[ AYSEL ]
The festival begins with a slow, respectful order.
One by one, everyone present moves toward the elevated podium. Men bow and women curtsy. Every head lowers first to the Grand Lycan King, then to the other Alphas and leaders seated beside him.
When my turn comes, my stomach tightens in knots.
I step forward, keeping my back straight and my chin slightly lowered. I refuse to look up or meet Raegon’s eyes because if I do, I might forget where I am.
I bend in a slow, graceful curtsy. Above me, I hear a man murmur under his breath.
“Isn’t that the pretty girl from the Selection?”
Heat rises to my cheeks, but I manage to keep my composure in check. Straightening, I step back and walk away carefully, praying I don’t trip over my own dress and humiliate myself in front of the en
