POV: Juliana CapuletHome was exactly as terrible as I'd expected.My parents spent Friday evening introducing me to distant relatives who'd heard about the engagement and wanted to offer congratulations. Each conversation felt like nails on a chalkboard, every well-meaning comment about my future with Lorenzo making the mate bond twist painfully in my chest."You must be so excited," Aunt Carolina said over dinner. "Lorenzo is such a catch. Strong, handsome, excellent bloodline.""Very exciting," I agreed, pushing food around my plate while my mother watched with sharp eyes."You seem distracted, darling," she observed. "Is everything alright?""Just tired from classes.""Perhaps you should rest this weekend instead of going out with friends. We have the dress fitting tomorrow, and you'll want to look your best."The dress fitting. For my engagement announcement. To a man who wasn't my mate."Actually, I was hoping we could talk. Privately."My mother's expression shifted to concern
Last Updated : 2025-10-02 Read more