Chapter81 “

Selena's POV

"Punishment." The word echoed in my mind, as if it alone could redeem me. I was willing to endure anything, no matter how harsh, if it meant protecting my father. And if... if it meant Hudson might look at me as his fated mate once more.

I could bear the pain, the humiliation, whatever Hudson decided was just. All I wanted was a chance to prove myself—to show him that my love, my loyalty, was real.

"It’s nothing, I will accept any punishment" I whispered to myself, clutching the faint hope that Hudson's heart might soften.

“ Don’t you want to know where your father is?” My eye widened. How did Alpha king Thomas know? “ yes ,I do” I said.

“ He is here in the palace ”

I turned sharply at the sound of her voice. She approached, her face a mix of anger and determination, but all I felt was the storm brewing inside me. How could she come near me after what she had said?

“Don’t. Just don’t,” I snapped, cutting her off before she could say another word. “You have n