---- He lowered his voice, speaking quickly, "Don't get the wrong idea. I brought Elena here today because some of the pack elders wanted me to. You know, pure-blood Omegas like her are very precious. The elders are taking this Marking ceremony very seriously, and they insisted I personally accompany her to sort out some details. " "Tonight... the elders have arranged a family dinner, and Elena will be there. I'm telling you in advance so you don't... misunderstand." Seeing him "worried" about me like this, I suddenly found it hilarious. Elena was the Luna he was about to publicly acknowledge, the woman he'd schemed to elevate. Now, with the Marking ceremony so close, his grand revenge drama was about to conclude. Who was this fake explanation for? ---- "Don't worry, I understand. Since it's the elders! arrangement, you should just do it. I won't be so unreasonable," I said, trying to keep my voice steady. "You go on. I'll wait for you at home." He seemed to let out a breath, then personally called a pack car to take me home. Turning back, he led Elena towards the workshop where they were designing the future Luna's gown. Elena's sweet, triumphant Omega scent still lingered in the air.