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I glance at the wall clock. “We are going to need some volunteers, though. But not today. The ceremony starts in two hours. I have to go get ready.”

Jerry makes a sound of agreement. “What are you going to wear? It’s formal, so you need a dress, y’know.”

I glance down at my blouse. I still haven’t filled out enough to wear the dresses I have. And I don’t think I have time to go get a new one. I’ve been so busy with working on the drug that going shopping has been the furthest thing from my mind.

“I’ll figure something out,” I murmur.

My nights have been filled with Griffin, my days with work. Is it any wonder I forgot?

I carefully put the vial away. After taking off my lab coat, I hesitate in the doorway, remembering that the last time I was attacked, there had been a function going on in the palace.

“Jerry.” My voice is tense. “We have increased security around the lab, right?”

His expression relaxes, and his voice is comforting. “Yes. Don’t worry.”

I give him a smile that feels fake. “If you say so.”

Making my way down the stairs, I see Leanna, Cedric, and Griffin talking in low voices. Leanna spots me first and beams at me.

“Maya!”

Griffin goes still, and before I can say anything, he murmurs something to Cedric and walks away, his steps a little too hurried, in my opinion.

Blinking, I stare after him as Leanna reaches me.

“Is it me, or did Griffin just avoid me?”

My friend rolls her eyes. “It’s you. He’s a little distracted.”

My heart quickens. “What is it?”

“After the ceremony tonight, Griffin, Cedric, and Erik are planning to search for the facility where you two were held captive.”

I can feel the blood drain from my face. “What? Why wasn’t I told?”

“The decision was made just a little while ago. They believe they’ve located it, based on the descriptions the two of youprovided.” She squeezes my hand. “They’re planning to take two squadrons with them.”

“Why didn’t he tell me? He should have told me.” Anger flares, hot and bright.

“Why?” Leanna’s voice is sly. “Since when does Griffin need to tell you anything he does? This wouldn’t happen to have anything to do with the fact that the two of you smell like you’ve been rolling around with each other, would it?”

“Wh—Of course not!” Flustered, I try to figure out what to do with my hands. “It’s just that he’s not—He’s barely recovered, you know. It’s only been a couple weeks since we’ve been back, and he—What if something happens?!”

“Nothing’s going to happen,” my friend comforts me. “They’ll be surrounded by some of their strongest soldiers. And these are three powerful alphas. Nothing will happen to them.”

“I know, but—” I hesitate. “I need to go talk to him.”

“Sure you do,” Leanna laughs. “Be sure that’s all you do, Maya. He can’t be late to his own crowning ceremony!”

Huffing, I head after Griffin. However, I can’t find him, and no one seems to know where he is.

Finally, I make my way to his private chambers, gathering my courage before knocking firmly on the door. No answer. I try the handle and find it unlocked. The room is empty, but I can feel his presence lingering—his scent, that unique blend of pine and wild rain that makes my heart race.

“Looking for someone?”

I whirl around to find Elder Vane’s daughter, Aria, standing in the doorway. She is dressed in an elaborate gown of deep emerald that complements her pale skin and dark hair perfectly. Everything about her screams nobility, from her perfect posture to the calculated smile on her lips.

“I was looking for Griffin,” I say, forcing my voice to remain steady.