Chapter 53 Onyi's POV
I, Onyi, was getting ready in my chambers, but I wasn't feeling it. I was only nineteen, and the whole court life thing was overwhelming me. I missed Amanda, my older mate who understood me. She had left for the Red Wolf pack a few weeks ago, and things had been different since.
One of the king's messengers appeared at my door. "Onyi," he said, his voice firm but not unkind. "The king expects you at the ball tonight. He says if you truly love Amanda, you'll do this for him. You'll show your face, mingle with the guests, and play your part."
I felt a surge of unease, and a pang of bad feeling hit me. Ever since Amanda left for the Red Wolf pack, the king had been holding these feasts and balls nonstop. It was like he was trying to fill a void or prove something. And he kept expecting me to be part of it all, even though I didn't fit in.
I didn't want to be at the ball. I didn't know how to "play my part" like the others did. I was too young for all this court politics and expectations. "B-but..." I started to say, feeling a bit trapped.
The messenger's expression was neutral. "The king's orders, Onyi. You'll be there. You'll smile, you'll dance, you'll show everyone you're a part of this court."
I swallowed hard. I was scared, avoiding people because I didn't fit in. Court life was like a game I didn't know how to play. And now the king was pushing me into the spotlight through his messenger. I nodded reluctantly, knowing I had no choice.
As the evening approached, I put on a tailored suit, feeling like I was dressing for a nightmare. The ballroom was a whirlwind of lights and music. Ryker was there, moving through the crowds like he owned the place. I felt like hiding in a corner, missing Amanda who made me feel like I belonged somewhere.