Martha hustled Lily through the crowded main hall, her weathered hands gently urging her forward. Everyone was packed into the space, their bodies forming a living barrier that parted reluctantly as they passed. Whispers followed them like shadows.
“Hurry, Luna!” Martha murmured anxiously. “The ceremony is about to begin.”
Ahead of them, Ezra appeared, his imposing figure cutting through the crowd with practiced ease.
“There you are,” he said, relief evident in his voice. “Alpha Zayn is waiting. The ceremony cannot start without the Luna present.”
Lily nodded, quickening her pace. She felt the weight of hundreds of eyes tracking her movement, some curious, others judgmental. As they approached the front of the hall, she saw Zayn standing on a raised platform, his powerful frame commanding attention without effort. His eyes locked with hers, his expression unreadable.
