Chapter 99: Hannah

The town car pulled up to The Eclipse, an upscale downtown restaurant, its sleek lines gleaming under the streetlamps. I eyed the place with apprehension and curiosity; Noah hadn't brought me here before. What kind of event was this?

Noah exited first, straightening his tuxedo jacket as the driver opened my door. He offered his hand, and I took it warily, half-expecting his usual gruffness. Instead, he gently squeezed my fingers before gesturing toward the entrance. "Shall we?"

With a huff, I let him escort me up the steps. A sharply dressed host waited, his expression polite. "Alpha Noah," he said, bowing deeply. "Luna Hannah. This way."

He ushered us toward the elevators. The elevator's arrival sent a flutter of nerves through me. Noah's behavior was bizarre—oddly gentlemanly. I couldn't shake the feeling he had an ulterior motive, or that I'd been replaced by Zoe. A smirk touched my lips. Maybe I should check a mirror.

"Your party is on the top floor," the host said as we entered the elevator. "Enjoy your experience."

"Thank you," Noah replied as the doors closed.

Only when we were alone did I speak. "What's all this about, Noah? If this is another—"

"Patience, Hannah," he interrupted, his voice low. His chin tilted down, a soft glint in his eyes. "You'll see soon enough."

The elevator ride was silent, except for my pounding heart. My curiosity intensified. I supposed I'd find out soon.

The doors opened to reveal a luxurious private event space. Soft music and conversation spilled into the hallway; I glimpsed chandeliers and white tablecloths.

"After you," Noah murmured, his breath on my neck as he gestured.

I stepped into the dimly lit space, spotting familiar faces among the well-dressed crowd. It was a high-society event, Alphas and Lunas networking. Nothing more.

Almost immediately, a towering figure approached. "Alpha Noah!" The booming voice belonged to Alpha Matthias, from a neighboring pack. I hadn't seen him or his wife in a long time.

"Evening, Alpha Matthias," Noah replied respectfully. "It's been too long, my friend."