Daphne's POV
The booklet felt weightless in my hands. Something that could destroy lives should have more substance to it.
I forced myself to read the first rule slowly, making sure each word registered.
"Male Guardian Protocol. All unmarried women of standing must be assigned a male overseer. Regardless of bloodline. Regardless of rank. No unaccompanied meetings. No unescorted departures from grounds. Violations result in immediate isolation."
My hands trembled slightly. I read it again, hoping the words would rearrange themselves into something reasonable.
They didn't.
The second rule made my blood run cold.
"Eye Contact Restrictions. Women are forbidden from sustained eye contact with Alpha males unless granted permission. Such behavior constitutes disrespect and warrants public discipline."
