Chapter 139

• Ruth frowns at my question, her gaze flickering to my rounded belly once more. It’s subtle, but I see it—the hesitation, the unspoken concern behind her eyes. Reflexively, I fold my arms over my stomach, trying to shield it from her scrutiny, even though I know her worry comes from a good place. Still, it unsettles me.
• “There really isn’t anything else that needs to be done,” she says, her voice pitched too high, the false cheer in it betraying the lie.
• I arch an eyebrow, slowly glancing around the bustling courtyard behind her. Several wolves rush back and forth, shouting orders, carrying crates, hanging streamers and lanterns. The entire place is buzzing with frantic energy, and the scent of roasted meat and spiced bread hangs heavy in the air. It’s the final hour before the celebration begins—and she wants me to believe there’s nothing left to do?