"As of today, Ofelia is labeled a rogue. She conspired with enemies to attack our pack. She abandoned her son. And should she ever return…" The Beta paused, his next words hanging in the air like a death sentence. "She will be executed on sight."
A stunned silence filled the ballroom. My breath caught in my throat.
This wasn’t just a way to keep me away—this was a permanent erasure of my existence. Gavin had just marked me as a traitor. Even if I stepped forward now, I wouldn’t survive.
Mavin’s face paled. His small hands clenched at his sides. "No," he whispered.
Then, without warning, he turned and bolted for the exit.
The guards moved instantly, ready to grab him.
I couldn't stay still any longer.
"Move," I snarled at Zach, shoving his arm away. Before he could stop me, my feet carried me forward, out of the shadows and into the light.
Gasps filled the room.
I felt the weight of a hundred eyes snap to me, their shock and confusion thick in the air. My chest heaved as I took another step forward, my gaze locked on Mavin.
His frantic movements stilled. He froze mid-step, his breath hitching as his small frame trembled.
Then his eyes met mine.
"Mommy?" His voice was so small, so fragile.