Chapter 4

Within days, the news that Juno was a Gifted She-Wolf had spread across the entire territory.

Along with it came the news that Hadley was marrying Juno, and that I was marrying Callum. Every ear in Ashford Territory heard it.

Juno's background was no secret.

She was the star performer at the Crimson Den, the biggest underground venue in the capital.

Even though she'd only sold entertainment and not her body, the rest of the Ashford royals and the Pack Council wouldn't stand for the future Alpha King heir's mate -- the future Pack Queen -- being a woman from the Crimson Den.

The Council united in a formal petition, urging the Alpha King to reverse his decision.

But Hadley, banking on the fact that he was the only viable heir, stood right outside the Throne Room doors and declared:

"I'm marrying Juno. She's a Gifted She-Wolf who can produce an heir of the Ashford bloodline. She deserves a proper title."

"Of course, if Juno fails to bear a child, I'll step down willingly and hand the Alpha King heir position to Callum."

Hadley had been spoiled by the Alpha King his entire life. He said all this with complete confidence, like no one else in the world mattered.

The Alpha King, forced out of the Throne Room to address the uproar, heard Hadley's declaration. His eyes rolled back and he collapsed.

The Alpha King was weak and old. He couldn't hold his own against the fury of the Council and the rest of the royal family.

He had no choice but to agree to Hadley's terms.

My marriage to Callum was made official.

Before long, my wedding day arrived.

Whether it was Juno's idea or Hadley simply wanted to humiliate me further, Juno's new lodge was right next to mine.

Hadley's wedding procession -- banners, mounted escorts, everything the Alpha King's treasury could buy -- swept right past my door.

"Zoe, it's your big day. Can Callum even come pick you up? If not, I'll do my brotherly duty and carry you to his bed myself."

Hadley's voice boomed. Everyone in the crowd laughed and sneered.

Then Callum's voice cut through the noise.

"That won't be necessary. I'm perfectly capable of bringing my own mate home."

Hadley whipped his head around.

There, sitting tall on a horse, was the man he'd called a cripple. Callum Ashford. Back straight. Eyes sharp.