The opulent lobby of the White Blossoms Hotel shimmered under the crystal chandeliers, a stark contrast to the storm brewing in Levi's heart. He spotted her instantly, just as Justin had described: Anya, perched on a plush velvet chair near the ornate fountain, her gaze darting nervously around the room.
A knot of anger tightened in his stomach. He remembered how frustrated he had felt when she disagreed and how he had spent countless sleepless nights trying to convince Lyse of his honesty. Anya seemed to have disappeared, despite the fact that he had sent people to search for her. Now, here she was, back in his life, a ghost from his past resurrected and not soon enough.
He moved towards her with a determined stride, his face set in a grim mask. He refused to let his emotions betray him. He would not show her the hurt, the confusion, the lingering sense of loss that still clung to him. He would be cold as always, detached, a force to be reckoned with.
