The pack yard was buzzing with excitement. Wolves gathered in rows, their whispers filling the air like restless wind. Today was the day. The Alpha King had returned from his conquest to visit our pack.
I gripped the edge of my dress, nails digging into the fabric as I stood among the crowd. My heart pounded, not with admiration like the others, but with rage.
The sound of horses hooves echoed before I saw him.
He appeared—tall, broad-shouldered, dressed in black armor trimmed with silver. His very presence made the air heavy. The people bowed instantly, their heads lowered in respect.
But I… I couldn't.
My eyes locked on him. Those golden eyes, sharp as blades, the same eyes that had once watched me bleed out in betrayal.
And yet, the bond pulled at me, as cruel as ever. My wolf whimpered inside me, traitorous, recognizing its mate.
"Bow," my cousin hissed at my side, shoving my shoulder.
I refused.
His gaze swept the crowd… and landed on me. For a moment, time froze. His lips curved, not in a smile, but in something sharper. He noticed me—just as he had in the past.
Only this time, I wasn't the naive girl who would fall into his hands.
This time, I was ready