Until a particular voice cut through it like a blade wrapped in velvet.
"How are you feeling, River?" Prince Thas's blue eyes sparkled as he tilted his head with mock innocence. "Any jitters? One more day and you’ll be a mated she-wolf."
River straightened her back, forcing a polite smile, her cheeks warming. "Thank you for your concern, Crown Prince Thas. I believe it’s normal for any she-wolf to feel some nerves—it’s an important moment in anyone’s life."
But before her words had fully settled, Queen Lana chimed in, her voice silken and pointed.
"Too bad you could not wait for your fated mate," the Queen mused, sipping from her goblet. "Chosen bonds are strong... but fated ones are sacred. A true blessing from the Moon Goddess herself."
The words landed like stones in River’s stomac
