Chapter 8: Mating Night

Olivia's POV

Nightfall came a lot faster than I had expected. And while I was looking forward to my mating ritual, I couldn't deny the doubts and fears bubbling up deep down in my heart. Damian was a good man, but his brother and ex fiance didn't exactly like me. I was the reason that they had lost, and I could tell that neither of them wanted me to be here.

The evening air was cool, but the chill did nothing for the feeling swelling up inside of me. The maids worked tirelessly, gently guiding me into the gown that had been specially prepared for the ritual.

It was a deep emerald green, made of the finest silk, it clung to my figure like it was woven just for me. The neckline was modest but elegant, dipping just enough to hint at the curves beneath without revealing too much.

I stared at my reflection in the mirror, and while I was proud of the work they'd done, my expression failed to convey my thoughts. I was afraid, paranoid, and couldn't help but feel that history might repeat i