Page 65 of A Crown of Fates

“Invite them to the ball,”Theo inserts. “Tomorrow night.”

I glance at him.“We’ll be ready by then?”

He nods, his gaze sure and steady, and I give my attention back to the people, their excitement still palpable. “To celebrate this next chapter, we are inviting you all to a ball tomorrow evening. A chance for us to come together as a pack, to honor our past, to celebrate our win over the god who stole me, and to look forward to the future as one.”

The cheers that follow are deafening, the pack’s energy profound. My chest tightens with emotion, and as I glance at Theo, his pride shines brightly.

He pulls me against his side and presses a kiss to my temple. “I can’t wait to make you my queen.”

I try to be as enthusiastic as everyone around me, forcing a smile as I look up at Theo, but the mention of the party sends a chill down my spine. I’m thrilled to see the pack coming together like this, but Orix is still out there, possibly watching us and waiting for his chance to strike. While I won’t let that knowledge ruin what’s still to come, especially when his showing up is exactly what we’re hoping for, I can’t dismiss the feeling that tomorrow might bring the fight of our lives.

CHAPTER THIRTY-FOUR

THEO

Something’s off with Estee. She smiles at the pack as they file out of the hall, their faces lit with hope and anticipation, but unease whispers through our bond. Though subtle, it’s enough to raise the hairs on the back of my neck.

I tug gently on her hand, urging her toward the royal suite where we can talk, but she stays rooted to the stage. She waves and offers confirmation that she’ll be seeing everyone shortly for the pack run. When Drea comes toward us with Orion trailing her, I resign myself to being patient.

“You did so good up there,” she exclaims, wrapping Estee in a tight hug. “I’ve never been more interested in a royal speech in my entire life.”

Estee blushes, her shrug modest. “Thank you. It wasn’t much, but as long as the people of Selaris are safe and happy, so am I.”

Drea’s gaze shifts to me, sharp but not unkind. “Apologizing to the people was a nice touch, King Theo.”

“I owe you one as well,” I say, my tone genuine. “You were trying to help, and I dismissed you. I hope you can forgive me.”

The last thing I need is for my mate’s closest friend to hate me. Even if I’m not entirely sorry for my actions that day, I know Drea needs this just as Estee does.

Drea’s spine straightens, her demeanor shifting. “I guess I’m sorry too. I shouldn’t have accused you of hiding her and pretending someone else took her. And I shouldn’t have called you all those names.”

I raise a brow, slightly confused by her apology.

She shrugs. “Not everything was said to your face, but in case it gets back to you, just know I’m sorry.”

Estee’s laughter fills the hall, the sound rich and warm, and I find myself smiling. Each time I’m around Drea, I understand more why she and Estee are such good friends.

“You’ll be joining us for the run, right?” Estee asks, glancing toward the exit.

Drea looks up at Orion, and he answers. “Of course. Selaris hasn’t had an official run like this in years. I don’t think there’s a single shifter here who will miss it.”

Guilt slithers up my throat, but I push it aside. I’ve already promised to do better, and I can’t be the best version of me if I’m still stuck in the past, on the things I can’t change.

“While I still hope everyone comes tonight,” I say sincerely as I extend my hand to him, “this will be the first of many moving forward. I assure you of that.”

Orion’s grip is firm. “I look forward to seeing you keep that promise.”

“See you out there.” Drea waves then she and Orion make their way outside.

I keep Estee close, not ready to rejoin the pack yet.

My eyes find hers as I lightly grip her waist.“Are you okay? Something was bothering you right after the speech.”

Her golden eyes meet mine, her smile radiant but tinged with something I can’t quite place.“I’m glad to be here and to dothese things for the pack. It just surprised me that we’re having the ball so soon. I thought it would be something we talked about more.”

“I’m sorry, Estee.”Gods, how could I not consider her feelings about this?“I quickly asked Jerome as you were speaking how soon he thought we could host the party, and when he said tomorrow, I agreed. I just want to get this over with…but I should’ve confirmed with you instead of forcing that information on you like I did.”

She squeezes my hands, her touch grounding me.“No, you’re right. The sooner the better. I just want to make sure we’re prepared. That we can keep everyone safe.”

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