#Chapter 137: The Engagement Goes Public

Caleb once more sits on his throne in front of the Alpha Council, staring down at them in judgement and distrust. His earlier meeting with Harper had only helped him somewhat, but now that they were separated, Caleb’s dark thoughts were returning with a vengeance, somehow even worse than before. When he left his chambers, Annabelle was waiting for him. She smiled and seemed kind enough, though remained quite insistent that she join him to his afternoon council. Especially since Harper wasn’t going to be joining him. Now, she sits off to the side of the stage, too close to be proper for a woman unrelated to the King, but not close enough to be his betrothed. This started rumors among the council. Caleb could see them forming, questions raising. Curious eyes would look between Annabelle and Caleb and back again. Caleb couldn’t care less about their curiosity. Let them look and wonder. Let them suspect all they want. Their loyalty is the only thing that truly interests Caleb.