Just as I was about to walk away, a familiar pull brushed the back of my senses. I glanced up and saw Sera and Julian moving slowly down the corridor, heads bent close, voices low. I didn't need sharp hearing to guess what she was bringing up. The bond. The ceremony. Making it official in the pack's eyes.
I'd known this talk was coming.
Back in the main hall, the energy was thick and restless, like the air right before a storm. Laughter bounced off the walls. Conversations overlapped. This wasn't just a party it was a gathering of power. Old families. Strong bloodlines. People who mattered.
The Ashbournes rarely stayed in the city, so Lincy didn't recognize most faces here. She stood stiff in her expensive gown, every movement careful. The dress was flawless, probably custom-made, but it didn't help. Attention kept drifting back to me.
