Chapter 7

Rhys opened his mouth but couldn’t say a word.

At last, he did not even have the strength to kneel. He collapsed to the ground with despair and regret, sobbing endlessly.

He tore at his own fur in madness, ripping it out until he bled, yet he seemed numb to the pain.

I had nothing more to say to him. Just as I turned to leave, I heard his stubborn voice behind me. “It doesn’t matter if you forgive me or not, Irene. You’re my only family.

“No matter what, I will always stand by your side. Even if it costs me my life, I will protect you.”

His tone was firm, just like when he once swore to protect Leah.

I didn’t care anymore.

I was busy attending my best friend’s marking ceremony.

When everyone else was encouraged by Leah to bully me, she was the only one who reached out to help me.

Over the past few days, I had picked up scattered bits of news about Leah’s family from the pack.

My father had only married my mother to latch onto her family’s wealth.

Once my grandparents passed, leaving the inheritance to my mother, his true nature showed. He manipulated, isolated, and controlled her until she had no will left to fight. And when she was gone, he cast me aside like a burden he no longer needed.

Leah was my only source of warmth in those days. She reminded me that I was not invisible, not unworthy of kindness.

Now, standing beside her as she was embraced by her true mate, I felt a quiet satisfaction. She had carved a place for herself, despite everything.

The ceremony carried on, filled with laughter and the scent of blooming flowers, but I remained at the edge of it all, watching, listening. I didn’t step forward to join the celebration. I wasn’t sure I knew how.

The night air was crisp as I exhaled slowly. There was still more to be done, more battles to fight. My story was far from over.