Harlow and Henry attend their first formal dinner at the fort since their wedding. Harlow feels the scrutiny of the other families, who are whispering about the rumors involving her and Stefan. She also worries that a violent blackout she experienced is a sign of the same “madness” that afflicts her father and brother, and she is preoccupied with her Aidia’s safety back in Lunameade. She reflects on Henry’s tender care for her after the incident, realizing with unease that she is developing a begrudging affection for him.

During the dinner, Stefan glares at them from across the room. Harlow resolves to deal with him herself if Henry does not. As they are leaving, they are confronted by Stefan and his friends. He taunts Harlow, and Gaven pins him against a wall. The arrival of Kyrin, Henry’s wolf, de-escalates the physical conflict, but Stefan issues a threat against both Harlow and Gaven before storming off. Harlow regrets provoking him, knowing he will feel justified in retaliating.

Henry reflects on Gaven’s growing suspicion about him. Henry knows he will eventually have to kill Gaven to protect his plans but wants to extract information from him first, intending to make the death look like an accident to preserve Harlow’s trust.