But then I reminded myself—this was Liana. My sister. And no matter how much time had passed, our bond was unbreakable.

I walked toward the entrance, spotting a maid nearby. “Excuse me,” I started, but she looked at me with an odd expression—disgust and horror, before scurrying away without a word.

I frowned. Was there something wrong with how I was dressed? Social events were never my strong suit, and maybe I looked out of place.

Shaking it off, I entered the grand foyer.

But before I could get far, a thundering growl echoed from above. My instincts flared up, but I held my ground, looking up.

A tall man descended the stairs. His Alpha dominance radiated off him like a suffocating wave. He was Liana’s mate, no doubt. She had spoken so highly of him, so I tried to stay calm.

“Hi, I’m—" I reached out, trying to introduce myself, but before I could finish, his hand came down hard across my face, sending me staggering back in shock.