The hallway was dimly lit, but Lena stood out like a dazzling star, impossible to ignore. Beyond her naturally striking features, tonight she looked exceptionally stunning in a silver sequin dress held up by two thin straps. The hem barely reached a third of her thighs, showing off her perfectly toned legs. Her prominent collarbones peeked out above the neckline, and below that, her curves were on full display. The fabric across her chest had deliberate ruching that made the silhouette both modestly suggestive and undeniably alluring. Her hair was half-tied, with a soft curl of bangs framing her face. The look combined a seductive elegance with a touch of wild charm. Alaric felt as though he’d taken a heavy blow to the chest. The four of them froze upon seeing each other, each with a dif