Kaelan’s recovery was slow but steady. Mira remained at his side, ensuring he took his medications and rested, though his stubbornness made it a challenge. Each time he tried to argue, she silenced him with a look, her determination unyielding.
It was during one such moment, as she coaxed him to drink a bitter herbal tonic, that a knock sounded at the door. A maid entered, her face flushed with urgency.
“Mira,” the maid said, glancing nervously at Kaelan. “May I speak with you in private?”
Mira hesitated, glancing at Kaelan. He waved her off weakly, his voice tinged with amusement. “Go. But don’t think this means I’m finishing this tonic without you.”
She smiled faintly before following the maid into the hallway. Once the door was closed behind them, the maid leaned in, her voice a hurried whisper.
“You need to know what’s happening,” the maid said, her tone urgent. “The Alpha—Kaelan’s father—has organized a ceremony.”
Mira frowned, confusion flickering across her face. “What kind of ceremony?”
The maid hesitated before answering. “A selection. He’s invited all the marriageable she-wolves in the region. They’re being presented as potential Lunas for Alpha Kaelan.”
Mira’s breath caught. “What? Why would he—”
The maid’s expression was pained. “He doesn’t believe you’re suitable, Mira. He thinks the council will only support Kaelan if he chooses someone else.”
The words hit Mira like a physical blow. Her chest tightened, and her mind raced. Kaelan didn’t know. He was still recovering, unaware of the plans unfolding around him.
“Does he know?” Mira asked, her voice trembling.
The maid shook her head. “No. The Alpha has kept it from him. But it’s happening tonight. The guests are already arriving.”
Mira felt a surge of anger and despair. Kaelan’s father was undermining him, forcing a choice that neither of them wanted. She clenched her fists, her mind spinning as she tried to think of a way to stop it.
“Thank you for telling me,” she said, her voice steady despite the storm raging within her.
The maid nodded, her expression sympathetic. “Be careful, Mira. The Alpha won’t take kindly to interference.”
Mira returned to Kaelan’s room, her heart heavy. He looked up as she entered, his brow furrowing at the sight of her pale face.
“Mira,” he said softly. “What’s wrong?”