#Chapter 72: Whispers of Suspicion

The preparations for Marcus's funeral ceremony enveloped the pack in a somber hush. Ancient traditions required three days of preparation before we could lay our Alpha to rest, and I found myself immersed in the rituals I'd studied since childhood but never expected to perform so soon. I watched Raymond move through his father's quarters, his grief evident in the slump of his shoulders and the shadows beneath his eyes. Despite everything that had happened between us, I felt a complicated mixture of emotions—anger at his betrayal mingled with pity for his manipulation. "These were my father's favorite ceremonial items," Raymond said, his voice hollow as he handed me a wooden box containing silver ritual objects. "He always said you understood the old ways better than anyone." Our fingers briefly touched during the exchange, and for a moment, I saw confusion flicker across his face—the sensation of our severed mate bond still new to both of us. "I'll make sure they're prepared pr