On the other side of the Black Shadow Pack, Alaric stood frozen for several seconds after his ex-wife hung up on him.
She was so ruthless, so cold, a stark contrast to the woman who, just a few years ago, would throw herself at his feet, begging him not to divorce her. How could she be the same person? The same woman who, before their separation, shed sincere tears, clinging to him, hoping to repair their relationship shattered by unspoken words and betrayals? He knew her so well. Every movement, every gesture, every smile spoke volumes beyond what she showed. But now, this was a side of her he didn't recognize.
Over the years, the pack he was born into had shaped him with a deep understanding of power games and the subtleties of familial bonds. But with Lyra, it was different. Was
