Chapter 138

VALERIA’S POV I ran my fingers over the fabric of my dress, smoothing the invisible creases as I stared at my reflection. I was almost ready for tonight’s event, yet my mind was far from at peace. What will happen tonight? How will it all unfold? What if I fail? So many questions. No answers. I exhaled sharply, trying to ground myself. Whatever happened tonight, I needed to be prepared. This wasn’t just about surviving. It was about fighting back. A sudden knock at my door pulled me from my thoughts. I turned, giving myself one last glance in the mirror before stepping forward. I expected one of my friends, maybe Magnar or a guard, but when I opened the door— I froze. "Dimitri?" My voice barely came out as a whisper. He stood there, looking perfectly composed, dressed in all black as always, his sharp eyes scanning me with an expression I couldn't decipher. In his hand, he held a black rose. "You look gorgeous," he murmured, a slow smile spreading across his lips. "Just like your mothe