Chapter 14

Lyra’s POV

My jaw dropped when I saw the scene before me. Hadn’t Alistair told me we were just going to meet his family? Instead, the grand doorway opened onto what looked more like a lavish ball than a simple family gathering. Crystal chandeliers glittered overhead, casting prismatic light across polished marble floors. Women in sweeping gowns glided past, laughter echoing off tall pillars. Men in tuxedos bowed, clinking champagne flutes. My pulse quickened, and a wave of panic hit me—I’ve always hated crowds, and this was overwhelming.

“Are you okay?” Alistair’s voice reached me, warm but tinged with concern. My eyes remained glued to the glowing interior as I managed a shaky nod.

“Let’s go inside.” He took my hand gently, guiding me toward the entrance. I looked at him in confusion. His brow was furrowed with worry, and he waited. I nodded again, but my feet felt rooted to the ground.

Before I could protest, he swept me off my feet in a smooth, conf