Chapter Forty-Two

Scarlett’s POV

The morning of the Pack Healing Exhibition settles over the grounds like a held breath. Even the trees seem to stand taller today, their branches brushing against the pale winter sky as if reaching for clarity. I wish I could say I feel ready—steady, calm, in control of my emotions—but my heart betrays me, beating in an anxious, unsteady rhythm against my ribs.

My palms sweat as I stand behind the stage area, clutching the folded cloth Killian insisted I ...