Chapter 48: The Weight of Marriage

**Aldrich’s POV** “A misunderstanding?” I repeated, confused by my father’s explanation. He didn’t elaborate further, only responding cryptically, “It’s a confidentiality agreement. The case has been closed, and the details cannot be disclosed. But rest assured, it was indeed a misunderstanding. The secrecy is to protect the students involved.” I frowned. “If secrecy is the priority, then why did the newspapers expose the incident?” My father let out a disdainful chuckle. “The press? They thrive on sensationalism. But, my son, you’ve been in the military long enough to understand the intricacies of politics. The truth is often twisted to serve an agenda.” Though he didn’t state it outright, I understood what he meant. Someone among the elders was likely stirring trouble for the King. It wasn’t uncommon for the Lycan King to face criticism, and much of it stemmed from the fact that he had no heirs. Some within the council sought to use this as leverage to weaken his re