Astra’s POV
Kieran exhaled sharply, though his gaze stayed cold as steel.
“My bond with Isla was earned with blood and claw—every scar carved into the ice of the Frostfang Mountains. If the Elders really took it back because of you, it would spit on every warrior’s sacrifice.”
His voice dripped with accusation.
“But of course, the Elders summoned me today only to vanish before I could see them. Guess it makes sense now—you went behind my back, whining about how unfair I’ve been.”
His eyes narrowed with contempt.
“Astra, you’re pitiful. And pathetic. I’ve been more than generous to you. When Isla and I complete our bond, I’ll still let you carry my pup. You’ll always have a place in Pack Zane.”
The words cut sharper than claws, each syllable dipped in venom.
I didn’t even bother arguing. “Noted. You can go now.”
For a moment, his face twisted with fresh rage, like he was about to lash out. But then something in him snagged—like the fight suddenly drained out of him. With a final, low growl, he turned and stormed out.
The door slammed.
Bekkie rushed in instantly, her small hands gripping my arm so tightly her fingers trembled. Tears streaked her cheeks.
“Are you okay?” I asked softly.
“I just… I can’t stand how he talks to you! Doesn’t it make you feel… humiliated?” Her voice cracked.
I brushed her tears away. “Of course it does. But crying’s useless, Bekkie. Better to start thinking about how we’re going to make life better for ourselves. I’m from Pack Hale—we don’t break this easily.”
She sniffed, wiping her nose. “Why does everyone think they can walk all over you? You’re good to everyone.”
I smiled faintly. “Because to them, I’m not important anymore. What matters to them is the title I carry… and the gold I brought with me.”
Bekkie's tears fell harder. To her, I was the most important person in the world.
“Enough,” I said, giving her cheek a playful flick. “Go on. We still have a life to live.”
“But… what about the people who came with you when you married in?” she asked hesitantly. “Should we call them back?”
I nodded, my gaze sharpening. “Their loyalty contracts are still in my hands. Isla won’t tolerate any power she can’t control.”
I thought of the thirty people who’d followed me a year ago—skilled blacksmiths, brilliant herbalists.
The room flap rustled, and Dr. Danelle stepped inside—broad-shouldered, with a simple leather satchel strapped across her back. Her scent carried the cool tang of crushed herbs.
She took Lady Mora’s pulse, her brow furrowing deeper the longer she sat there. When Doctor Danelle finished scribbling the prescription, I stepped forward.
“Doctor Danelle, let me walk you out.”
She gave me a quick, knowing look and nodded.
Outside, her steps slowed, and her voice dropped to a low growl.
“I’m not treating that old she-wolf again,” she said, her golden eyes flashing with disdain. “That family’s rotten. They don’t deserve your kindness. Don’t send for me anymore—I won’t come.”
I didn’t flinch. “Understood. I was planning on break the bond anyway.”
That made she turn fully toward me. Then, her expression softened into a proud smile. She clapped a heavy hand on my shoulder.
“That’s the daughter of Alpha Hale I remember. No more taking their scraps.”
She snorted. “I never needed their money. The only reason I treated her this long was because of you. But she’s as greedy as they come—and I’ve seen enough.”

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