The celebration moved to the pack house gardens, where tables had been set up with food and drink. Music started playing, and the atmosphere shifted from solemn ceremony to joyful party.
But I couldn't shake the feeling that I was watching it all from very far away, disconnected from the festivities that were supposedly in my honor.
I stood at the edge of the crowd, the flower crown already feeling too heavy on my head, when I heard the laugh.
Sharp. Mocking. Feminine.
I turned to see Brianna standing among a group of Steven's friends, her red hair perfect, her dress strategically chosen to highlight every curve. Her eyes found mine across the space, and her smile turned vicious.
"Well, well," she said, loud enough for everyone nearby to hear. "The beta's niece finally got what she w
