Chapter 53
“Dad,” I murmured softly, my voice barely above a whisper. “I’ve found someone—a doctor—who might be able to wake you up. But…” My throat tightened, and I hesitated before continuing. “I have to leave the territory. I don’t know if I’ll ever be able to come back.”
My thumb moved gently in slow circles over the back of his hand, trying to offer some comfort in the heavy silence that hung between us.
“If I stay here, we’re both doomed. But if I go, at least there’s a chance you can get better.” The lump in my throat made it hard to speak the last words. “I have to try.”
I remained by his side until a nurse came in to check his vitals, her presence a small reminder of the sterile hospital world around us. Reluctantly, I stood and left the room, my heart pounding as I made my way back toward the parking lot. That familiar prickling sensation crawled up my spine again—I was definitely being followed.
Without a second thought, I slipped into a nearby coffee shop—a small, bustling place filled with the rich aroma of freshly brewed espresso and the sweet scent of pastries. The chatter of afternoon customers surrounded me as I joined the line, pretending to study the menu, all the while keeping a sharp eye on the entrance.
“Luna.”
The voice behind me made me jump. Marcus, one of Rocco’s bodyguards, stood there with a smile that didn’t quite reach his cold eyes.
“Marcus,” I said, trying to keep my voice steady despite my racing heart. “Just here for coffee?”
“Same as you.” His gaze was unwavering. “Alpha’s been quite concerned about your… frequent visits to Dr. Bennett.”
My mouth suddenly felt dry, as if all the moisture had vanished. “I’m allowed to see my friend.”
“Of course,” Marcus replied smoothly, stepping a little closer and lowering his voice. “Alpha just wants to make sure you’re receiving the best care possible. He’s very… attentive when it comes to that.”
I forced myself to push past him, abandoning my place in line. “Tell your Alpha I appreciate his concern, but my medical decisions are no longer his business.”
His finger traced the path slowly. “We’ll move your father during the full moon ceremony. Security will be lighter because most of the wolves will be attending the event. I’ve arranged for an ambulance to be waiting at the rear entrance.”
Taking my hand in his, Lucas looked at me with steady seriousness. “Kira, I’m coming with you. Everything’s been arranged.”
I squeezed his hand tightly, overwhelmed by gratitude I couldn’t put into words.
Later, alone in my apartment, I stood by the window one last time. The moon hung low and nearly full, its silver light casting a soft glow over the quiet city. In just two days, it would reach its peak, and Rocco would publicly announce Kim as his Luna.
Memories flooded me—the first time I met Rocco, the burning intensity in his eyes when he marked me, the rare moments of tenderness before bitterness and hatred took over. “That Rocco is gone,” I whispered to the night. “All that remains is revenge.”
Closing my suitcase with a finality that echoed in my chest, I prepared to leave before dawn. There was no turning back now.

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