Kneeling before the council, my wrists bound behind me, I could feel the weight of countless stares pressing down on me. Hatred filled their eyes, their judgment already cast before I had even spoken a single word.
I had the chance to tell the truth—to fight for my innocence. But as my gaze met Owen’s across the crowded room, the silent plea in his eyes reminded me of the promise he made. My heart pounded as I forced the words out.
"Yes, I confess."
Gasps rippled through the room, followed by hushed murmurs. It was as if the entire pack had been waiting for this moment, eager for the confirmation of what they had already believed—that I was nothing more than the disgrace they had always seen me as.
Alpha Marcus lifted a hand, immediately silencing the pack. "Ariana, you have admitted to a serious offense. Before we determine your fate, do you have anything to say for yourself?"