Kael
The balcony air was sharp enough to burn.
I stood at the stone railing with my hands gripping the edge, staring out at darkness beyond the estate grounds. Beside me, Aubrey's voice continued its steady stream of gratitude and excitement, the words tumbling together with the slight slur that suggested far too much wine.
"—and Lord Brennan actually said he was impressed with how I've managed the territory since Simon died. Brennan never gives compliments, you know that." She laughed, high and bright. "And Lady Margrave promised to speak with three southern packs about formally recognizing my authority. Three, Kael. That's more than I'd even hoped for."
I hummed absentmindedly . The cold air helped cut through some of the rage that had been building all evening, but not enough. Not nearly enough.
