20 Altercation part 2

Emily,

Overwhelmed by a lingering sense of humiliation, I kept my gaze fixed on the ground, too afraid to look up. The atmosphere around me felt suffocatingly judgmental, draining away whatever small traces of joy I had managed to store. I felt hollow and devoid of ideas, with no excuse or justification for my actions. My silence had been a sacrifice to ensure my people had a home, free from the burdens of Jake's mistakes. If Kane was willing to offer them that sanctuary, then it would make it all worthwhile.

"If you'll allow me, I would like to be excused. I will inform David, Luis, and Claus to gather their belongings, and I will do the same. We will leave immediately. I sincerely apologise for keeping this from all of you, and I hope it won't affect the integration of my people when the full moon comes. You can inform the alphas of our return to the Howler's settlement," I murmured, still keeping my head bowed. The tears had ceased, replaced by weariness and resignation. I was exh