(Audrey's POV)
I had expected many uncomfortable encounters in the Northern Territories, but sitting beside Elder Shadowcrest while facing Arthur and Emma was not one of them. The tension in the room was palpable as Elder Shadowcrest's sharp question hung in the air.
"I heard you just severed your mate bond?"
Her tone was direct, almost accusatory. I kept my gaze fixed on the window, trying to make myself as small as possible. This was not my battle, and yet here I was, caught in the crossfire.
Arthur's face remained impassive, though I could sense the slight tension in his jaw. "Yes, Elder. That's correct."
I didn't dare look at him directly. The wound of our severance was still too fresh. It hurt just being in the same room as him, especially with Emma standing proudly at his side.
Elder Shadowcrest's eyes narrowed, her gentle demeanor from earlier completely vanished. She turned to Emma, who was still standing possessively close to Arthur.
"And did you, my granddaughter, have
