They slid down my face and hit the linen sheets without sound. My wolf stirred, barely, like something shifting in deep water. Then went still again.
Some things are simply cruel.
But I was grateful, at least, that I'd found out before it was too late. I could still walk away.
The day I was discharged, a young healer helped me gather my things.
"Ms. Silvercrest, how come no one's visited you these past few days? Are you sure you'll be okay returning to the den alone?"
"I'm fine. Thank you all for taking care of me. I'm feeling much better."
I managed a smile and walked out of the room. My body ached in places I couldn't name. My wolf moved with me like a shadow that had lost its shape, present but formless, refusing to settle.
I hadn't gone more than a few steps when I heard the healers whispering behind me.
"Poor thing. A lost pup, and not a single soul by her side. Where's her mate?"
"She said she doesn't have one. Probably lost him. A broken bond, maybe. Life really isn't fair, is it? You know the she-wolf in the next chamber? Her mate adores her. He's at her bedside every single day, holding the pup. You can tell he's absolutely smitten."