Early in the morning, I stepped out of the healing tent. Dew still clung to the pine needles.
“Hey, Thalia!” A sharp, sugar-coated voice called from behind.
I took a deep breath, locked every emotion inside, and turned around.
Bianca.
She was dressed up today. Curled hair, polished boots—the limited edition ones. She liked proving she was the future “Luna,” even before the mark was official.
“What is it?” My voice was cold. “Or are you here to ask for help with pre-mating fertility tonics?”
She blinked innocently. “Oh, don’t be like that. I thought maybe we could be friends. Or... sisters-in-law? Alpha Fernando always said you’re like a sister to him.”
I smiled, barely.
“How’s the bonding ceremony going?” I asked. Like I was asking if she’d eaten breakfast.
She paused, then lifted
