Chapter 82 - A Rematch

The bustling atmosphere of the Brannon estate subsided as guests gradually made their way back to their rooms, marking the end of the celebration. With the exception of the sporadic crackle of the dying embers in the fireplace, the large hall that had once been alive with laughing, music, and the clinking of glasses lay silent. Masque excused himself for the evening after exchanging pleasantries with Luna Anne and Alpha Brannon while still posing as Luna Katherine. “Do not hesitate to ask for help if you need it” Alpha Brannon said and Masque nodded, bowing his head “Thank you, both of you” he said, before walking away. Masque felt an odd combination of eagerness and satisfaction as he made his way to the room allotted to him. Though the evening's events had gone as planned, much work remained to be done. Upon entering the room, he gently shut the door behind him and moved towards the bed. Its luxurious linens and cushions standing in sharp contrast to the rough existence his