The celebration was still echoing through Arcadia when the first whispers reached Selene's ears.
She didn't need servants or rumors to tell her. She had been watching from the high window of the south wing, hidden behind lace curtains, as lanterns floated above the training yard and the crowd cheered with delight.
She could hear them congratulating the prince and his mate.
Her expression was serene.
Her nails, however, dug crescent moons into the palm of her hand.
Later that night, Selene delivered the news herself.
With a steady hand and a voice that wavered with emotion, she wrote a note and sent it to her father through a messenger.
"They announced it publicly. Without warning. Without counsel. Before the week ended."
"He's chosen her, Father. After everything we've done, he chose and I'm here, casted aside."
And she knew exactly how Lord Aldric would react.
—
It didn't take long.
