Chapter 97

AUBREY'S POV The reception felt endless, a blur of forced smiles and hollow congratulations. The grand hall glowed with hundreds of candles, their light reflecting off the crystal chandeliers and casting dancing shadows on the walls. White roses and lilies perfumed the air, their sweet scent almost cloying after hours of celebration. Each guest who approached offered their best wishes, completely unaware of the tension thrumming between Knox and me. His hand rested at the small of my back as we greeted pack members, the warmth of his touch a confusing contrast to the coldness in his eyes. Every point of contact burned through the delicate lace of my wedding dress. "You make such a beautiful couple," an elderly pack member gushed, clasping my hands in hers. Her gray hair was elegantly styled, and her eyes shone with genuine joy. "Just like it was meant to be." Knox's fingers tightened almost imperceptibly against my back. "Thank you," he said smoothly, his Alpha voice perfectly controll