Penelope POV
The night drags on with endless toasts and speeches praising my "heroism" and Graham's "generous nature." I smile until my cheeks ache, accept congratulations from pack members I don't know and pretend the weight of Graham's hand on my waist doesn't make my skin crawl with disgust.
I am cracking my brain to find a reason to escape when Graham rises from his seat and calls for silence.
The music stops and conversations die mid-sentence. Every eye in the ballroom turns toward the Alpha.
"My beloved pack members and friends," Graham's voice carries across the room with practiced authority. "Tonight, we celebrate the bravery of a remarkable woman.” He starts, sparing me a glance I so much hate.
“ My dear Penelope risked her own life to save mine, proving her loyalty and love
