Chapter 5: The Founders' Supper

I went back to Snow Moon Lodge for the Founders' supper because I wanted to see my sisters' gowns up close.

Jasper drove me to the gate and did not argue.

"I'm a guest of the Council tonight," he said. "I'll be at the guest table. If you want me, look at me."

"I won't want you."

"Then look at me anyway."

I walked into the great hall alone, in the blue dress Margot had sent over with a driver.

Four hundred people were seated at the long tables under the antlers.

The room went silent from the door to the high table, one row at a time.

My father rose from his carved chair.

"My daughter has come home," Gordon said, and spread his arms.

Some of the pack clapped.

He walked down the aisle toward me, and for a moment I thought he might actually apologise.

Then I saw what he had in his hand.

It was a small velvet pouch, dark green.

"A peace gift," he said, loud enough for every table. "From a father to a daughter who has had a hard day. One gem for your gown, Clara."

He loosened the drawstring and tipped it into his palm.

A single snowflake of pale moonstone lay in his hand, catching the lamplight.

It was lovely, and I wanted to take it.

"Take it, and we'll say no more," my father said gently. "The pack will see that you forgave us."

"Dad, thank you," I said.

I watched his face relax.

Keep reading free with an account. Start My Gown Had No Gems, So I Walked Out of My Own Bonding Ceremony from Chapter 1, then sign up free to read the rest of this chapter.