The Council chamber emptied like a funeral procession. Elders shuffled out in silence, whispers following in their wake, robes brushing the marble floor. None of them looked at me. They looked at Kael, at the faint glowing mark that had pulsed across his chest for everyone to see.
The Alpha’s mark.
I clutched my hoodie tight at the neckline, the same pulse thrumming under my skin. Every step out of that chamber felt like I was walking with a dagger strapped to my throat.
Kael walked close behind me, his presence heavy, protective. Too protective. Students had gathered at the end of the corridor, whispering, craning for a glimpse of us. Their eyes darted between my collarbone and Kael’s chest, hungry for confirmation.
Selene stood at the front. Her smile was sweet enough to rot teeth.
