At the crimson gates of the Carmichael estate, Omega Reginald Carmichael waited with the entire household. When I stepped down from the carriage, frail as a leaf, my father's eyes welled up.
"My pup, you've suffered," he said, voice breaking.
I dropped to my knees on the stone steps, bowing deeply three times. "Your daughter's been unfilial, bringing shame to you."
"Nonsense!" Reginald pulled me to my feet, his beard trembling with anger. "It's the Morgan pack that's gone too far! Tomorrow, I'll petition—"
"Father," I interrupted, gently pressing his shaking hand. "I just want to live quietly now."
I turned, gazing at the familiar pavilions and gardens of the estate, feeling like a lifetime had passed. Three years ago, I left here in a blaze of glory for my binding ceremony, the whole
