Chapter 13 · A Different Groom in Three Days

"You have seventy-two hours." Vera slides the contract across the table like she's dealing cards. "After that, you marry Ronan, or the council voids your moon-ring and fines Kael for breach."

I don't pick it up. I look at Kael instead.

He's standing by the window, hands in his pockets, face blank. Like he didn't just kiss poison off my wrist two hours ago. Like he doesn't care if I get handed to his cousin like a returned coat.

"That's not legal," I say. My voice comes out steadier than I feel. "The ring's already locked. You can't just swap me out."

Vera smiles. It's the kind of smile that makes you check your back for knives. "Actually, we can. If the bride's bloodline is proven impure, the match defaults to the next eligible female in her family line. That's you. But since you're... unsuitable, the council may redirect the contract to a more appropriate candidate."

"More appropriate.