Book 2: Chapter 21

Ares adjusted his suit, the fabric settling perfectly over his broad shoulders. He took a moment to compose himself, smoothing his hair back and straightening his tie. With a final glance at the door Martina had just exited, he turned on his heel and made his way back into the hall.

The grand ballroom was still buzzing with the hum of conversation, the air thick with the scent of expensive perfumes and the soft clinking of champagne glasses. Ares's sharp eyes scanned the crowd until they landed on Sophie and Antonio, standing near the bar.

Sophie’s eyes lit up as she saw him approaching. "Ares, where have you been?" she asked, a playful pout on her lips. Her emerald green dress clung to her curves, drawing more than a few admiring glances from the men around her.

Ares ignored her question, his focus shifting to Antonio. "We're heading home now," he said curtly.

Antonio nodded without question. "Yes," he replied, downing the last of his drink and setting the g