quiet nights that would lull anybody into a delusion of serenity. However, tonight was everything f

g for the last several weeks. The time has

ng the secret corners, the servants' quarters, and the hallways. Her thoughts were clear and intent, she mo

e of the seasons, had already been prepared by the servants. Naturally,

chen, discreetly setting out food trays on a neighbouring counte

" she added quietly. It is appropriate that we make use of the unique vi

inaj, that's a lot of wine. Although it's a specia

Minaj nodded. Indeed, it is uncommon. I beli

dark, almost iridescent colour. The way Minaj clutched it and the way her fingers curled a

The wine is already set up, but just to be

tity into a cup, but she missed it. The poison was an uncommon and deadly mixture that had no taste or smell and worked qui

gently swirling it around. It was a methodical procedure that she had me

alm despite the excitement pulsing throug

-

uld see her seated next to Cassian in her proper spot, the Alpha's attention briefly diverted to the

iberate, languid elegance. When she arrived at the table, she p

Minaj, Minaj's eyes lingered on her, seeing the little flicker of doubt in her eyes. Was there susp

feeling well, love?" He was always focused on her, attending to all of Niki's needs and every word. Minaj c

up, Niki said, "I'm fine." Preoccupied with her internal conflict, she

as the poison worked its way through her system. It would be too late by the time anybody realised what had occurred. Because of the pois

anged subtly, first with a faint blush to her cheeks and then with slower, more deliberate motions. Her fingers briefly clenched around the

ed. She let out a little gasp and placed her palm to her mouth

nstincts took over as he moved closer and hovered h

losing its colour. "I believe... Her voice was feeble

s feet. With a worried tone, he added, "I'll take you to y

cusing, and she shook her head. "No... It is

he fell back into her chair, her face becoming even paler. In an ins

hallway, a number of pack members hurried forward, thei

eping her hands folded neatly in her lap. She could hear the pack's terrified cries for

she was the source of the poison. They would never consider the possi

they rushed to take Niki out of the hallway. It

e would begin. She would be on Cassian's side when he turned t

t be a terrible victim of

-

already finished. Now that everything was m