"Withdraw from the rite trial quietly. Hold a public howl and return all the glory that doesn't belong to you." Her grip tightened, claws threatening to emerge. "Otherwise, don't force me to break off our intended mate-claim!"
She was surprisingly strong. She'd dragged me several steps before I could even think to resist.
I frowned. "Intended mate-claim?"
My parents had never mentioned any arranged bonding. They'd always supported me finding my true mate on my own.
What was she talking about?
My genuine confusion must have looked like fear to her.
Disdain flickered in her amber eyes. "If my parents hadn't insisted I get close to you, I wouldn't have spared you a second glance!"
Darian let tears roll down his cheeks, playing the gracious victim.
"If he won't admit it, just let it go. It's only a rite trial. There's always next cycle."
Before I could reiterate that I really did come in last—that I hadn't pulled any tricks—
Selene rushed to shield him, her protective stance unmistakable.
"You come from nothing, Darian! You were counting on winning first place to pay your tribute to the Academy! By next cycle, you'll have been cast out of the pack territories!"