The years have woven a tapestry of battles in my life, more than I could ever count—some noble, some foolish, but all leaving their mark. I've taken my share of blows, felt the sting of fists and claws, yet nothing has ever hit me like the words Estela just unleashed. It’s as if the air has been stolen from my lungs, as if I’ve forgotten how to breathe and might never remember. Her words, her radiant joy at the thought of leaving, twist in my gut like a blade.
I had hoped—no, I had prayed—that she’d feel relief, that the weight of danger lifting would bring a smile to her face. I wanted her to be happy, to glow with that fierce, untamed light I’ve always loved. But not like this. Not because it meant she could slip away from me, back to the Black Moon pack, as if our bond were nothing mor
