Not just Alpha Edgar—the entire hall was stunned by my choice. Some thought I'd beg for a place in his inner den, others expected a plea for wealth or status. No one imagined I'd ask to be bound to a dead wolf, to live as his widow forever.
Alpha Edgar stared down at me, his face hardening. "Aurora, I'll give you one more chance. Choose again."
My voice didn't waver. "Thank you, Alpha Edgar, but this is my heart's only wish. Please grant it."
He fixed me with a cold smile. "Your heart's wish? Fine. Fine. Fine!"
Three times he said it, his handsome face darkening with ice. He sank back onto his throne, waving a hand. "Aurora's request defies custom. I've considered it—denied."
My heart plummeted. Everything I'd done, all I'd endured these years, was for this—to be bound to Raymond. If
