lia

ling the room with golden light. Music echoed through the hall, nobles laughed over their drinks, and servants moved betw

nor Jude's return. After believing for so long that their Alpha Prince had been lost

the master's c

ce filled the room. He leaned back with one leg casually crossed over the other, appearing completely

g on his powerful werewolf constitution to hide the

ted on a low sto

that made it clear they had long been close. Jude's hand rested on h

cared about their relationship, but

weight. The woman he had brought back from the battlefield was not the issue.

on, but on power, alliances, and status. If another woman could overshadow my position

ed the room. Every

smug anticipation. Behind Jude's chair, Alas

adopted the look of a frightened doe, shrinking clos

blue eyes met mine. They were assessin

et his silence made it clear, in fron

ng the knot of fury in

aight, moving through the sea of hos

our Highness," I said, my voice

everyone. But that would only make me appear petty and give others a reason to

but by how she carried herself when everyone was watching

that didn't reach my eyes touched my lips. "How lively the cast

nd I had asserted my position

. Jude's eyes narr

led to her feet. "Lady Kensingto

t a guest? Then who are you? A new chamberm

No one had expected the meek, ugly Kens

her eyes. She turned to Jude, her voice a pathetic w

o Jude. They were all waiting

en in Coraima's hair now rested on the arm of his chair

nder my p

eclaration of loyalty. A triumphant little smil

around me, yet I re

each word precise. "But the Alpha King's comma

to his. "So, regardless of who you bring home-man, woman, or p

silent, save for th

a storm gathering i

of wills. I had no idea what he wou

the corner of his mouth quirked

he murmured. "