*Maddy*

I need to run now. I can feel Reginald's fury starting to suffocate the room. He’s still arguing with one of the well-dressed men who is now shouting in his face. I understand nothing.

A few of the women dressed in fine gowns start to walk out of the ballroom, their faces drawn in disappointment. I glance around quickly, trying to keep my battered face shielded from the Prince–no, the Alpha King.

He’s the Alpha King now. I hadn’t realized until I saw him, but the crest he wears on his lapel confirms it.

He hasn’t recognized me. I didn’t expect him to. It’s been three years, after all....