A year passed, and in that time, I lost everything that meant anything to me. My brother disappeared, my ties to my old life crumbled, and I was left with nothing but emptiness. I wanted to leave, but Kaidon wouldn’t allow it. He said I had to wait until Elara returned. Then, and only then, could I go.
And now she was back. Elara had returned, the one who truly belonged here. I had paid back what I owed.
The night felt oppressive, the heat radiating from my feverish body like a furnace. I lay on the bed, tangled in damp sheets, my skin clammy and slick. The rogue bite on my shoulder throbbed, the infection raging beneath my skin, causing my wolf instincts to flare with discomfort. It was as if my wolf was restless, sensing my pain and wanting to break free. In my desperation, I picked up my phone, dialing Kaidon's number without thinking. My heart raced with the hope that he would answer, his strong presence soothing my fears.
When his voice came through, it was sharp and impatient, cutting through the haze of my fever. "Luna, why do you keep calling? You’re an adult. Handle your own problems."