Chapter 2

The rest of the day passed in a blur. She tried to tell Sarah of her reservations but was shushed. It was for the good of the pack. Being mated to an Alpha would give her status. He would take good care of her. The well-meant words swirled around her.

She wanted to find Bryan, to cry on his shoulder and feel his arms around her offering comfort one last time, but that too had been denied her. It wouldn’t be proper. There was no time. Were these actual reasons or just excuses? Either way, the result was the same.

Three hours later, she was seated at a table beside a man she didn’t know. As she looked around, her heart thudding heavily in her chest, she noted that the hall had been decorated with fall flowers and the best China set out. Linen cloths adorned the tables and various dishes of meat and vegetables, rolls and salads appeared.

It always amazed her how Sarah could pull a meal together for a small army on a moment’s notice. No doubt, the food was delicious, b