Kimi's POV
The revelation hit Kimi like a physical blow. Her breath caught as reality crashed down around her. All this time, she had convinced herself that Stella would be the woman hanging on Kolton's arm tonight. Never had she imagined it would be Adalind.
The pieces clicked together with devastating clarity. Her friends' gossip suddenly made perfect sense. Adalind was indeed a beta's daughter, just like herself. The irony tasted bitter on her tongue.
Adalind moved through the room with practiced grace, completely unaware of Kimi's presence. She offered polite greetings to Kolton's parents and Kimi's own family, her smile radiant and genuine. Kolton guided her toward the plush leather couch with a possessive gesture that made Kimi's stomach twist.
