Aria’s POV

The grand hall blazed with light, golden lanterns strung across the rafters, long tables lined with food and drink. The air hummed with the energy of the pack—wolves dressed in their finest, murmurs echoing, eyes darting curiously toward Kael and me as we descended the staircase.

My hand was hooked in his arm, steadying my steps, though inside I felt anything but steady. The pale blue gown clung softly to my form, a reminder that my belly was no longer something to hide. Every gaze on me felt sharp, judging, weighing whether I belonged here.

Kael’s presence beside me was my anchor. He walked like a king, commanding...