Chapter 63. Strong, Fierce, and Loyal

Xerina’s POV

A collective gasp echoed around the room, and I could feel the shock ripple through the gathered Alphas and guests. My father, who had been sitting calmly at the head of the table, now looked completely baffled, his brows furrowed in confusion as his piercing eyes narrowed.

“Alpha Rasmus, what is the meaning of this?” one of the older Alphas demanded, his voice filled with authority and surprise. “Ruka has been promised to you for years. This is not a decision to be made lightly.”

Another Alpha chimed in, his tone more accusatory. “Have you found your mate, Alpha? Is this why you are calling off the engagement?”

I felt my heart drop to my stomach as I saw Rasmus’s eyes flicker briefly to mine. I shook my head discretely, silently pleading with him not to go down this path.

No, please don’t do this, Rasmus.

But he didn’t listen.

Instead, he nodded, his gaze hardening as he looked away from me and addressed the Alpha