Smart. Despite everything, pride swells in my chest at how quickly she’s adapting to a situation she never asked for.
“That works. I can provide documentation to support that story if your matriarch asks.”
“Good.” She turns toward the hallway. “I need to be alone.”
“Sera—”
“Don’t.” She holds up a hand without looking back. “Just don’t. I’ve agreed to your terms. I’ll work with you on this investigation because you’ve left me no other option. But I don’t have to like you or pretend this is anything other than what it is.”
I watch her walk down the hallway, each step taking her farther away, even though she’s staying under my roof. She finds the guest room and disappears inside.
A moment after the door closes, I hear the lock engage.
My wolf whines, distressed that our mate is upset. Upset that we’ve driven her away even while keeping her close. Whatever bond exists between us simmers with her resentment and anger, and it feels like poison in my veins.
But she’s safe. She’s here, under my protection, where Thornridge can’t reach her. Where whoever cursed Llewelyn can’t hurt her. That has to be enough.
Even if the victory feels hollow. Even if I can feel her pulling away from me through a connection she doesn’t even know exists yet. Even if I’ve just guaranteed she’ll hate me for forcing her hand.
She’s safe. That’s what matters.
I sink onto the couch and drop my head into my hands. These are going to be the longest few days of my life.
Chapter 7 - Sera
The ceiling above me is wrong.
I blink at the unfamiliar texture, at the way morning sun slants across beams I’ve never seen before, and for one blissful moment, I can’t remember why I’m not in my own bed. Then everything crashes back—the vision, the kidnapping attempt, and Reeyan’s infuriating ultimatum.
I’m trapped in Grayhide territory with a man who thinks he knows what’s best for me.
My wolf stretches inside me, fully restored now that the suppressor has worn off. She’s restless and agitated, pacing back and forth like she wants something but can’t articulate what. Every time I think about Reeyan, she perks up with interest that makes me cringe.
I push the feeling aside and reach for my phone on the nightstand. Multiple missed messages from my aunt’s office light up the screen, along with three from my sister, Caelan. Guilt twists in my stomach as I scroll through them.
Where are you?
Matriarch Lydia is asking about the eastern border documents.
Sera, please respond. People are worried.
I craft my response carefully, choosing each word with care. I can’t mention the vision—the warning was clear about that. I also can’t reveal the kidnapping attempt without triggering questions I’m not ready to answer or tell the truth without betraying the coercion that brought me here.
Safe and well. Staying with Raegan for a few days to work on an inter-pack research project. Historicaldocumentation related to the regional agreements. Will return soon. Please tell Aunt Lydia I’m sorry for the short notice.
The lie tastes sour, but what choice do I have? Reeyan backed me into this corner with his threats of formal reports and multi-pack scrutiny. Either I play along with his investigation, or I face interrogation from every council in the region.
I hit send before I can second-guess myself.
Caelan responds almost immediately.You’re with Raegan? Why didn’t you tell anyone you were leaving?
Last-minute opportunity. Didn’t want to wake anyone.Another lie. I’m racking them up like points in a game I never wanted to play.I’ll explain everything when I get back.
Be safe. Love you.
Love you too.
I set the phone down and stare at it for a long moment. My sister trusts me. My aunt trusts me. My entire pack trusts me to uphold our values and traditions. And here I am, lying to them while partnering with a Grayhide wolf who manipulated me into staying.
