“I’ll be back later, Amanda. We’re going to find other wolves that got lost in the forest,” Enzo said, his voice a low rumble.
I simply nodded and watched him leave through the doorway. I stayed in my room, stitching the torn fabric of my dress. It was a gift from my mother, and I was determined to repair it instead of throwing it away.
Later, I stepped out onto the terrace, seeking fresh air. But from down below, I heard the hushed voices of the servants.
“Am I the only one who’s noticed this? I think something is going on between Alpha Enzo and Amelia.”
“I agree. I saw Amelia go into a room, and Alpha Enzo followed her. Are they cheating on Amanda?”
My heart clenched as I listened to their hushed whispers. The thought of Enzo and Amelia meeting in secret, hidden from me, felt like a knife twisting in my gut.
“Well, I can’t blame Alpha Enzo if he’s cheating on her wife. Amelia is better and more beautiful.”
I couldn’t bear to listen anymore. I turned away, rushing back into my room. I stared at my reflection in the mirror, my face a mask of confusion. I knew I was beautiful, better than my cousin.
But I couldn’t help but compare myself, wondering if I was better, would Enzo treat me better? A wave of self-doubt washed over me. I grabbed at the pearls I was wearing, and in a fit of frustration, they snapped, scattering across the floor.
***
It was around ten in the evening when Enzo finally returned. He went straight to the dining room for dinner, and I joined him, silently. I focused on my plate, rushing to finish my meal.
“Amanda, you usually ask how my day went. Why are you so quiet now?” Enzo asked, his gaze piercing me with a hint of disdain.
I paused, my fork hovering over my food. “What’s the point of asking when you don’t even answer me?” I muttered, my voice barely a whisper.
Enzo’s eyes narrowed, and he set his plate aside. “And you’re talking to me like that? Amanda, what’s happening to you?”
Finally, he noticed my shift in behavior. He was used to me being kind and caring, even as he treated me like a servant. Now, I was letting him see the other side of me, the side that was just as heartless as he could be. I wasn't sure if he could handle it.
“Nothing, I’m just being myself. Amelia’s been with you, so for sure she’s been checking on you, right?” I said, my tone dripping with sarcasm.