Silas.
I had already given the order for the three rogues to be shown to proper rooms inside the pack house, and even as the words left my mouth I could feel the quiet ripple of shock among the servants who received the instruction.
Rogues were not welcomed within pack walls, let alone given chambers in the Alpha residence, yet I forced my expression into one of calm authority because I could not afford to reveal what churned beneath my skin.
The corridor to my chambers felt unnaturally long as I walked through it, each step echoing like a reminder of how the day had unraveled beyond my control.
This was not how this day had been written in my mind. By now, the elders should have placed the ceremonial markings upon me, the crown should have rested on my head, and the pack should have bowed in acknowledgment of my reign.
Instead, the halls hummed with whispers, servants exchanged wary glances, and uncertainty had replaced celebration.
All because she walked in.
Selena.
