[Meredith].
"You're right about one thing," I said calmly. There was no need to raise my voice. "I don't have to rely on Draven to stand here."
The Princess blinked, momentarily thrown off by a heartbeat.
I moved closer—not in a threatening way, but with a confidence that made her straighten.
"You judge me by the wolf you think I should have," I said. "By the stories you heard. By the rumours whispered by people who fear what they don't understand."
Her jaw tightened.
"But if you expect your words to break me," I added softly, "you will be disappointed."
Her eyes narrowed. "Are you challenging me?"
"No," I said with a faint smile. "I'm correcting you."
Behind her, the servants bowed their heads, hiding their expressions, but I could feel their surprise and attention.
"And while you're deciding what you think I deserve," I continued, "perhaps remember that respect isn't tied to rank or title. It's tied to character."
Her lips parted. She looked utterly stunned.
