The heavy, chaotic energy of the grand hall finally faded into a distant murmur as the massive oak doors closed behind us. The reception had been nothing short of amazing—an whirlwind of power, fierce declarations, and a profound sense of love. Despite the lingering shadows of suspicious elders like Marcus, I felt entirely whole. I felt powerful. I felt loved, and above all, I felt mostly accepted by the people I was destined to rule.
But right now, the high alpha female of the territory wasn't thinking about politics.
"Demetrius, seriously, I can walk," I laughed softly, kicking my legs slightly as we reached the base of the grand stone staircase leading to the royal quarters. "At least let me walk until we get to the door. This dress weighs a ton."
"No," he insisted, his deep voice le
