Chapter 37. Whispers in the Winter Garden

Anastasia's POV

My blood boils at Bea's provocation, and I feel the urge to lunge at her, make her swallow every venomous word that comes out of her mouth. I feel my jaw tighten and my hands clench into fists. But I don't even have my wolf to help defend me; the moment I think of just slapping Bea across the face, she could very well transform into a wolf herself. Besides, I don't need a new enemy; Amelia wanting to kill me is enough.

With that, I take a deep breath and hug my shoulders, trying to ward off the chill running down my spine.

"Well, if the next trial is about our talents, then maybe you'll have a chance to try and win, won't you?" I provoke confidently, throwing Bea a sarcastic smile.

The look of surprise on her face gives me a small sense of victory.

"If you'll excuse me, ladies, I'll return to the castle. I believe there's not much to do here either. Have a good afternoon."