Derek's Pov
The sight of Asher's familiar face in the midst of the gathering ignited an immediate surge of anger within me. It seemed almost orchestrated, his presence here, as if he knew that this was the perfect place to push my buttons.
My voice was a controlled growl as I confronted him, "What brings you to this place?"
A smirk tugged at the corners of Asher's lips as he replied, his tone laced with playful arrogance, "Oh, just responding to the call of my people, Derek. You know how it is."
"They are not your people," I snapped, my frustration and resentment bubbling to the surface.
Asher's eyes roamed the scene, his expression feigning casual interest. "Seems like they're a bit divided in their loyalties," he commented, a mischievous glint in his eyes. His gaze settled momentari
