Chapter 345. You Call Me One Too

Unfortunately, the rumors didn’t fade with Brad’s departure.

If anything, they multiplied. Like weeds, or rats.

By the time Ann had finished her morning rounds across the palace grounds, she could hear them hissing from every corner. Courtiers leaning too close to one another, servants whispering with wide eyes, even a few of the younger nobles bold enough to snicker openly as she passed.

“…too convenient, isn’t it? Brad leaves the very moment people notice him shadowing her again…”

“…he didn’t leave. He was sent away. Embarrassment, that’s what it was.”

“…or he left because she begged him to stay and he refused. Either way, it stinks of scandal…”

“…and now she collects Lycans like strays, as though a kennel will win a war…”

Ann didn’t slow her stride. She didn’t look at them. But her ears caught every syllable, and Maeve strained under her skin with the urge to bare teeth.

Lovely, Maeve muttered darkly. You’re not just Queen of Wolves