Before I Learned to Let Go

Chapter 2: THE FOREST OF SHADOWS

The snow crunched under my boots, a rhythmic sound that felt like a ticking clock. I had exactly six hours before the sun rose, and with it, my protection as a pack member would vanish. Once the sun hit the horizon, I would be a rogue—fair game for any hunter or predator patrolling the borders.

I clutched my thin jacket closer to my chest, my hand instinctively resting over my stomach. "We’re going to be okay," I whispered to the tiny life inside me. "I promise."

The forest was eerily quiet until a low growl vibrated through the trees. My heart leaped into my throat. I wasn't alone.

A pair of glowing amber eyes emerged from the shadows. It wasn't Jaxon, but his Beta, Marcus. He was the only one who had ever shown me a shred of kindness in the Silver Moon pack.

"Diana, stop," he commanded, his voice soft but firm.

"He told me to leave, Marcus. I'm just following orders," I said, my voice trembling despite my attempt at strength.

Marcus stepped into the moonlight, his expression pained. "The borders are crawling with guards loyal to Jaxon’s father. They won't just let you walk away. Take this." He handed me a small, heavy leather pouch. "It contains enough cash and a fake ID to get you to the city. Don't look back, Diana. If you stay, they will break what's left of you."

I took the pouch, my eyes blurring with tears. "Why are you helping me?"

"Because," Marcus sighed, "Jaxon is a fool. He doesn't realize he just threw away the only heart in this pack worth saving."

I didn't wait for him to change his mind. I ran. I ran until my lungs burned and the scent of the Silver Moon pack faded into the distance. I was alone, pregnant, and hunted—but for the first time in my life, I was free.

I’m