Serene stumbled as she was dragged out of the carriage. After steadying herself, she glared at the guard and muttered something inaudible but clearly nasty.
She steeled herself, holding her head high with pride and confidence, as though she hadn’t just been humiliated.
Matteo stomped toward her, grabbed her by the arm, and yanked her forward toward Thorne. He shoved her the last few steps, nearly staggering himself.
“You planted your nasty seed in my mate!” Matteo yelled.
The crowd gasped. Whispers buzzed as everyone looked at Thorne, then at Matteo, and then, to Ember’s horror, at her.
The crowd parted around Ember, drawing all attention to her. Matteo noticed and let out a harsh, mocking laugh.
“What a beauty she is. Is that your mate, Thorne?” Matteo slurred, advancing drunkenly.
