Chapter 79: A Test of Loyalties
**Thelma Zane’s Point of View**
“Don’t be surprised, Thelma,” my father said, his gaze steady and reassuring. “I would never trade my daughter’s happiness for political gain.
His words carried the weight of conviction, and I felt a flicker of pride.
“I have to admit, the witch is powerful,” he continued. “But werewolves are no less formidable. We don’t need to resort to marriage as a bargaining tool to appease her. She isn’t
worth it.”
There had been countless moments when I admired my father as a great king, but today, I understood the immense burden he carried. He wasn’t just fighting for the safety and prosperity of our people–he was also defending the dignity and honor of our entire race.
For a moment, I felt ashamed of my earlier cowardice. Compared to my father’s unwavering resolve, my fears seemed trivial.
Just then, Kara entered the room, her expression composed but urgent. “Your Majesty, the Queen has invited Miss Carolyn for a walk in the garden. Under your orders, I’ve summoned the southern Duke in the name of the Lycan King. He is waiting outside.”
We exchanged glances, and my father nodded. “Please invite him in.”
Moments later, the southern Duke entered the room with his usual commanding presence. He was tall and imposing, his every step exuding confidence. If he was being controlled by a witch, he showed no outward signs of it.
He bowed respectfully to my father and Duke Frank. “Good day, Your Majesty. Devin.”
Then, with a courteous nod to Aldrich and me, he added, “Good day, young ones.”
What followed was a brief exchange of polite conversation. The words were mostly surface- level pleasantries, but the air was heavy with unspoken tension. Eventually, the topic shifted to the engagement between Carolyn and Aldrich,
here today
“In fact,” my father said, feigning discomfort with impressive ease, “I asked you to discuss that very matter.” He paused, as if choosing his words carefully. “Regarding Carolyn and Aldrich, I’m afraid I cannot fulfill your request, my old friend.”
“Why not?” The southern Duke’s brows furrowed in confusion. “Carolyn and Sir Aldrich seem like a perfect match. If you feel it’s too soon, they can simply spend time together and get to know each other better.”
“That’s not the issue,” Duke Frank interjected. “The truth is, we only discovered this morning that Aldrich has already given his heart to someone else.” He gestured toward me with a proud smile. “His mate is seated right here.”
