Mine and Only Mine...

Evelina stepped out of the grand hall, feeling a tightness in her chest and her heart pounding. She couldn't explain the turmoil swirling inside her—was it hurt, anger, or something else entirely? 

As the sound of applause and chatter faded behind her, she clenched her fists at her sides, willing herself to stay composed.

'Why does it matter?' She thought bitterly. 'It's not like I belong here. It's not like I belong with him.'

Just as she was about to head further down the corridor, Selene's saccharine voice stopped her in her tracks. "Aw, leaving so soon?"

Eve turned slowly, her expression hardening as Selene sauntered toward her. The other woman's smile had a mix of triumph and mockery while her gaze gleaming with satisfaction.

"I won," Selene said smugly, her hands resting on her hips. "Despite everything—despite that little mate bond of yours—I'm still the chosen one."