Ruby’s POV
I don’t have to guess why Cindy bolted.
Pride like hers doesn’t bend easily, and the Moon just tied her to Roger. Someone who isn’t even in the running for Alpha in his own pack, the one everyone overlooks and steps on.
Of course she’d feel trapped, like the bond is a joke meant to rub salt in her wounds.
The lake wind bites at my cheeks as I step onto the trail, boots sliding on wet leaves. Cindy’s scent is still sharp ahead, anger and fear tangled together.
Behind me, back where the lanterns thin, Tyler stays with Roger. I don’t have to look to know Roger is wrecked, breathing like he’s trying not to fall apart in front of anyone. Tyler will keep him steady. Tyler will keep him from doing something desperate.
I go alone anyway.
Sure enough, I find Cindy by the lake wher
