavy brown hair framed her face in soft cascades, and her vivid green eyes glimmered like polished emeralds. She exuded an effortless grace, her posture poised and confident. Even in her understated attire, Anara commanded attention, a natural charisma radiating from her every movement.
Ahicia felt a fierce wave of admiration and something else she couldn't quite place. She found herself momentarily breathless, captivated by Anara's presence.
Anara's sharp gaze flicked to Ahicia, her full lips curving into a sly smile. "So, you must be Ahicia," she said, her voice smooth and melodic. "I've heard so much about you."
Ahicia blinked, gathering her composure. "And you are…?"
Before Anara could respond, Selene stepped forward, her own striking features softened by a knowing smirk. "This is Anara," she said, gesturing to the fox-shifter. "My closest friend and partner in crime. And I see she's already made quite the impression."
Ahicia's ears twitched slightly, and she forced a polite smile. "It's nice to meet you," she said, her voice steady despite the slight unease she felt under Anara's intense gaze.
Anara inclined her head, her smile never wavering. "The pleasure is mine," she said, her tone laced with curiosity. "I've been looking forward to meeting the woman who's managed to keep Damian's attention."
Ahicia's cheeks flushed again, but she said nothing, unsure of how to respond.
Damian stepped into the room then, his presence commanding immediate attention. His golden eyes swept over the group, lingering briefly on Ahicia before settling on his sister and her friend.
Before anyone could speak, Anara let out a delighted squeal and darted toward Damian. In one swift motion, she jumped on him, wrapping her arms around his neck in a tight hug. "Damian!" she exclaimed, her tone playful and affectionate. She leaned in and pecked his cheek, the gesture casual yet intimate.
Ahicia stood frozen, her crimson eyes wide with disbelief. A sharp pang of anger flared in her chest, her tail stiffening behind her as she watched the scene unfold. "I see you've all been introduced," he said, his tone neutral but edged with a hint of irritation.
Selene's smirk widened. "Don't worry, brother. We'll play nice."
Damian's gaze narrowed. "I'll hold you to that." He turned to Ahicia, his expression softening. "Are you alright?"
Ahicia nodded, her tail swishing slightly behind her. "I'm fine."
Anara watched the exchange with keen interest, her green eyes sparkling. "How adorable," she murmured, earning a sharp look from Damian.
The atmosphere in the room shifted, a mixture of tension and intrigue settling over the group. As the conversation continued, Ahicia couldn't shake the feeling that she had just stepped into a game where every move mattered. Anara's beauty and charisma were undeniable, but there was a sharpness beneath her charm that hinted at danger.
Ahicia resolved to stay on her guard, even as she felt a newfound determination to prove she belonged by Damian's side.