"You don't have to do this," Riley said.
Grayson fastened the ceremonial cloak around her shoulders. Silver and white. Queen's colors.
"Yes, I do." His eyes met hers in the mirror. "Your brother's betrayal shook the pack. Some are questioning your loyalty. Your commitment."
"So we what? Put on a show?"
"No." Grayson turned her to face him. "We show them the truth. That you're mine. That I'm yours. That nothing—not your father, not your blood, not anything—will break us."
Riley's heart clenched. "A public claiming."
"A formal one. In front of everyone." His thumb traced her jaw. "I know we've already completed the bond privately. But this is different. This is for them. So they know their queen isn't going anywhere."
Riley nodded. "Okay."
"You sure? It's... intense. Traditional. The
