Cierra:
The night bit at my skin, sharp and cold, but I welcomed it. Pain steadied me. It was better than the hollow ache Dane had carved through me, better than the fire Alyssa’s bold little kiss had left festering in my chest.
The pack gathered for the run, but it wasn’t the usual hum of energy. No laughter. No playful shoves. Just silence that clung like smoke. Wolves didn’t need gossip rags to spread stories—our eyes, our ears, our instincts did the work for us. They all knew. Every single one of them knew.
And they were waiting.
For me. For Dane. For blood, maybe.
Natalie pressed close, her shoulder brushing mine like a warning and a shield all at once. Don’t stumble here, her touch said. Don’t let them see you bleed.
I wouldn’t. I was done bleeding for anyone.
Dane stood acros
