She was chosen to be his mate. No love is required at first, but the decree of the fates. As tradition demands, the council selected a partner for the young Alpha, led by the fates and believing she would be the perfect complement to his rule. But when the bond is forged without affection or choice, what begins as duty quickly festers into cruelty. Silenced and betrayed, she survives the ultimate insult: an attempt on her life orchestrated by the very man meant to protect and love her. But death never came. Five years later, she stands at the head of her own pack, stronger and no longer bound to anyone. Her sanctuary thrives, built with sweat and strength. When her past returns, desperate and unaware of who she’s become, the shadows stir once more. The bond that broke her is back. But she is no longer the woman he cast aside. She is Alpha now.