Lara slowly descended the grand spiral staircase, one hand lightly brushing against the polished mahogany railing.
She wore a soft yellow sundress that fell just below her knees, the delicate fabric swaying gently with every step she took. On her feet were fluffy wolf-head slippers with floppy ears—an adorable pair Shay had insisted on buying in matching designs for both of them.
Under the warm chandelier lights, Lara looked soft, youthful… almost fragile.
But the moment her eyes landed on the figures emerging from the side room together, her steps abruptly halted.
Ares.
And Scarlet.
Walking out at the same time.
Lara's fingers instinctively tightened around the banister.
When did Scarlet come back?
A strange tightness spread through her chest, sharp and uncomfortable.
Scarlet was smiling faintly as she walked beside Ares, looking perfectly at ease in his presence, as though she belonged there.
The sight made Lara's stomach twist.
