I stood frozen in the doorway, taking in the scene before me. Seraphina kneeling on the floor with blood dripping from her nose. My father radiating Alpha power that made the air feel thick and heavy. And Julian—my Julian—staring at her with an expression I couldn't quite read.
"What's going on?" Julian asked, his voice cutting through the tension.
Father turned to him, eyes still glowing with power. "You tell me. My daughter claims you two are fated mates."
I watched Julian's face carefully. His jaw tightened, and for a heartbeat, I saw something flash in his eyes—panic? Guilt? But then his expression softened as he looked at me.
"Camille," he said gently. "You weren't supposed to find out like this."
My heart cracked a little more. So it was true.
"When exactly was I supposed to find out?" I demanded, my voice trembling. "After the wedding?"
Julian moved toward me, hands outstretched. "Please, let me explain."
