(Alex’s POV) I was sitting by the balcony doors, gazing out at the setting sun as the forest began to darken. I couldn’t help but think about the fact that it was very much like my life, which seems to also be in the twilight of my days. I was thinking about what my Dad told me earlier. About my rank. I won’t say I don’t care about losing my rank, but it’s better that than my mate. Max? Will you be alright? I was worried about him. He hadn’t spoken at all since my Dad began to lay it all out to me. I’m fine, Lex. I think we both agree we're better off losing our rank than our mate. I’m not saying I like it, but I’ll learn to live with it. To his credit, he sounded like he was already resolved to his fate. Me? Well, the jury is still out, but I'm not going to fight this either. Yeah, I

