Chapter 21

• ESMERAY
• My hands were curled into fists as I made my way to the dining table with Smythe leading the way, and it had nothing to do with how uncomfortable I felt with what I was wearing, or the many eyes that were fixed on me. Everyone looked on as we passed, whispering amongst themselves and some even pointing at me without making any efforts to hide it. Many looked on with admiration and envy and some with scorn. Others, it was hard to place their expressions. But my thoughts were in no way connected to my present surroundings. My thoughts were with Prince Draven. He was still with Heather. It wasn’t any of my business but I couldn’t help but wonder what they were up to. Heather was pretty, a royal from a noble background, and there was no denying the bond the both of them shared. I was a nobody, definitely not a match for a man of his status. But why did I feel uncomfortable that they’d been together for the last hour? He wants me to put up a good show but is Smythe supposed to be the one showing me to the table?
• I bet he is having a good time with Heather. I may be pretending to be his mate, but I wasn’t his true mate, and he could be with any woman of his choice if he wanted. Not like he gave me a choice but I probably should never have agreed to this in the first place. Was I even good at acting? Even clad in this expensive attire, it still felt like anybody will take one look at me and realise I was a traitor, a dirty omega. No matter how many times I was cleaned or the amount of expensive fragrance I was adorned with, I’d always be filthy. The glances and side talks said it all. I couldn’t even walk properly in heels. My feet were already hurting after a few steps. How long could I really act this out?