KATERINA'S POV
. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
As Nathaniel continued to talk, my internal struggle became harder and harder to bear. Every word he spoke about the wolves and his relentless pursuit only deepened my guilt and conflict. I couldn't continue to hide behind this facade of support any longer; I needed to reveal my true feelings.
As much as I wanted to spare Nathaniel from the truth, the weight of my emotions became too much to bear. I took a deep breath, trying to steady my trembling voice, and finally spoke up.
"Nathaniel," I began, my heart pounding in my chest, "I... I can't pretend anymore."
He looked at me with a puzzled expression, clearly taken aback by my sudden change in demeanor. "What do you mean, Katerina?"
"I mean... I can't support this hunt anymore," I confe
