Seraphine's POV
"You have more strength than you realize," Elder Gina said gently. "The Alpha sees it too, even if he won't admit it."
I wiped my eyes with trembling fingers. "He thinks I'm too weak."
She tilted her head. "Or is he afraid of something else entirely?"
Before I could ask what she meant, she stood again.
"The wedding will be in a week," she announced. "I've already made the arrangements."
My breath caught. "I got it."
Elder Gina moved to her door, clearly dismissing me. "Understanding will come in time, child. Trust in the Moon Goddess's plan."
I stumbled back to my room, emotions churning like a storm. The beautiful dress suddenly felt like armor I didn't deserve to wear.
Theodore's office door was slightly ajar when I reached it. I could hear papers rustling inside.
I knocked softly.
"Enter."
