The security team quickly escorted Chris and Lily to a private lounge away from the party's chaos. The room was dimly lit with plush leather sofas, the crystal sconces casting warm, gentle shadows across mahogany-paneled walls. The thick carpet muffled their footsteps, creating an instant cocoon of silence that felt worlds away from the pulsing music beyond the doors. Lily's hands were still trembling as Chris helped her settle onto one of the couches. Even in crisis, he moved with that innate grace that had first drawn her to him, his presence commanding yet gentle.
"Here, drink this," Chris said softly, pressing a glass of water into her hands. His eyes, those piercing blue depths that seemed to see straight through to her soul, never left her face as he scanned for signs of distress. The tender authority in his voice made her feel simultaneously protected and cherished. "Are you okay, sweetheart? Did he hurt you?"
