Serena's pov
Lady Veronica's smile faltered, just for a moment, before she smoothed it back into place, but I saw the flicker of hurt in her golden eyes.
"No?" Felipe repeated, and I could hear the anger beneath his calm voice, the frustration, and the desperation. "My king, Lady Veronica is of noble blood. Her family has served the crown for generations. She would be a perfect match for…"
"I said no," Alejandro interrupted, and his voice was ice, sharp and cold and final. "I already have a mate. I do not need another."
The room erupted in whispers. Nobles turned to look at me, standing in the doorway, and I felt their golden eyes on my skin like brands, hot and uncomfortable and invasive. Some of them were curious. Some of them were angry. Some of them looked at me like I had just sto
