None of them liked her.
Calista remembered Vivienne when they were younger—before life twisted her into someone harder to recognize. Back then she had been charming, even sweet at times. A woman who laughed easily and carried herself with effortless elegance.
But after her husband left, something in her had broken.
The change had not happened overnight. It had crept in slowly, reshaping her piece by piece until the woman they once knew disappeared behind ambition and bitterness.
Now when people spoke of her, it was with caution.
And fear.
As Calista spoke, Cyril listened quietly.
She spoke about the Alpha's engagement and the upcoming ceremony. She speculated about decorations, about the guests who would come from neighboring packs, about the kind of gown the bride might wear.
Cyril nodded occasionally, offering small comments here and there. His father did the same.
