Chapter 6

After two months of blessed peace, I returned to the Blackwood Lodge.

Opening the door, I found the entire family still squatting in my home.

Harley rushed to me. “Liana! You have returned! Was your journey difficult? Are you hungry? I could prepare some fresh meat?”

Her sudden warmth made my skin crawl. “There is no need, Elder.”

“What are you calling me? I am your Harley!”

“Edwards and I are severing our bond. Elder is the appropriate title.”

Harley shot a desperate look at Edwards, who reluctantly came forward.

“Liana, stop this foolishness. See how Harley cares for you? Why would you throw away a good life in the pack?”

“Weren’t you the one who demanded severance? Saying whoever backed down was a coward? Have you signed the ritual documents?”

Edwards pressed his lips into a thin line, then took my hand. “Enough. You canceled our reservations, you destroyed our clothes—I have forgiven you for all of it. Let us never speak of severance again. See how good I am to you?”