The afternoon sun cast a golden hue over Devon Manor as Darius approached the front door. Aria greeted him with a warm smile as she opened the door, However, a flicker of unease crossed Darius' face as he leaned in. There was something… different. The familiar scent of Aria, usually laced with a hint of wildflowers and wolf musk, was replaced by something unfamiliar, a touch too musky and sharp. He leaned closer, peering intently at her face. But before he could voice his suspicion, she spoke.
"Welcome, Darius," her voice was uncharacteristically saccharine, dripping with a sweetness Aria rarely employed. It sent a second wave of unease crashing over him.
Without hesitation, Darius reached out with a lightning-fast reflex, grabbing her arm and twisting it behind her back. He slammed her against the wall, his voice a low growl. "Who are you? And what have you done to Aria?"
