Shattered Masks
Freya’s POV
The morning sun filtered through the high windows of the castle, casting a soft glow over the grand hall, chiding every lazy wolf off their bed. But the beauty of the day did little to lift the weight crushing my chest. I stood by the window, watching as the guards changed shifts in the courtyard below. Their movements were efficient, practiced, and unshaken, so unlike the chaos in my mind.
"Freya."
Lucian’s voice broke through my thoughts. I turned to see him leaning casually against the doorway, his sharp eyes fixed on me. Despite his relaxed posture, there was an intensity in his gaze, as though he were trying to unravel the secrets I was so carefully guarding.
“You’ve been quiet,” he observed. “Quieter than usual, anyway.”
I shrugged, forcing a nonchal
