8. Dominic

In the sanctumof his walk-in wardrobe, Dominic fastened the last button of his shirt, the silk fabric cool against his skin. The closet was a temple of luxury, with rows of impeccably tailored suits that hung like soldiers at attention, each one awaiting its turn to complement Dominic"s authoritative presence. Polished leather shoes, arranged by color and occasion, gleamed from their shelves. A collection of watches, each more expensive than some people"s cars, rested in a glass case that caught the light, casting prisms across the room.

Dominic stood before the full-length mirror, scrutinizing his reflection as he adjusted his tie. The knot sat perfectly against his collar, a symbol of the precision that governed his life. He reached for a timepiece, an exquisite platinum with intricate craftsmanship that subtly displayed his wealth and status, its weight a familiar comfort on his wrist as he secured it in place.

This would be the fifth birthday party he and his brothers, Xavier and Lucian, would attend this month, a whirlwind of social obligations that had become increasingly tiresome. Yet, as the heirs to the Davenport legacy, their presence was expected, especially now that they were in pursuit of an omega bride—a tradition upheld by their alpha family to ensure the continuation of their powerful bloodline.

Dominic emerged from his sanctuary, every inch the embodiment of power and sophistication. The penthouse living area, a cathedral of modern opulence, stretched before him with its soaring ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows that framed the city"s skyline in breathtaking panorama. The late afternoon sun cast a warm glow over the space, accentuating the rich textures and sleek lines that defined the Davenport aesthetic.

Dominic"s gaze fell upon his brothers, Xavier and Lucian, both impeccably dressed and exuding an aura of refined confidence that was the Davenport signature. Lucian lounged with effortless grace on the edge of an armchair, a glass of ruby-hued wine in hand, while Xavier occupied the adjacent sofa, his focus divided between the conversation and the tablet balanced on his knee.

Fingers gliding across the screen with practiced efficiency, Xavier said, "We should have the contracts signed within the week."

Lucian swirled the wine, inhaling its rich bouquet before taking a sip. "Excellent. That acquisition will solidify our foothold in the European markets." His gaze flickered up as Dominic approached. "Ah, there"s our esteemed leader. Harris, a glass for my brother as well."

The butler materialized soundlessly, offering Dominic a crystal tumbler filled with the same deep-crimson liquid. Dominic accepted it with a nod of acknowledgment, the familiar weight of authority settling over his shoulders.

Swirling the rich liquid in his glass, Dominic addressed his brothers. "Luc, have you ironed out the details with our contacts in Berlin?"

Lucian"s fingers drummed lightly against the armrest as he nodded. "Yes, the negotiations are in the final stages. They"re receptive to our proposals, but they"re looking for additional assurances on our end. They want to see a solid plan for integration that respects their business culture."

Xavier glanced up from his tablet, his expression thoughtful. "That"s to be expected. I"ve been working on adapting our software for better integration—localization is key. We might also need to consider a hybrid approach to the technology to ensure it aligns with their current infrastructure."

Dominic"s jaw tightened ever so slightly, a subtle shift that spoke volumes of his unwavering resolve. "Integration is fine, but we can"t afford to compromise on the control of our operations. Xavier, how soon can you implement the necessary technology updates?"

Tapping a few commands into the tablet, Xavier"s brow furrowed in calculation. "I can fast-track the development to have it ready for the next quarter, but it will require bringing in additional resources and possibly shifting some timelines for our current projects. We need to weigh the cost against the potential growth in that market."

Dominic"s gaze was unyielding, his voice carrying the weight of a man accustomed to having his demands met. "Cost isn"t the issue. What we should be concerned about is establishing Davenport"s presence there robustly. We can"t let the competition edge us out because we hesitated."

Lucian nodded in agreement, setting his glass down in a decisive motion. "Agreed. If we"re going to make a significant impact in Europe, we need to be swift and culturally intelligent about it. I suggest we plan a visit—to show we"re serious and committed."

"I"ll clear my schedule for next month." Dominic"s tone left no room for debate. "It"s about showing them the Davenport force in person. And while we"re at it, we need to ensure the local teams are under our directive. Can"t have loose ends."

Xavier"s fingers danced across the tablet once more, his expression one of focused concentration. "I"ll coordinate with RD to speed things up. But, Dom, make sure we"re not overreaching. Our infrastructure must support this expansion without overextending our current capabilities."

Dominic leveled his gaze at his brother, his voice carrying an edge of steel. "I"m not interested in half measures, Xav. Davenport Enterprises didn"t reach its position by playing it safe. But I hear you. We"ll expand responsibly."

Lucian"s lips curved into a knowing smile as he reached for his wineglass once more. "Excellent. I"ll solidify things on my end and ensure our partners understand that we"re not just investors—we"re long-term players in their market."

Xavier gave a curt nod of acknowledgment. "And I"ll make sure the technology we bring to the table is not just advanced, but adaptable and respectful of the technological diversity."

Dominic"s gaze swept over his brothers, a silent affirmation of their unified purpose. "Good. Remember, this is more than a business expansion; it"s about cementing our legacy and upholding the Davenport name."

Lucian checked his watch, letting out a reluctant sigh. "This is all well and good, but we should wrap up soon. We"re going to be late for that damned birthday party."

A muscle twitched in Dominic"s jaw, his displeasure evident at the reminder of their impending social obligation. Xavier, ever the voice of reason yet no less keen on avoiding the social charade, leaned back into the plush leather of the sofa.

"You two go ahead. I have no desire to subject myself to an evening of pointless chatter and insufferable partygoers. Especially that stuck-up bunch trying to inch their way up the social ladder. It"s all so tiresome."

Dominic crossed the room to stand beside Xavier, his posture rigid, his thoughts mirroring his brother"s distaste. "I"m with you on that, Xav. But it"s Grandfather"s mandate, and you know how he is. Attending these functions is part of our duty, like it or not. Grandfather won't hesitate to blow our ears off if we miss yet another high-profile social event. Plus, he"s adamant about us finding brides before year's end."

With a soft clink, Xavier set his tablet aside and met Dominic"s steel gaze with one equally firm. "As if parading in front of those vultures will get us any closer to legitimate partners. It"s all about appearances for them. They sniff around wealth and influence; they care nothing about who we are beyond the Davenport name."

Lucian rose from his chair, straightening the cuffs of his shirt as he moved toward them with a diplomat"s poise. "Unfortunately, our personal feelings toward these gatherings don't change the fact that they"re essential for maintaining our societal position. Not just for the company, but for Grandfather"s peace of mind."

Dominic exhaled slowly, his breath barely disturbing the air around him as he considered their patriarch's wishes. "He"s not going to let up on this marriage agenda either. We"ve avoided the topic long enough, and he's determined to see us settled. So, we'll endure tonight for the greater good, and who knows? The less we resist, the more bearable it might become."

Xavier pushed himself off the sofa with a reluctant gracefulness that belied his frustration. "Or more intolerable. But I see the merit in presenting a united front. Fine, but I"m setting a limit on how long I have to stay in that circus."

A small smirk played at Lucian's lips as he clapped a hand on Xavier's shoulder in camaraderie. "Deal. Let"s just make sure we stay out of the spotlight as much as possible. If we stick together, we can navigate the evening swiftly and without incident."

Dominic led the way to the private elevator. The descent was swift, the doors opening to reveal the subterranean garage that housed the brothers" impressive collection of vehicles.

The space was a gleaming monument to automotive luxury, with rows of sleek machines lining the floor like prized trophies. Supercars from the world"s most prestigious marques glistened under the recessed lighting, their curves and contours beckoning to be admired and driven with the same passion that had gone into their design.

Xavier cast a disdainful glance around the garage as they stepped onto the polished concrete floor. "I"m not driving tonight. No point in bothering, really. It"s not like I"ll be bringing anyone home from this farce of a party."

Lucian chuckled, his hand trailing over the flawless crimson finish of a Ferrari as they passed. "Come now, brother. You never know—there might be a rare gem among the vapid socialites, one who appreciates a man of your intellect."

With a dismissive wave, Xavier scoffed. "Doubtful. It"ll be the same old scene: people fawning over our status and wealth, oblivious to anything beyond the surface.No, thanks."

Dominic remained silent, his focus already shifting to the next task at hand. Lucian snagged a set of keys from the wall and tossed them to Dominic with an effortless flick of his wrist.

The keys caught the light as they spun through the air, and Dominic"s hand shot out with lightning reflexes, snatching them mid-arc. His gaze followed the trajectory, settling on the sleek silhouette of the Koenigsegg Gemera—a thirty-million-dollar masterpiece that even among this collection of rarities, commanded respect.

Dominic"s fingers closed around the keys, the metal warm against his palm as he turned toward the Swedish hypercar. Its sculpted body, rendered in a deep-obsidian hue, seemed to drink in the light, its aggressive lines promising an exhilarating drive.

Dominic strode toward the Gemera, his movements imbued with the same confidence and precision that governed his life. The others fell into step behind him, the soft purr of the engine coming to life as Dominic slid into the driver"s seat.

Dominic guided the Koenigsegg through the winding streets of the city, the powerful engine purring beneath them as they left the towering skyline behind. His hands gripped the steering wheel with a commanding presence, every movement deliberate and controlled.

As they drove farther into the suburbs, the scenery shifted from concrete and steel to lush greenery and sprawling estates. In the distance, the Sinclair manor rose majestically, its grand architecture reminiscent of a bygone era of opulence and grandeur.

The driveway curved through immaculately landscaped gardens lined with neatly trimmed hedges and vibrant floral displays. Dominic slowed the car, allowing his brothers to take in the full splendor of the estate as they approached.

The manor itself was a study in classic elegance, its imposing fa?ade adorned with intricate stonework and soaring columns that spoke of old-world craftsmanship. Tall windows reflected the last rays of the setting sun, their glass panes gleaming like jewels set in the manor"s stately frame.

As they neared the parking area, already crowded with a fleet of luxury vehicles, Xavier"s voice cut through the silence, dripping with disdain.

"I absolutely loathe these ridiculous social events filled with silly, vapid girls hovering around and staring at us like lovesick puppies. It"s nauseating."

Lucian chuckled, his tone laced with amusement. "Can you blame them, Xav? With your chiseled features and brooding demeanor, you look like a Greek god descended among mere mortals. Of course they can"t help but stare and hope to catch your eye."

Xavier scoffed, his gaze fixed on the manor as Dominic maneuvered the car into an empty spot. "Which is precisely why I prefer the company of mature, intelligent alpha or beta women. Especially in bed. I can"t fathom being with a girl who can"t even think for herself, let alone match my intellect."

Lucian"s lips curved into a knowing smile as he turned to face his brother. "Well, the odds of finding an omega who fits that criteria in our social circles are slim to none. Most mature, well-bred omegas are snatched up before they even hit twenty. They"re a rare commodity in high society."

Xavier"s eyes met Dominic"s in the rearview mirror, a challenge flickering in their depths. "Then I suppose it falls upon your shoulders, Dom, to carry on the family legacy. Once you take an omega bride, even if she"s lacking in mental faculties, Luc and I will be free to do as we please—remain bachelors and indulge in flings with whomever catches our eye. We"re not exactly lacking in options when it comes to attracting female attention."

Dominic"s jaw clenched as he grunted in response. "I have no intention of marrying any woman I don"t genuinely love. Settling for an omega simply to appease our family"s outdated expectations is out of the question."

He exited the Koenigsegg with a fluid motion, the evening air carrying the faint scent of freshly trimmed hedges and blooming flowers. His brothers followed suit, their collective presence commanding attention even before they reached the manor"s imposing entrance.

Mr. Sinclair, resplendent in an immaculately tailored suit, rushed forward to greet them, his face alight with delight. "Mr. Davenport, Mr. Davenport, Mr. Davenport! We"re absolutely honored to have you here tonight." His gaze swept over the triplets with undisguised awe. "Your presence elevates this event to new heights."

Dominic inclined his head in acknowledgment, his eyes coolly appraising the older man. "The pleasure is ours, Mr. Sinclair. We wouldn"t miss your daughter"s birthday celebration for anything."

Before Sinclair could respond, his wife appeared at his side, her smile radiant and welcoming. "Oh, you men look positively dashing! Come, come, let"s get you inside. Everyone is simply buzzing with anticipation to see you."

As they followed Mrs. Sinclair through the ornate double doors, Dominic felt the weight of countless eyes upon them—a familiar sensation, yet one that never failed to ignite a flicker of annoyance within him. The foyer was alive with whispers and furtive glances, the gathered guests openly staring at them with a mixture of admiration and curiosity.

Xavier"s jaw tightened imperceptibly as they moved deeper into the throng, his gaze flickering over the clusters of giggling young women who blushed and batted their lashes in their direction. "I feel like a fucking clown on display," he muttered under his breath, his disdain palpable.

A rich laugh burst from Lucian"s lips, his eyes sparkling with mirth. "That"s because you are, dear brother. We"re the main attraction, whether we like it or not." His teasing only served to draw more attention their way, a fresh wave of curious stares washing over them.

Dominic"s stride remained unwavering, his shoulders squared as he led them through the crowd with an air of unflappable authority. Yet, inwardly, a part of him bristled at the spectacle, the intrusive gazes stripping away the layers of his carefully constructed persona until all that remained was the Davenport name—a legacy that both empowered and shackled him.

* * *

Dominic movedthrough the lavish party with a practiced ease, exchanging pleasantries and accepting the flutes of champagne offered by hovering servers. His smile remained politely fixed as he made the rounds, acknowledging nods from the men in his social circle and enduring the cloying attention of young women who openly vied for his notice.

A few omegas caught his eye, their sweet scents hinting at their availability, but none stirred any real interest within him. They were beautiful, to be sure, but their beauty felt artificial, cultivated solely to attract a suitable mate rather than an expression of their inner selves.

Before long, Xavier and Lucian were whisked away by other partygoers, leaving Dominic alone amid the swirling crowd. Seizing the opportunity, he excused himself and slipped out through a set of French doors, seeking refuge in the tranquility of the gardens.

The cool evening air caressed his face as he stepped onto the stone path, the heady fragrance of night-blooming jasmine enveloping him. He inhaled deeply, allowing the familiar scent to soothe the tension that had begun to knot between his shoulders.

A soft, ethereal melody drifted toward him, carried on the gentle breeze. The notes were hauntingly beautiful, a stark contrast to the lively music emanating from the ballroom behind him. Curiosity piqued, Dominic followed the sound, rounding a corner to find its source.

There, bathed in the warm glow of lantern light, stood a young woman beside a bubbling fountain. Her pale-platinum hair cascaded down her back like a shimmering waterfall, and as she turned, Dominic found himself momentarily breathless at the sight of her delicate features and luminous eyes. But it was her voice that truly captivated him, weaving a spell of longing and yearning that seemed to reach into the depths of his soul. The lyrics, whispered like secrets on the wind, spoke of finding light in the shadows, of chasing echoes of a love never kissed.

Dominic"s gaze remained riveted on the enchanting figure before him as the haunting melody washed over him. The world fell away, the noise of the party fading into a distant murmur as her song wrapped around him like a warm embrace, its haunting beauty stirring something deep within his chest.

"There you are, brother." Lucian"s voice broke through the stillness, yet it seemed to Dominic as if he heard it from afar. He turned to see his siblings approaching, Lucian"s brow furrowed in curiosity.

"Time"s up, we"re leaving this shit show," Xavier grumbled, his words laced with the same distaste they all felt for these vapid social obligations.

Dominic raised a hand to his lips, silently imploring them to be quiet. There was an almost desperate need within him to preserve the ethereal moment, to bask in the serenity this mysterious young woman"s performance had weaved around them.

Curiosity sparked in his brothers" eyes, drawn into the silence that Dominic had wrapped around them. Together, they approached, their gazes following the line of Dominic"s enraptured stare. As the delicate figure came into view, both men stilled, their eyes widening in awe. Xavier"s and Lucian"s expressions mirrored Dominic"s own captivation. The young woman"s albinism rendered her an otherworldly creature, her skin porcelain in the moonlight, eyes like precious stones reflecting an inner light.

She transitioned seamlessly from her song into a dance, her movements fluid and ethereal. Her body swayed with a grace that defied gravity, every step and turn executed with an elegance that seemed to belong to another realm. She was the embodiment of the music itself, a living muse whose performance transcended mere entertainment.

Her arms lifted as if she were about to take flight, fingers trailing through the air like delicate brushstrokes painting unseen pictures. She twirled, her platinum hair fanning out around her in a halo of light. With each pirouette and graceful leap, she appeared to float above the ground, a spirit dancing on the edge of reality. Her motions grew bolder, her arms unfurling like the wings of a dove. Her body swayed and dipped, each movement punctuated by the lilt of her crystalline voice. It was as if she had become one with the melody, an embodiment of the longing and freedom her lyrics spoke of.

The brothers stood transfixed, the world around them fading into obscurity as they were swept into the spell she weaved. Dominic"s heart raced, his palms growing damp as an unfamiliar ache blossomed in his chest—a profound yearning to possess this ethereal creature, to shelter her from the harsh realities that had thus far been kept at bay by the sanctuary of her song.

Lucian swallowed hard, his eyes glazed with an intensity that mirrored the hunger Dominic felt simmering beneath his skin. Even Xavier, ever the pragmatist, seemed momentarily unmoored, his gaze devouring every graceful arch and sweeping gesture as if committing them to memory.

The last note of the song hung in the air, a poignant echo of the beauty that had just unfolded before them. As the music ceased, so did the girl"s movements, her body coming to rest with an elegance that spoke of both completion and reluctance to let go of the moment.

Then, unbidden, laughter bubbled up from her lips, a sound as melodic and genuine as the song she"d just shared. It was a laugh that seemed to spring from a well of joy within her, pure and unguarded. The sound tugged at Dominic"s heartstrings, an unexpected pang of something warm and tender blooming in his chest.

She looked so free in her mirth, so entirely at ease with herself. Her head thrown back, the moonlight casting an ethereal glow upon her features, she was a vision of innocent delight.

In that moment, she seemed more vibrant than any other living creature he"d encountered, radiating a pure, effervescent happiness that was utterly captivating. It was as if her soul had taken physical form, unfurling its brilliant wings and soaring through the night sky, unbound by the constraints that tethered mere mortals to the earth.

A profound sense of awe washed over Dominic, mingling with a fierce protectiveness he could scarcely comprehend. This exquisite being before him was a precious jewel, a delicate flame that must be shielded from the harsh winds that sought to extinguish its brilliance.

He found himself leaning forward, drawn in by her infectious mirth, every fiber of his being yearning to bask in her radiant warmth.

Lucian, ever the least cautious of them, shifted his weight forward, his shoes coming down on a dead branch. The crack pierced the stillness. The girl"s laughter cut off abruptly as she spun toward the source of the noise.

In that instant, Dominic saw fear flash across her delicate features—an instinctual response that clenched his heart with concern. She looked like a frightened rabbit caught in an open field, eyes wide and body tensed for flight.

With swift movements that spoke of urgency, she grabbed her phone and began to smooth out her dress with quick hands. She glanced once more in their direction before turning on her heel and hurrying back inside.

Lucian"s softly exclaimed "Wow" lingered in the space between them as they watched her retreat. His voice held a note of wonder mixed with a hint of regret for having startled her.

Xavier"s keen observation followed suit. "She runs off like she"s being chased," he mused aloud, his analytical mind already turning over the possibilities behind her sudden flight.

Dominic frowned at his brothers" words, his protective instincts rising to the fore. What could instill such fear in someone who moments ago had been the very picture of serenity? His gaze lingered on the path she"d taken, the shadows swallowing up her retreating figure.

Back in the ballroom, Dominic"s gaze cut through the crowds, every muscle taut with purpose as he ascended the staircase. Reaching the balcony that encircled the room, he scanned the throng below. The chandeliers cast a golden hue over the guests, illuminating a sea of opulence and gaiety. But none of that mattered to him; his focus was singular, his mission clear: find her.

Xavier and Lucian flanked him, also searching, drawn by the same intrigue that had captivated them all in the gardens.

"There," Lucian said, his finger subtly pointing toward a figure. "Isn"t that her?"

Dominic"s steel-gray eyes narrowed as they settled upon the girl, now being paraded around the ballroom by an older woman with an air of practiced sophistication. He watched as the woman introduced the girl to various guests, her smile never wavering despite the stiff set of the girl"s shoulders.

"Is that her mother or some sort of chaperone?" Lucian said, his voice carrying an undercurrent of concern.

Xavier scoffed softly. "More like a dragon eager to climb the social ladder. Look at her, dragging the poor girl around like a trophy." His tone dripped with disdain for the woman"s calculated behavior.

Before Dominic could comment, Mr. Sinclair approached them with a wide, ingratiating smile that did little to hide his ulterior motives.

"Gentlemen, I trust you are finding the party to your liking? Perhaps considering asking some of our lovely young women to dance?" His eyes flicked pointedly toward Evelyn Sinclair, who stood among her friends like a queen among courtiers.

Dominic offered a polite but noncommittal smile in response. "Actually," he said, leaning slightly toward the man with feigned casual interest, "who is that woman there?"

Sinclair's eyes followed Dominic"s line of sight and chuckled softly. "Ah, that would be Meredith Whitmore, wife of Gregory Whitmore." He leaned in conspiratorially. "Greg practically begged an acquaintance, who in turn entreated me, to extend an invitation to them, solely so Meredith could showcase their adopted daughter. Asa"s her name."

Lucian echoed softly to himself, almost inaudibly, "Asa… that"s a beautiful name."

Excusing himself with a curt nod to Sinclair, Dominic descended the staircase, his brothers in tow. They moved with a purposeful grace toward the gathering of society"s elite, where Meredith Whitmore was introducing her daughter to a circle of influential alpha women.

The air was thick with expectation, every word and gesture calculated for maximum impact. One of the women, her tone laced with condescension, asked Asa, "And what of your education? Have you been properly prepared to manage a household and support your future husband?"

Asa"s response was quiet but clear, "I… I"ve studied the appropriate subjects. Etiquette, household management, the arts…" Her voice trailed off as if she were reciting from memory rather than speaking from passion.

As Dominic and his brothers approached, a hush fell upon the crowd. Whispers fluttered like moths drawn to flame as heads turned and eyes followed their every move. The air of anticipation grew palpable as they came to stand before the gathered group, Dominic positioning himself directly before Asa.

The girl looked up at him with wide eyes full of stunned surprise. Meredith rushed over, her eagerness barely contained as she sought to bridge the gap between their social standing and that of the Davenports.

"Mr. Davenport, Mr. Davenport, and Mr. Davenport," she gushed, pulling Asa along with her. "Allow me to introduce my daughter, Asa."

Dominic inhaled deeply as Asa"s sweet omega scent reached him—a bouquet of vulnerability and strength mingling together into an intoxicating essence that beckoned him closer. His alpha stirred within him, an instinctual growl echoing through his head—Mine!

With a measured calmness that belied his inner turmoil, Dominic extended his hand toward Asa. "Would you care to dance?" he asked.

Asa hesitated. Then came Meredith"s subtle nudge, a reminder of expectations, and Asa"s hand slipped into his own.

Gently but firmly, he led her onto the dance floor, aware of every eye upon them. Her hand felt like the most precious thing he had ever held—fragile yet filled with an unexpected strength that resonated deep within him.

Dominic drew Asa close, her delicate form fitting perfectly against his broad chest as the waltz began. Her hand trembled ever so slightly in his grasp, a fluttering heartbeat he could feel echoing through her skin. With a reassuring smile, he guided her into the first steps of the dance.

As they moved across the floor, Asa"s initial trepidation melted away, her body relaxing into the rhythm. Dominic marveled at how effortlessly she followed his lead, her movements graceful and fluid like the gentle lapping of waves against the shore.

Her pale hair fanned out behind her with each turn, a platinum halo shimmering under the ballroom"s golden light. Up close, her scent enveloped him—an intoxicating blend of delicate florals and rich, earthy notes that stirred his alpha instincts into a dizzying frenzy.

Catching her gaze, Dominic found himself drowning in the ethereal depths of her eyes. They shone with an innocent wonder, a purity that both soothed and ignited a fierce protectiveness within him.

As the music swelled, he pulled her closer still, their bodies moving as one across the parquet floor. Then, in a daring move, he lifted her into the air, her skirts billowing around them like a cloud. Asa"s delighted laughter rang out, bright and unrestrained, a sound that reverberated through Dominic"s very soul.

In that moment, suspended between heaven and earth, her joy was contagious. Dominic felt his own lips curve into a rare, unguarded smile as the musical peals of her mirth washed over him. It was as if her happiness had the power to unlock something deep within him—a part of himself he had long kept buried beneath layers of responsibility and control.

As he lowered her back down, her feet once again finding the floor, Dominic found himself inexplicably reluctant to let her go. He yearned to hold on to this fleeting moment of lightness, to bask in the warmth of her unguarded delight for just a little while longer.

The sweet, heady aroma of her omega pheromones swirled around them, igniting a primal hunger within him. His alpha instincts roared to life, every fiber of his being aching to claim her, to pull her close and drink in her essence until it became a part of his very being.

Dominic"s grip tightened fractionally, his body thrumming with a fierce need to possess this ethereal creature who had so thoroughly captivated him—mind, body, and soul.

Dominic"s gaze held hers, his eyes intense yet filled with an unmistakable tenderness. He leaned in close, his hand nudging her chin up. "Asa, my sweet Asa…" Then he straightened and turned on his heel, his broad shoulders cutting a path through the stunned crowd. Lucian and Xavier fell into step behind him, their movements mirroring the assured confidence of their eldest brother.

As the Davenport brothers strode out of the ballroom, a hush fell over the gathered guests. All eyes followed their departure, a palpable aura of awe and curiosity rippling through the room. It was as if the very air had been charged by their presence, leaving a vacuum in their wake that begged to be filled.

Dominic did not look back, his focus unwavering as he led his brothers out into the cool night air. Yet with every step, he could still feel the phantom weight of Asa in his arms, the lingering scent of her omega essence clinging to him like a siren"s call.