Elara
The entire square waited for my answer.
I could hear my own heartbeat louder than the music.
Kael’s hand remained outstretched.
Steady.
Patient.
He wasn’t trying to pressure me.
He was giving me a choice.
No one had ever done that before.
I looked around.
Some of the villagers watched with curiosity.
Others with disapproval.
Vivienne’s eyes burned with anger.
Willow stood near the edge of the crowd, giving me the smallest encouraging smile.
I took a slow breath.
Then…
I placed my hand in Kael’s.
“I’d be honored.”
A murmur swept through the square.
Kael’s fingers gently closed around mine.
This time, I didn’t feel nearly as nervous.
The musicians hesitated, glancing toward Alpha Rowan.
Rowan studied Kael for a long moment.
Then, to everyone’s surprise, he nodded
