Chapter 161. I Don’t Need You

Ava basked in the attention, letting the whispers and admiring glances wash over her like a warm tide.

Every nod, every compliment only fueled her confidence. She had heard rumors from her carefully placed sources: the Queen Mother had destroyed the breeder’s dress and forbade Lady Beatrice from providing another.

It seemed that the girl would have no way to attend the lively banquet tonight. A small, satisfied smile tugged at Ava’s lips.

Finally, the doors opened, and all conversation hushed as the Alpha King entered. He moved with his usual authority. He looked devastatingly handsome in his gold-and-black regal attire. He was alone, or so it seemed, but Ava’s eyes quickly took in the Queen Mother at his side.

The Queen Mother’s presence was commanding, and Ava could see that she was keeping the breeder away, though the girl’s absence did nothing to dampen her amusement. This was her night, and everyone in the room would see it.

Ava approached them g