?Chapter 989:


    This was precisely what I’d intended.


    I turned to Jenny, her face taut with nerves, and issued a firmmand, “Stand guard downstairs. If anyone approaches, alert me at once!” She nodded hurriedly, and we parted to carry out our roles.


    Bracing myself, I stepped into the dimness alone, creeping toward the main building’s fifth floor. All the guards were preupied with the fire, leaving the hallways hauntingly still, my footsteps reverberating in the quiet.


    I strained to catch any sound, my senses heightened as I made my way to Cody’s study.


    Thick curtains smothered the flickering glow of the fire outside, casting the room in near darkness. I dropped low, rifling through shelves and the desk with frantic urgency.


    Then, the sound of footsteps echoed from the corridor, and my body froze in terror. I ducked behind the desk, my breath held captive in my chest.


    The steps drew nearer, my pulse racing and sweat spreading across my back. Thankfully, they didn’t pause at the door but faded into the distance.


    I let out a shaky breath, starting to ease out from my hiding spot when my eyes caught on a wooden box tucked beneath the desk. Brows knitting, I pulled it free and pried it open, my breath catching at the sight within.


    Nestled inside was damning proof of Cody’s misdeeds, irrefutable evidence of his treason!


    Makenna’s POV:


    As the night deepened, the city hushed into stillness, with only a scattering of headlights piercing the dark veil outside. I drew my coat closer against the chill and hastened toward the hotel where the three princes awaited.


    In the penthouse suite, a warm glow bathed the room. The three princes sat huddled around a coffee table strewn with papers, their voices low and grave, the air thick with concentration.


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    “Good evening,” I said, offering a smile as I stepped closer.


    At the sound of my voice, all three looked up at me simultaneously.


    Bryan’s stare lingered, his forehead creasing as a shadow of suspicion crossed his face. “Makenna, something about you… it’s different.”


    My stomach dropped, the smile on my lips stiffening. Swallowing the unease bubbling up, I forced a casual tone. “What? I’m not sure what you’re getting at.”


    yton’s eyes narrowed, his piercing gaze raking over me. His voice dropped, cool and edged. “Yes, there’s definitely something off.”


    Only Dominic lounged back on the couch, a subtle smirk tugging at his lips, exuding an air of effortlessmand.


    Bryan’s expression darkened, a steely glint sparking in his eyes. “There’s something strange about your scent.”


    yton edged nearer, studying me with intent, his tone deep and probing. “Makenna, why do I smell Dominic on you?”


    My chest constricted, and I turned my face aside, my voice faltering. “You’re imagining things. That’s impossible…”


    Before I could finish, Dominic stood up from the couch and strolled to my side, slinging an arm around my shoulders with easy confidence. “No need to specte. Makenna’s my mate now. We’ve sealed the bond.”


    My pulse stuttered, heat rushing to my face. I elbowed him lightly, muttering, “Don’t say that…” But instead of relenting, he tightened his grip, staking his im with quiet defiance.


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