Esther’s POV
The world has a cruel sense of humor.
Because the day Kevin decided to propose to me was the same day the sun finally came out over Blood Moon’s territory after weeks of relentless rain.
The courtyard gleamed, every leaf silvered with dew, every stone shining as if scrubbed clean. I stood in the center of it, framed by a fountain’s spray and the pale arch of the east veranda. A small crowd had gathered, pack members, servants, even a few visiting dignitaries.
And him.
Nicholas stood across the courtyard, a black silhouette against the light. His expression unreadable. But I could feel his gaze like pressure under my skin.
Kevin was talking, his voice smooth and confident, rehearsed a thousand times in his head, I was sure.
“… You’ve suffered too long in the shadows, Est
