Chapter 23

Maeve’s POV

I scurried out of Draven’s office; the heat in there was unbearable. I raced to my chamber without glancing back. Once inside, I slammed the door and pressed my weight against it. My heartbeat thundered in my chest, and my body trembled from the lingering effect of Draven’s touch.

I sighed and collapsed onto my bed, staring up at the empty ceiling. I remained rooted there for a long time as twilight crept in, my mind racing through thought after thought.

When dinner time came, I refused the castle’s dining hall—where I’d be stuck making small talk with Thea—and followed Elysia and Aria to the Packhouse, just beyond the castle walls. I had never been inside before; until now, I had only explored the castle grounds and gardens. I wanted to see more of the pack, and for them to see me. No matter how Thea kept to herself, everyone admired her; I stood little chance of competing with her.

Aria snapped me out of my thoughts by placing a plate of