The Silent Luna's Trial (Maple and Finn) novel Chapter 60

Chapter 6

Audrey had no inkling of what was about to unfold.

The day had begun like any other, with its usual rhythm and quiet routines. No one around her suspected that this would be the last time they saw her in this familiar light.

Tessa carefully placed her few belongings in a secure corner of the room. She had made up her mind—once she left, she would take nothing with her. No remnants, no reminders.

By the time she arrived back at the house, the sun was dipping low, casting long shadows across the floor. Ryan wasted no time; he appeared with a collection of wedding dresses he had handpicked, laying them out meticulously before her.

“The mate ceremony only happens once,” he said with a firm tone. “You can’t settle for anything less than perfect.”

“Choose whichever one you like,” he added, his eyes gleaming with expectation.

Tessa’s gaze drifted over the row of pristine white gowns, each folded and arranged with care. For a moment, she was lost in thought, her mind wandering through memories and doubts. When she looked up at Ryan again, her eyes shimmered unexpectedly with unshed tears.

How easy it was, she realized, to pretend to love.

But what exactly was it that Ryan loved? Was it her? Or just the idea of her?

Without much hesitation, Ryan picked up one of the dresses and handed it to her with a casual smile.

“This one’s perfect for you. Go try it on.”

Tessa didn’t refuse. Even though none of these dresses could compare to the one she had designed herself, she slipped into the second gown. When she stepped out, she noticed Ryan had taken a call, his voice low and guarded.

“Do you want me to come now? I’m with Tessa, trying on dresses.”

“Okay, I’ll be there soon.”

Though he spoke in a whisper, trying to keep the conversation hidden in the corner, Tessa caught every word.

After ending the call, Ryan smiled and wrapped his arms around her waist.

“Babe, you’d look amazing in anything.”

He hesitated before adding, “The pack needs me for something, so I might not be able to go with you. Pick whichever dress you want.”

Tessa recognized the excuse for what it was. He wasn’t going to some pack emergency—he was going to meet Chloe and spend the afternoon shopping with her.

She said nothing more, only nodded quietly.

Once Ryan had left, Tessa summoned the maid and, her voice cold and resolute, ordered, “Burn all of them.”

VERIFYCAPTCHA_LABELVerify