The weight of Kaelen's ring on my finger felt both foreign and right as we made our way through the bustling streets toward the Solstice Procession. Tonight marked the second night of the festival, and the entire city seemed to vibrate with anticipation.
"You look beautiful," Kaelen murmured, his breath warm against my ear. His arm around my waist tightened possessively as we passed a group of unmated wolves whose gazes lingered too long on me.
I smoothed down the front of my dress—a shimmering silver gown that Kaelen had personally selected. It hugged my curves before flowing out at the knees, making me look ethereal and somehow powerful at once.
"Thank you," I replied, surprising myself with the confidence in my voice. The ring on my finger had changed something in me. While I knew our engagement was fake, the symbol itself gave me strength I hadn't expected.
