----Scarlet POV----
The rest of the day carried on as if nothing had happened. The morning's drama with the King was the only incident that lingered in everyone's minds, requiring further discussion. I remained confused by what had transpired—and even more frustrated when my father, George, and Elder Dimitry disappeared into His Highness’s office for hours, making it abundantly clear I was not invited.
“Poppy,” my father said with false cheer, “why don’t you help Stella with the preparations for today’s festivities? I’ll even see about inviting everyone from home to join us here, provided the pack doctor gives us the green light for Bella to travel.”
I frowned at the blatant dismissal. From where I stood, I could see His Highness and Elder Dimitry already waiting for my father outside t
