Rhys

Something is shifting in the air.

I feel it before anyone says a word—an old instinct tightening at the base of my spine, my wolf lifting his head like a predator catching scent. The castle halls are quiet this morning, but not with peace. With anticipation. With strain. With something hidden moving beneath the surface.

Two days.

Two days since King Camille stood before the court and presented Raya as his mate.

Two days since I caught Lina speaking with Alpha Keith in that shadowed hallway, her voice trembling just enough for me to notice, her back stiffening when I stepped into sight.

Two days since she started avoiding...