Chapter 52. The Potion’s First Victim

Her first step was to hide the vial. Clutching it tightly under her robe, she made her way swiftly to her chamber. The room was small but neat—her bed made, the oil lamp flickering softly against the wall. She hurried to the corner where she kept her chest of clothes, pushed aside a folded shawl, and hid the vial beneath a bag of neatly stacked garments.

A sly smile curved her lips. “Tomorrow,” she whispered, touching her chest. “By this time tomorrow, everything will change.”

With that, she straightened her dress, composed her face into a mask of gentle worry, and went toward the kitchen.

Inside, two kitchen maids were stirring soup in a large pot while another arranged trays of fruits and bread. They all looked exhausted but cheerful, speaking in low tones about their Alpha’s sorrowful state.

When Samantha entered, one of them—Tilly—turned with a warm smile. “Ah, Samantha! You’re still awake?”

“Yes,” Samantha replied softly, her tone humble and kind.