I handed over my personal card after he had blocked my access, the money from my own hard work. Years of reliance on his alpha provisioning had left me vulnerable—but now, I realized how strong I could be on my own.
Bandaged and resolute, I returned to the manor, determined to avoid Lorenz and Emily, who would spend the night at the hospital. Staff glanced at my arm with concern, but I waved them off. “It’s minor. Don’t worry, and I apologize for the late hour.”
The next morning, a soft chime announced the acceptance email from the Italian Arts Academy. My heart raced with excitement and hunger for independence. I grabbed my art supplies, declining the driver’s offer for a ride. Freedom was intoxicating.
Hours passed in the RISD Museum, surrounded by art that had once ignited my soul. Brush in hand, I felt the weight of Lorenz’s alpha presence lift from my shoulders. For the first time, I created freely, my wolf instincts attuned only to the canvas before me.
Night fell unnoticed until the phone rang. Lorenz.
I answered, tone clipped and sharp. “What is it?”
“Where are you?” His voice was low, dangerous, controlled—alpha frustration radiating. “I expected you home.”