Fenris noticed where I was looking. He lifted Vessa's hand and toyed with the cuff. "Darling, you're being unfair to me. I only made a little joke with her. How was I supposed to know she'd actually dress in ceremonial furs and show up at my den? It's been very distressing."
His war-bonded brothers chimed in one after another.
"Exactly! She's the one chasing what she can't have. The moment she heard our Fenris was the Alpha King's new favorite, she latched on like a leech."
"You saved Fenris's life on the battlefield. He swore he'd only ever love you, and he'd never take a second mate. You have nothing to worry about."
So that was his excuse for breaking his mating promise.
Of course. A childhood sweetheart could never compete with a life debt.
Vessa looked at me with pity. "Miss Thornheart, I know you and Fenris grew up together, so it's only natural you developed certain... feelings."
"But that's all in the past. Fenris and I are in love now. I hope you won't keep clinging to him."
Before Fenris could say a word, one of his brothers shoved me with a sneer.
"Vessa, you're too kind. Why waste your breath on trash like her? Just send her packing."
"Exactly. If she ruins things between you and Fenris, I'll deal with her myself."
I stumbled from the shove.
Even a worm will turn. My fists clenched so tight my nails bit into my palms.
"I told you, the wolf I'm mating with today is not Fenris Ashclaw."
"I am the Alpha Prince's chosen Luna. If you don't believe me, come to the ceremony and see for yourselves."
The words barely left my mouth before Fenris shoved me hard.
"Still putting on an act, Briar?"
"You say you're the Luna? Then where's the royal procession? Where's the Alpha Prince? Go on, call him out. Let's all have a look."
"At least come up with a better lie before you open your mouth."
Fenris was strong. The force of his push sent my forehead cracking against the ground. Blood bloomed instantly, and my ceremonial crown knocked sideways. The scent of my own blood filled the air, sharp and copper-bright, and every wolf in the courtyard went still for half a breath before the jeering resumed.
Vessa gasped. "Fenris, don't!"
"She-wolves can be vain. It's only natural she'd want to climb to a higher branch. But with so many wolves watching, at least leave her a shred of dignity."