Asher’s POV

The morning dragged slower than usual. I kept glancing at the clock on the wall in my office, waiting for the afternoon council meeting. We had to lock in on the wedding date, figure out security, guest lists—the whole thing. I’d already called my parents last night. It was a short conversation, but they were thrilled. Mom cried a little, while Dad just grunted approval like he always does. They wanted to meet Tara officially before anything got set, which made sense. I told them we’d arrange dinner soon.

But Tara’s parents… that was the problem. I personally didn’t want them anywhere near the ceremony. Not after the...