Chapter 21: The Wolves

JULY

"NO," I HEARD my neighbor Ruby whisper.

I, on the other hand, could not move and my brain could not process what I heard. All I knew was that I was just looking at Natalia, who was now still looking down.

The audience applauded loudly after Ely's announcement, except for the creatures on our table. Like me, the royals at our table were also speechless. My god. Why? Why is this happening?

"No!" Ruby could no longer restrain herself. She stood crying, looking at Ely. I clenched my fist because when I look at Ely, she smirks and looks at me with that smug look. "It's not true, isn't it, Ely? Tell me it's not true, Natalia!" Ruby is crying now. Her face was full of tears.

"Ruby, daughter, sit down. Let's talk about this matter li