7
+15 BONUS
The Blood Moon Pack’s territory stretched across three states, dwarfing the Storm Shadow Pack’s modest lands.
Watching from Emma’s car, I understood why William and Katherine had always feared Alexander.
“Their entire pack could fit in our hunting grounds alone,” Emma explained as we drove. “They need our resources to survive –
timber, prey, trading routes.”
“Welcome home, sister,” Alexander said warmly.
“Your new home,” Emma said softly, leading me to a sprawling stone house with a private garden. “Alexander made sure it has
everything you need.”
The pack’s top healer visited daily, trying to mend the wounds silver had left on my soul.
My closet filled with dresses I’d never wear, gems that couldn’t replace what I’d lost.
The first morning, I found Ryan kneeling outside my gate, clutching white roses.
“Celeste, please,” he begged, his voice cracking. “I swear I didn’t know what my mother planned. Sarah told me Marcus was safe,
training with private tutors. My mother said you were fine.”
His words echoed across the lawn.
“When I got back and saw the silver marks on his neck…” He choked. “I would have died to save him. I should have died instead o
him.”
Alexander’s warriors transformed instantly, their massive forms surrounding my former mate.
“I deserve your hate,” Ryan continued, even as the wolves circled closer. “But Marcus didn’t deserve to die for my weakness. I’ll
spend my life making it right-”
“Get him out,” I told them flatly.
They were gentle enough not to kill him. Just enough teeth and claws to send a message.
The next day, a servant brought me a ring. Ancient purple healing crystals set in white gold – Ryan’s most precious possession.
“He says it’s yours,” the servant murmured. “The Beta says it’s worth ten million dollars. He hopes it shows his regret.”
I studied the ring that could have bought Marcus’s freedom. Could have saved his life.
“Auction it,” I said, turning away. “Give the money to the pack’s orphaned pups.”
“What do you want to do now?” Emma asked after lunch, her hand finding mine. “Alexander and I will support whatever you
