Ethan's POV
I stood in front of the mirror, adjusting the cuffs of my coat and straightening the sash of my ceremonial attire. Today was the day of Soraya's trial—and today, I would prove myself strong, worthy of the throne of Silverfang. My reflection stared back at me, eyes sharp, jaw set, the Alpha I was meant to be.
And beside me, the perfect queen should stand—who else could it be if not the one marked by the Moon herself? Soraya. She was already bound to me, the mark a living testament to our connection. Today, I would lay claim to her openly. As for the curse, I'd face it when the time came. First, I needed to secure her, make her mine, and ensure no one—no one—would take her from me. Not even my father, whose intentions I still didn't fully understand.
A voice cut through my thoughts.
"Ethan."
I turned sharply, startled, and saw Lila standing behind me. I had caught her reflection in the mirror first, and in that instant, my smile faltered.
