Not until I had everything I needed to destroy them both.
With a deep breath, I stepped out into the cool air of the hallway. My heels clicked against the stone floor as I made my way to the dining hall where Draven was waiting. The wedding was approaching fast, and tonight, it would be just the two of us. I would act the part of the doting, oblivious fiancée, and Draven… he would fall into my trap, as easy prey always did.
I reached the door and hesitated. The smell of cedar and pine—the scent I once found comforting—was now tainted with memories of whispered conversations, shared between him and Ravenna.
The door creaked open, and there he was. Draven Thornclaw, my mate, sat at the head of the long wooden table, gazing into the fire like a man deep in thought. His dark hair, messy in that effortless way I used to find endearing, and his sharp jawline caught in the flickering light made him look every bit the mate I once adored. But now? Now, he was just a puppet, and I was pulling the strings.
I plastered on my sweetest smile and strode toward him. "Draven," I purred, my voice honeyed and soft. "You’ve been so distant lately. It’s making me… lonely." My fingertips lightly grazed the back of his neck as I leaned down, pressing a kiss to his cheek.
He flinched ever so slightly before catching himself, and I noticed the stiffness in his shoulders. "Zerra," he said, his voice strained as he turned to face me, offering a weak smile. "I'm sorry. There’s been a lot on my mind lately, with the packs, the wedding…"
"Mm," I murmured, sliding into the chair beside him. "I can imagine. But you don’t need to face any of it alone, Draven. I’m here. We’re supposed to be mates." My eyes met his, searching for any flicker of guilt or hesitation. I found it. He was squirming under my gaze, and I couldn’t help but savor the moment.
"I know," he said, his hand brushing mine in what was probably meant to be a comforting gesture. "You’ve always been strong, Zerra. I… I just want to make sure everything is perfect for us. For the future of the pack."
I let out a soft laugh and leaned in closer, my lips inches from his ear. "The future of the pack… or the future you’re building with Ravenna?" I whispered, barely loud enough for him to hear.
Draven froze, his breath catching. For a split second, panic flickered in his eyes before he quickly masked it. "Zerra… what are you—"