Chapter 39

Ravenna and Soren made their way back inside, the tension between them palpable. As they entered the living room, Astrid's eyes lit up.

"Ravenna! Come sit by me," Astrid called, patting the spot next to her on the sofa. "I want to hear all about your business ventures."

Grateful for the distraction, Ravenna settled next to Astrid. "Well, what would you like to know?"

As the two women chatted, their conversation flowed easily from business to fashion to travel. Ravenna found herself genuinely enjoying Astrid's company, her wit and intelligence a refreshing change from the usual socialite crowd.

"You know," Astrid said, lowering her voice conspiratorially, "I haven't seen Soren this engaged with someone in years. You must be pretty special."

Ravenna felt a blush creeping up her cheeks. "Oh, I don't know about that. We're just business partners."

Astrid raised an eyebrow. "Mhmm. Sure you are."

Across the room, Mara and Lyra were deep in conversation, their eyes occasionally darting to Ra