The cheering still echoed in my ears, a hollow, mocking rhythm that sank deeper into my chest with every breath I took.
Tristan and Calista had just stood on that stage, basking in the joy of the pack as if nothing else in the world mattered.
His voice was so proud, his smile brighter than the moon when he announced her as his chosen mate. The crowd erupted, hands clapping, voices howling in celebration, but to me—it was all a curse.
I stood among them like a ghost, my heart breaking into pieces sharp enough to cut me from the inside. Tears pricked my eyes, but I refused to let them fall here, in front of all these people who had long decided my fate. I forced my gaze downward, gripping the small bag pressed to my chest. My lifeline. My freedom.
The guard’s voice suddenly pierced my
