Chapter 69

AUBREY'S POV The cabin felt cozy and warm as Knox and I settled onto the worn leather couch, the remnants of our earlier tension slowly fading. Outside, crickets had begun their evening chorus, and the lake reflected the first stars appearing in the darkening sky. "We need to talk about the wedding," Knox said, his fingers absently playing with my hair. "It's going to be in ten days." I sat up straighter, surprised by the sudden timeline. "So soon?" He nodded, his expression serious. "The awakening ritual is approaching, and you'll need time to prepare beforehand. The wedding will take place after the ritual." He paused, seeming to consider something. "Lena will be arriving soon to help with the ritual preparations." "Lena?" The name sent a chill down my spine as I remembered Jax's warning: Stay away from her. Witches can see through lies. "She's a witch," Knox explained, oblivious to my internal turmoil. "And a close friend of ours, especially Rose. They've known each other for years.