The Betrayed Princess Rising (Lylah and Ezra) novel Chapter 432

Chapter 432

3rd Person’s POV

Rowan and Cora finally returned to their apartment.

Even for them, the mating ceremony had been exhausting.

F

Only hours earlier, the grand glasshouse hosting their engagement celebration had overflowed with guests. Eldric’s allies, Rowan’s investors, and Cora’s circle filled the venue beneath glittering crystal lights while music and laughter echoed through the night.

But the celebration was far from over. For now, however, Rowan and Cora had returned ahead of the others. Because after the formal bonding ceremony, came the political games.

More guests would arrive by morning. More alliances to secure. More appearances to maintain.

Inside their private chambers, Cora sat before her vanity, removing the ruby pins from her hair beneath warm golden light reflecting across the polished obsidian floors. Her white ceremonial gown pooled around her like melted moonlight.

“Rowan,” she said softly, wiping away the last traces of makeup, “tomorrow many Lunaris officials will come to congratulate us. Several Alphas from outside the city as well.” She glanced at him through the mirror. “Should we host them here… or reserve another venue?”

A small gasp escaped her suddenly.

“Oh Goddess-we also need to prepare the official announcement about the baby.”

Across the room, Rowan lounged against the couch with a glass of whiskey resting loosely in his hand.

Baby.

Even now, the word felt strangely unreal.

His wolf remained quiet whenever he thought about it-not excited, not possessive, not even curious.

He couldn’t even remember the last time he had touched Cora intimately before her announcement. The timing still didn’t make sense no matter how he turned it over in his mind.

“That can wait,” Rowan said at last, swirling the amber liquid in his glass. “What matters most right now is Commander Ivar.”

Cora’s fingers paused mid-motion against her hair.

Rowan continued, unaware of the subtle panic flickering beneath her skin. “I need him to come here personally. The media has already started documenting everything surrounding this mating. If they capture Ivar of Whitepine standing beside me, it changes everything.”

He rose slowly from the couch, power shifting beneath his skin as his wolf stirred with pride.

“Business alliances are one thing, but Commander Ivar is one of the most respected and feared elders in Verdanth. I need him there so the other Alphas will look at me-not only as successful in my business, but

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14:52 Sat, May 23

Chapter 432

as one of the great Alphas of Verdanth.”

Cora forced a smile onto her lips.

F

hed

“I already sent word to Commander Ivar. He’ll surely come congratulate us.” She murmured carefully.

But the lie nearly strangled her.

Deep down, terror clawed violently through her wolf.

There was no chance Ivar would come.

Trying to bury the panic rising inside her chest, Cora rose from the vanity and crossed the room slowly. Her silk nightgown whispered against the marble floor as she approached Rowan.

“But even if he doesn’t,” she said softly, sliding her hands over his shoulders, “it won’t truly matter. You’ve already secured enough alliances after the Venture. Your reputation is stronger than ever.”

“I want two swords in my hand, Cora.” Rowan adjusted the cuffs of his suit again. “I strengthened my business reputation. Yes.” he corrected flatly. “But that’s different. I also need the Alpha circles to acknowledge Blackfang itself.”

Before Cora could respond,

A knock sounded at the chamber door.

Both looked up instantly.

“Enter.”

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