Chapter 9

Scarlett The night before Lucien’s arrival, my eyes fell on my wardrobe that looked like a bird’s nest. The silk, the lace, the dresses—were all scattered, and the culprit, Ruby, was clutching a tight, deep-V, crimson gown with shining eyes. “This,” she declared, swinging it dramatically, “will have every pair of eyes glued to you.” I rubbed my temples. “Ruby, I’m not trying to seduce the Alphas.” “You’re trying to influence a man with a kingdom of wolves at his back,” she countered. “And trust me, men are stupid creatures. They follow the scent, not the speech.” I almost laughed. If only it were that simple. I walked past her, and my gaze landed on the sleeveless state-blue high-neck gown next to her. It caught my eye. “This one,” I said. Ruby squinted. “That screams leadership, not seductress.” “I need Lucien to see me as the ruler of this pack—not Alexander’s abandoned mate.” Her expression softened, respectful. She nodded. “Then that’s your dress.” My thoughts drifted, uninvited, t