Chapter 4

Recently, the change in my behavior was obvious. Where I used to argue, question, or flash a smirk whenever Kade gave an order, I now simply nodded.

When he commanded me to attend a border patrol review—a task I would have normally jumped at the chance to argue about, snapping, 'Is this really a job for an Omega?'—I just looked at a point somewhere past his shoulder and said, “Yes, Alpha.” No eye roll, no sarcastic comment.

Kade noticed. I saw his brows draw together slightly as I turned to leave without another word. Later that day, I overheard him talking to his Beta near the training grounds. “She's become much more obedient lately,” he remarked. “It doesn't even feel like her anymore.” “Is that a bad thing?” the Beta replied. “Haven't you always wanted her to be more...settled?”

Fine. I was written off as "settled".

In my room, cluttered with possessions I once cherished, many of them gifts Kade had ordered for my quarters, I pulled a simple, sturdy bag I’d woven myself from under my bed, and began to pack my things.

I only took my mother’s wolf-tooth necklace, a few practical sets of clothing, a small pouch of silver coins I’d saved over the years. And of course, the speaking stone and the black credit chip from the South.

And I left everything else. The glittering jewels, the silken gowns, the exquisite custom timepiece—all of it went into a large wooden box. I picked up a particularly garish diamond necklace he’d given me during what I thought was the height of our passion. I could still remember the joy I felt receiving it. Now, it felt more like a payment than an expression of affection.

My wolf, Catherine, surfaced in my mind. "You're taking so little? You used to sleep with that diamond necklace!"

"You grow up and realize what truly matters doesn't take up much space," I replied coolly. "He can give this to his next favorite plaything." I dropped it into the box with the rest of the discarded items without a second glance.

A few days later, I volunteered for the kitchen’s supply run into the nearby town, which gave me a few precious hours of freedom. My basket was soon filled with herbs and roots, a perfect cover.

As I walked through the market streets, my eyes weren't on the stalls but on the best routes leading out of the territory and toward the northern border.

After walking for what felt like ages, I found a secret spot near the designated border area. Then I pulled the speaking stone from my pocket.

“The plan stands,” I said to the stone. “But I need a new condition. A private jet, waiting at the designated spot. On the northern border, due east of the Blackwater Creek, there’s a large, lightning-struck oak tree. Your pilot won’t be able to miss it.”

A deep, gravelly voice echoed back almost immediately. “Consider it done, your highness. All is prepared for your arrival. We are waiting for our Luna.” The title "Luna" used to make my heart flutter with a foolish hope. Now, it just felt like a job description. A better one than "convenient bedmate".

“See that you do,” I replied, cutting the connection immediately. This was a deal, not a reunion.

Back in my room at Frostfang, I went to the small calendar hidden in my drawer. I took a pen and crossed out another day. Five days. No anxiety. No second thoughts.

Perhaps my recent absences were noticeable; Kade often couldn't find me in my usual place. I used to make sure I was constantly seen by kade. That evening, Kade stopped me in the hallway outside his war room. He studied me for a moment. “What have you been busy with lately? I barely see you around.”

“I heard the kitchen was short-handed, so I've been helping out,” I answered smoothly, the lie ready on my lips.

“I didn't know you had an interest in kitchen work. You used to pride yourself on never getting your hands dirty.”

“People change,” I said, holding his gaze steadily.

Kade seemed to find nothing unusual in my answer. After a moment, he said, “There’s a gathering tomorrow night at the Silverwood Estate,” he stated. “The usual important figures. You haven't been to a party in a while. It might be good for you to go. Be ready by seven.”

In the past, I would have lit up at this. A chance to dress up, to be seen on his arm, to play the part I so desperately wanted. Now, I just met his gaze, my expression utterly flat.

“Of course, Alpha,” I said, my voice a agreeable tone. “I will have everything prepared precisely as you require.”

A strand of confusion passed behind his eyes. This wasn’t my pattern. Something about my answer felt off to him. He frowned, but unable to figure out what was wrong, finally just gave a short nod before walking away.

Perfect, I thought. Let him wonder. I turned and walked back to my room. I’d have everything prepared. I was going to give him a final performance he would never forget.