I Left Before He Learned My Worth novel Chapter 34

**TITLE: I Left Before He Learned My Worth**

**Chapter 34**

**ARIA**

The sun hung low in the sky, casting a warm glow as I stood there, my heart racing slightly. When she extended her hand toward me, I took it cautiously, feeling the firmness of her grip. It was strong, yet there was a distinct coolness to it, as if she were holding back some hidden warmth. Her smile was flawless—inviting, friendly, radiating the kind of charm that could easily disarm anyone. But her eyes, oh, her eyes were another story entirely. They scrutinized me with a detached precision, appraising me, weighing my worth, and ultimately finding me lacking.

That look was all too familiar; I had seen it countless times from Sera, each time a reminder of my own inadequacies.

“The honor is truly mine,” I replied, striving for a tone that conveyed neutrality. “Nina has spoken very highly of you. I understand you’ve been busy gathering herbs?”

“Among other things,” Ivory replied, her voice smooth as silk as she gestured toward the bags slung over her shoulder. “In fact, I brought back quite an impressive haul. Some rare specimens that should be quite beneficial for various needs of the pack. Including—” she paused dramatically, pulling out a carefully wrapped bundle, “moonbeam plants. Fresh, properly harvested ones. I heard our Alpha had a little mishap with some that were picked incorrectly.”

The air thickened with unspoken implications, a tension that was subtle yet palpable. She had accomplished what I had failed to do—gathered moonbeam plants correctly, without risking the lives of our pack members during a nightwalker attack.

“That’s truly wonderful,” I replied, resolutely ignoring the bait she dangled before me. “I’m sure Eliza will be thrilled to hear about this. The plants have been quite beneficial for Kael.”

“Yes, well, I know precisely how to prepare them for maximum efficacy,” Ivory stated, her smile maintaining that same pleasant façade that never quite reached her eyes. “Studying healing herbs has become somewhat of a specialty for me.”

Of course it had. Of course this stunning, well-respected, and skilled omega possessed talents that I lacked, insights I didn’t have, and a history with the pack that I could never hope to replicate.

“Ivory is one of our best herb gatherers,” Nina chimed in, seemingly oblivious to the tension that crackled between us. “She’s traveled extensively, learning from some of the finest healers in the territories. Having her back is truly a blessing.”

“I’m sure,” I murmured, my gaze drifting to where other pack members were flocking around Ivory, welcoming her with genuine warmth and affection.

It was at that moment that I felt Kael’s presence through our bond—a wave of joy and recognition that sent a jolt through my stomach. I turned to see him stepping out of the forest, his massive wolf form moving with a vigor I hadn’t seen in days.

The implication was unmistakable: I had acted recklessly, while she would have handled the situation with competence. I had put myself in unnecessary danger, while she had the skills to manage such incidents with ease.

I felt my wolf bristle with irritation, but I maintained a neutral expression. Allowing defensiveness to surface would only serve to expose my insecurities.

*“Aria,”* Kael said, his mental voice warm as he included me in the link. *“I’m really glad you came down to meet Ivory. I was hoping you two would get along. She’s been part of this pack since we were children. One of the few who stood by my side when the curse first took hold.”*

Of course she had. Of course Ivory was loyal, devoted, everything a pack member should aspire to be.

*“I’ll do my best,”* I promised, and I meant it. Despite my personal discomfort, it was clear that Ivory mattered to Kael and to the pack. Building a rapport with her was part of my duty as the future Luna. *“She seems incredibly knowledgeable about herbs and healing. That’s a valuable asset.”*

*“She is,”* Kael agreed. *“And she’s kind, once you get to know her. I think you two could actually become friends. Both omegas who’ve proven yourselves through action rather than birthright. You have more in common than you might think.”*

I highly doubted that Ivory wanted to be my friend, but I kept that thought carefully tucked away from the bond, not wanting to voice my doubts aloud.