VALERIE
The moment Caleb dragged me into his pack house, I could feel the weight of every gaze fixed on us. My heart pounded in my chest as the room fell silent, eyes widening in shock and curiosity. I knew my return would cause a stir, but I hadn't expected the air to feel this thick, almost suffocating. I barely had time to process the onlookers before Esther's voice cut through the tension like a blade.
"Well, well, look who decided to crawl back," Esther sneered, standing at the doorway with her arms crossed over her chest. Her eyes were sharp, her lips curled into a mocking smile. "You realise you couldn't hide forever or the money ran out? After all, living in luxury has become a habit for you."
Her words stung, but I forced myself to keep my expression neutral. I knew Esther neve
