Chapter 44: Predators and Prey
(Third Person's POV)
The dining room was alive with quiet murmurs and the soft clinking of silverware and glasses. Beneath the polished surface of the event, there was tension. Jasper Thorne leaned back in his chair, swirling a goblet of moon-blessed wine lazily. His wolf stirred beneath his skin, dulled by the drink but still dangerous. His sharp eyes, clouded with liquor’s haze, fixated on Elina.
"You’ve outdone yourself with your designs," Jasper slurred, his words dripping with false compliment. He leaned forward, his smile broad but unsettling. "I must say… exceptional work. The way you… blend traditional elements with modern style. It’s… quite inspiring."
Elina stiffened in her seat, her wolf whining faintly inside her. Her polite smile didn’t r
