The Ghostly Betrothal Vigil had spilled into the long Silver Promenade — a moonlit corridor lined with glowing statues and soft music where guests continued their conversations and subtle courtships. Lord Rowan had not left Elara’s side since the Mirror ritual. His arm was now protectively around her waist, steady and warm, as if he could physically shield her from whatever invisible force kept pulling her away.
“I won’t leave you unprotected,” Rowan murmured softly, his handsome face full of quiet devotion. “Whatever darkness haunts you in this manor, I will stand between you and it. My love for you grows stronger with every passing hour, Lady Elara. Let me be your shield.”
Two more Beta lords had joined them — Lord Theo of the Mistwood Glades and Lord Elias of the Riverbend Reach. Both
