(ALICE)
I am fully determined to keep a low profile at the upcoming events and meals. However, when I enter the breakfast banquet the next morning, all eyes turn toward me.
I swallow.
"I told you we should have come later," I whisper to Mary.
Breakfast is taking place on the palace grounds. Small, round tables have been set up, and there is a buffet. People are mingling, the conversation is light-hearted and easy. But most of it fades when I arrive.
"Should we leave?" Mary asks, but before I can answer, I hear a voice from behind me.
"Do you ladies need a partner?"
I look over my shoulder and see a handsome wolf shifter. His skin is dusky, his brown eyes twinkling. Mary is gaping at him, and I wonder if I should tell her that she's beginning to drool a little.
"We're quite alright," I begin, but his lips turn upward in a smile.
"You do realize that the moment you approach any one of these tables, you will be swarmed by the other guests."
