#Chapter 9: Stolen Glory

"I swear on the Moon Goddess herself, I'm going to rip that fake smile right off her face!" Lily slammed her fist against the table, her eyes blazing with fury. "How dare she manipulate Raymond like that?" I placed a gentle hand on my best friend's arm. "Lily, please. You'll only make things worse." "Worse?" She scoffed. "Aurora, that girl is playing victim while actively trying to sabotage you, and Raymond is too blinded by his mate bond to see it!" I winced at the truth in her words but maintained my composure. I couldn't afford to lose control—not with so much at stake. The annual school visit from the Alpha and Luna was approaching fast. This event had always been my responsibility, and I took pride in organizing it flawlessly each time. "Aurora." Raymond's voice cut through my thoughts as he approached our table in the cafeteria. "I need to speak with you." Lily shot him a vicious glare before reluctantly giving us space. "What is it?" I asked, keeping my voice stead