#Chapter 144: Uncomfortable Expectations

The victory feast felt like a nightmare dressed up as a celebration. Blood Moon's great hall looked like a fairy tale come to life. Golden silk banners hung from every beam. Tables groaned under enough food to feed everyone. All the guests in attendance were decked out in their finest clothes. Fresh flowers were everywhere. It was the kind of event most Lunas would be proud to present. But I found myself struggling to get into a celebratory mood. The whole pack buzzed with excitement. Not just because we'd finally gotten rid of Giana and the Rogue King, but because they'd all decided this meant Raymond and I were back together. A happy ending to close out the fairy tale. I stood next to Raymond at the head table, wearing a deep blue gown that I was told “beautifully complemented his formal Alpha attire." We looked picture-perfect. United Alpha and Luna, presenting strength and harmony to our people. I couldn’t help but cringe at how that couldn’t be further from the truth.