Chapter 5

I looked at him quietly.Seven years of love meant nothing compared to a single grievance from his"fated mate."

He actually believed I should apologize

to the woman who ruined my bonding ceremony.

"Alright."

I stood up and walked over to Elara.

Elara jumped,instinctively stepping back.

"S-Selene,you don't have to do this.I don't need an apology..."

"I'm sorry."

I looked directly into her eyes,my tone completely void of emotion.

Elara froze.

Kyle did,too.

He clearly hadn't expected me to be so compliant.

A flash of surprise crossed his expression,quickly replaced by a satisfied smile.

"I knew it.You've always been so understanding,Selene."

He reached out to pull me into a half-hug,but I sidestepped."I need to go to the Alliance Trade Council.I'm leaving."

I picked up the suitcase I had left by the entryway.

Kyle stared at the silver suitcase,his brow furrowing again.

"Why do you need luggage for the Council?"

"There's a cross-territory trade project.I need to travel,"I lied casually.

"For how many days?Why haven't you mentioned this to me?"

Displeasure crept into his voice.

"Probably...a long time."

I pushed the front door open.

"Alright,well,be safe out there."

Kyle didn't press the matter.He had already turned away to pour Elara a glass of water.

"Here,Elara.The water is warm.Drink some."

His gentle voice drifted through the crack in the door.

Without looking back,I closed it quietly behind me.

I took one last look at the home I'd lived in for five years.

Dragging my suitcase behind me,I walked right out of the pack's territory.