Applause erupted around the fire. Cheers rose from mouths that had once avoided my gaze. The same people who hadn’t dared comfort me now lifted their hands in praise as if I were some holy martyr.
And Kael? He stayed rooted beside her. Not a single word in my defense. He didn’t stop her—only nodded, silently validating her performance.
Then Celeste shifted slightly, angling herself toward him. Her voice softened, reverent.
“Our Alpha’s wisdom is unmatched,” she said, eyes warm and far too familiar as they settled on Kael. “With him leading us, I have no doubt my child will grow strong and noble, just like his father—who treats all of us like family.”
Kael’s lips curled into a smile. He reached out, placing a hand on her shoulder. That simple gesture lit a fire inside me. I let out a sharp, bitter sound that sliced through the celebration.
“How lovely,” I said, my tone sharp as shattered glass. “If you believe in sacrifice so deeply, Celeste, then perhaps it’s your turn. Why not send your son to the Blood Moon Pack next? Wouldn’t that be the ultimate show of motherly love?”
Her face faltered. The mask cracked. She tried to compose herself, but her voice trembled.