**Mira's POV — Monday, 8:45 AM**
The family courtroom was packed.
Pack elders on one side. Mira's supporters on the other. Kieran sat in the middle—neutral territory.
The judge entered. Elder Darius stood immediately.
"Your Honor, we're here because Dr. Whitmore's choices endanger her daughter. A romantic relationship with a Council member while still legally mated creates confusion and instability—"
"Objection." Mira's lawyer rose. "Dr. Whitmore is separated with divorce proceedings underway. She's entitled to pursue relationships."
"The mate bond still exists!" Darius slammed his hand on the table. "That bond makes her pack property—"
"I'm not property." Mira stood, voice shaking with fury. "I'm a person. A mother. And I have the right to choose my own life."
Th
