#Chapter 179: The Solstice

Iris This Solstice event is far more extravagant than the public ones I attended as a child. It’s held at the estate of some wealthy Ordan family or another, overlooking the city far below the hill the mansion is positioned on. Rows upon rows of expensive sports cars line the pebbled driveway, and there’s a steady stream of attendees making their way into the building. Arthur keeps his hand at the small of my back as we make our entrance, guiding me through the throng of Ordan’s elite. I can feel eyes on us, hear the whispers as we pass. The Alpha President and his controversial mate, appearing in public together despite the rumors of trouble in paradise. It stings, but I hold my head high, just as my mother advised, and force a smile. “You look breathtaking,” Arthur murmurs, leaning close so only I can hear. “Everyone’s staring at you, not us.” “I highly doubt that,” I reply bitterly, but I can’t help the small thrill that courses through me at his words.