In truth, I had never intended to attend this gathering.
I had no desire to see Selene, and I shared no common ground with these wolves. There was no point in forcing ourselves together.
But Marek Hollowmere, our old peer-circle's Beta functionary, had called me twenty-eight times, swearing Selene would not be present.
He promised that no one would flaunt their status or resources—that this was purely about rekindling old bonds.
Yet here Selene was, not only present but parading her fortune for all to see.
A gold-chaser playing at being a high-born lady.
Truly laughable.
But this pretend noblewoman refused to let me be. She pressed on, relentless:
"Kael, even boasting has its limits. This Moon-Imperial Chamber was reserved by my mate using his Alpha-rank access. What does that have to do with you?"
"Look at yourself—dressed like a delivery runner, wearing those simple leather shoes. If you weren't riding on our generosity, would you even be permitted to dine in such an elevated lodge?"
Her words drew waves of laughter from those around us. The gazes that turned my way now carried open contempt.
But I merely waved my hand, unbothered, and let out a cold laugh.