Chapter 48 Later

• Festive receptions gave way to council meetings, smiles turned into tense glances, and only a chosen few knew that beneath the dazzling court, a subtle game had begun to unfold.
• Amelia sat in the grand hall beside Damien, surrounded by the alphas of allied packs. She looked flawless—her smile gentle, her voice calm, not a trace of worry on her face. But under the table, her hand was gripping the king’s tightly.
• Rylan was there, too. He spoke all the right words, delivered speeches about loyalty and stability. And looked at her as though he admired her.