The moment I exited the group, Caleb called. It was an Alpha command call—impossible to ignore.

"Ivy, come here immediately."

"Where?"

"You know where. The Pack House."

"Why?"

"Apologize to Lila."

"Why should I apologize?"

"You quitting the group just now was a public provocation. Do you know what other families will think of her?"

Caleb's tone was hard, carrying the dominance typical of an Alpha.

"I don't want people slandering her."

"My wolf chose her. I need to give her status."

"She is innocent. She shouldn't bear the label of a homewrecker just because of your recklessness."

Even though I thought I was numb to his actions, the phantom pain of rejection spread through my chest.

My fingers trembled as I gripped the phone. My claws threatened to extend and pierce my palm.

When I spoke, my voice shook. "Caleb, you can't use your Alpha privilege to bully me like this."

"What gives you the right?"

"You betrayed our fated bond first. I felt your rejection. I did nothing. I even congratulated you. Isn't that enough?"

I fought back the tears. I refused to show weakness.

But my voice cracked.

There was silence on the other end. It seemed his wolf felt uneasy for a split second.

"Ivy."

"I won't punish your disrespect this time."

"But remember, Lila is innocent."

"Don't take your anger out on her. Don't hurt her."

The call ended.

I sat on the carpet, shaking.

On the nightstand sat a photo of my mother. She was looking at me with gentle, loving eyes. She was a respected high-ranking Healer in her time.

Tears burst forth. I lunged forward and hugged the frame tight.

Through the cold glass, I pressed my cheek against hers.

My tears fell endlessly. The mother in the photo seemed to be grieving for her daughter.

I didn't want to cry anymore. I didn't want my mother, who had returned to the Moon Goddess's embrace, to worry.

Once the anniversary of my mother's death passed...

I would take the moonstone necklace she left me.

I would leave the Silver Moon territory forever. I would be a free Rogue, or become the Luna of another Pack.