Tobi’s POV Time had never moved so slowly. Every day without Lila at my side felt like dragging myself through molasses—an endless blur of legal jargon, historical precedent, and maddeningly circular arguments. Father had insisted we keep the engagement quiet until the Proelium was overturned or dissolved. Lila agreed with minimal protest, happy to avoid the public scrutiny. I had agreed too—because logically, it made sense. But logic didn’t keep me warm at night. Logic didn’t make up for the fact I only saw my mate for a quiet breakfast and a painfully formal dinner surrounded by wolves who looked at her like she was a puzzle with too many pieces missing. And Wednesdays? I missed her entirely. I hated Wednesdays. Those were the nights I’d return to our chambers after too many hours

