The maids entered Mira’s room. “It’s time, miss,” one said softly, her tone kind but firm. Mira turned to see them holding an elegant gown of deep silver and blue, the traditional colors of the StoneWare Pack.
Her throat tightened. She had refused Alpha Aiden’s proposal. She had made it clear that she had no intention of marrying him. Yet, his insistence had left her little choice. He had reminded her of the safety he provided when no one else would take her in, of the protection she enjoyed under his rule. He had helped her, and now he demanded repayment—marriage.
“This isn’t right,” Mira muttered, clenching her fists. “He knows this isn’t right.”
The maids exchanged uneasy glances but said nothing. Instead, they moved to dress her, their movements brisk but gentle. Mira stood still, her heart racing as the layers of silk and lace wrapped around her, turning her into someone she didn’t recognize.
When they finished, one maid stepped back, her gaze sympathetic. “You look beautiful, miss.”
Mira said nothing. Her reflection in the mirror didn’t feel like her own.
***
As the evening deepened, the ceremonial hall filled with StoneWare Pack members and allies. Alpha Aiden stood at the front, his imposing figure exuding confidence as he addressed the crowd. Mira was brought forward, flanked by two guards. The murmurs of admiration and curiosity followed her every step.
When she reached the dais, Aiden turned to her, his expression softening slightly. “Mira,” he said, his voice carrying through the hall, “will you honor this pack by becoming my mate?”
The crowd erupted into cheers, their approval echoing in Mira’s ears like thunder. Her jaw tightened as she forced herself to meet Aiden’s gaze. She wanted to say no, to break free of the chains she felt tightening around her.
Before she could speak, Aiden leaned closer, his voice low and for her ears alone. “Remember who gave you shelter. This isn’t a request, Mira. It’s your duty.”
Her chest heaved with restrained anger, but the words wouldn’t come. Her silence was answer enough for Aiden, who straightened and turned to the crowd.
“Let the ceremony begin!” he declared.
Just as the officiant stepped forward, a loud commotion erupted near the entrance. Gasps and murmurs spread like wildfire through the room. Mira turned toward the source of the disruption, her heart pounding.
When the crowd parted, a figure strode in with commanding authority. The firelight glinted off dark hair and sharp eyes filled with determination. Mira’s breath caught in her throat.
“Alpha Kaelan,” someone whispered in the crowd, and the murmurs grew louder.
Mira’s knees nearly gave way as she stared at him. Her ex-mate, the man who had cast her out, stood before her.
***
The crowd fell silent as Alpha Kaelan approached the dais, his gaze locked on Mira. His wolf growled faintly in the back of his mind, urging him forward, urging him to take her back.
When he reached the dais, Kaelan turned his attention to Aiden. “Alpha Aiden,” he said, his voice steady but loud enough to carry through the hall. “I’m Kaelan of the Black Moon Pack, and I’ve come for Mira.”
Aiden’s expression shifted from surprise to annoyance. He gestured for the guards. “Escort him out.”
The guards moved toward Kaelan, but his sharp glare stopped them in their tracks. “I’m here to reclaim what is mine,” Kaelan announced, his voice firm. “Mira is my mate, chosen by the moon goddess herself. I made a grave mistake in letting her go, and I will not leave without her.”
Gasps rippled through the audience, the weight of Kaelan’s claim settling over them like a storm cloud.
Aiden’s jaw tightened as he stepped closer to Kaelan. “Mira is under my protection. She has no ties to you anymore. You forfeited that right when you cast her out.”
Kaelan’s expression didn’t waver. “The bond cannot be severed. You know this as well as I do. Ask her,” he said, his gaze flicking to Mira. “Let her confirm my words.”
All eyes turned to Mira, the air thick with anticipation. Her heart raced as she met Kaelan’s gaze, his presence dredging up a whirlwind of emotions—pain, anger, longing.
“Mira,” Aiden said, his voice cold and demanding. “Is this true?”