Zara POV
As I stood on the edge of the banquet hall, the mustard silk of my gown felt like a second skin, one that was currently too tight.
Every time the heavy oak doors swung open, my wolf lunged toward the gap, searching for the scent of winter and expensive scotch. Searching for Lir.
He’s gone, Zara, I told my wolf, gripping the stem of a champagne flute until my knuckles mirrored the white of the marble pillars. He walked out and he chose the title and my step-sister.
"You look like you’re bracing for an impact," Silas’s voice drifted over my shoulder, warm and steady. He stepped into my space, his presence a cooling balm against the jagged heat Lir had left behind.
"I'm just... adjusting to the light," I lied, forcing a smile that didn't reach my eyes.
Silas didn't push furthe
