His dark eyes tracked over me. Over the marks I couldn't hide. Over the careful way I moved. Over the change in my scent that filled the theater the instant I entered.
He knew. Of course he knew. Everyone knew.
But all he said was, "Whatever happened during your illness, Ms. Levine, keep it."
I blinked. "What?"
"This." He gestured at me, encompassing everything. "This presence. This confidence. This is the Vespera I cast. The one who's been hiding under fear and suppressants. Welcome back."
The words hit like a physical blow. He could see it. See the difference between the Omega who'd left three days ago—terrified of heat, fighting biology, barely holding on—and the one standing here now.
I wasn't less after the heat. I was more.
"Thank you," I managed.
"Don't thank me yet. You've missed three days of blocking and we open in two weeks." He clapped his hands. "But before we start—everyone, gather. Important announcement."
The cast assembled, and I climbed the stage stairs to join them, finding my spot near Ben.
De Scarzis waited until we were all present. "I've received confirmation this morning. Vivian Strasberg from Sterling Theater Group will be attending our Fall Showcase."
Murmurs rippled through the cast. Vivian Strasberg. One of the most respected casting directors in New York. Known for discovering talent at college showcases and launching careers.
"Ms. Strasberg specifically requested to see this production after hearing about our casting." De Scarzis's eyes found mine. "She's interested in seeing fresh talent. New voices. Performers who bring something unique to the stage."
My heart was pounding so hard I could barely hear the rest.
"This is the opportunity many of you have been working toward. Broadway scouts don't attend college showcases often. When they do, they're looking for something exceptional. Something that makes them take notice." He paused. "You've all earned this chance. Now prove you deserve it."
The cast broke into excited chatter. Ben grabbed my arm, grinning.
"Did you hear that? Vivian Strasberg! She launched Celeste Kaufman's career. And Iris Beaumont. If she likes what she sees—"
"I know," I said, trying to keep my voice steady. "I know what it means."
But did I? Vivian Strasberg watching me perform in two weeks. A casting director who could open doors I'd only dreamed about. Who could offer roles that would mean...
What would it mean? Leaving Northwood? Moving to New York? Making choices about my future that affected the pack?
"Places for Scene Eight," De Scarzis called. "Let's see if Ms. Levine can remember her blocking or if we're starting from scratch."
The cast scattered. I found my mark, settling into Hedda's skin like putting on armor. Ben appeared beside me, my scene partner, looking concerned.
"You okay?" he asked quietly.
"I'm fine."
"Vespera—"
"Really. I'm fine, Ben." I softened my tone. "Just glad to be back."
He didn't look convinced, but he nodded. "Okay. But if you need anything—"
"I know. Thank you."
The scene began. And the instant I opened my mouth, the instant Hedda's words left my lips, something clicked into place.
Power. Real power. Not the kind Alphas tried to claim over me. Not the kind biology had forced on me. But the power that came from choosing. From surviving. From standing on a stage and commanding attention because I fucking earned it.
