Oliver's POV
I slammed the library door behind me, the sound echoing through the cold, empty hallway. My hands were shaking—not from fear, but from a white-hot rage that I couldn't push down. I walked straight to the bar and poured a glass of whiskey, swallowing the burning liquid in one gulp.
I sank into the heavy leather chair, staring into the fireplace. The gold award sat on the desk, mocking me. Tonight was supposed to be the pinnacle of my reign, the moment I showed the world my future queen. Instead, I stood on that stage like a fool, staring at an empty seat while the Council whispered behind my back.
"Damn it, Aurora," I growled, slamming my glass onto the table.
My wolf was pacing inside my head, howling with a mix of fury and deep, agonizing pain. Tell her, he snarled. Stop this game. Tell her who you really are.
I closed my eyes, shaking my head.
