Chapter 12: Ball
Ariana’s eyebrow shot up in shock as the music slowed to a dramatic stop. She was still trying to process what he had just said. Had she heard him correctly? Did he just say he would be getting married to her?
Tonight
Zavren, who had expected such a reaction, held her waist to steady her stance.
B..But... what about his mate?
Was he going to reject her—whoever she was? Ariana was certain she wasn’t his mate—she couldn’t be. Her mother, a wolf, had done the impossible by giving birth to her, a human. So was it even possible for a wolf’s mate to be human?
The lights returned slowly, bathing the large hall in brilliance once more. Ariana gave a slow curtsy. A soft clap echoed across the hall—it was delicate, yet powerful. As expected, the rich did everything with a certain grace.
"My mate, future Luna, and queen," Zavren announced. His deep, commanding voice resonated through the hall, silencing every whisper and breath.
Time stilled.
"All hail His Majesty," the crowd spoke in unison.
This phrase was sacred—used only when a king declared something absolute. Whether it pleased or displeased anyone, it had to be said.
Zavren moved, his dark hair falling to his face, lips curling upward in a cold yet perfect smirk. He held her hand, raising it to his lips and pressing a kiss against the back. His grey eyes locked onto hers with dark intensity.