Liam looked at the woman again, slower this time. He studied her face properly, not just a quick glance. He searched his memory carefully. Faces came easily to him. Names too. He had met too many dangerous people in the last few months to forget someone like her.
But no matter how hard he tried, nothing clicked.
He shook his head slightly.
"I don't recall you from anywhere," he said honestly.
She did not look offended. In fact, she looked like she expected that answer.
"That's fine," she replied. "I did not expect you to."
She took another step forward and spoke clearly.
"My name is Irina."
Liam blinked once.
"…Am I supposed to know you?"
She shook her head calmly.
"No."
Then she straightened her posture slightly, her voice turning more formal.
"I might as well introduce myself properly. My name is Irina Volkova. Alpha of the werewolves."
For a second, Liam just stared at her. Then he let out a short laugh. It was not mocking, more like disbelief mixed with amusement.
