#Chapter 192: Warm Dreams & Cold Realities

Iris Within a matter of days, Arthur’s upcoming wedding to Veronica is the talk of the town. Every news channel, every magazine cover, every social media feed is plastered with their faces. Their love story—their “true mate bond”—has captured the public’s imagination. They’re being called star-crossed lovers, finally united by fate. It makes me sick. I’ve managed to avoid most of it by keeping the TV off and deleting my social media accounts, but it’s impossible to escape completely. Even at the grocery store, their beaming faces smile at me from the magazine rack. Veronica in a stunning white gown. Arthur in his presidential suit. The citrine ring—my ring—prominently displayed on her finger. “Werewolf President Finds True Mate: Wedding of the Century Just Weeks Away!” And somehow worse than all of that: “Former Mate Physically Assaults Future Luna—Is Iris the Jewel Killer?” I have to turn away and leave the store immediately when I see that o