Rejection

Nathan

When evening brought no change, I reluctantly departed after Vera promised to alert me immediately if needed.

My doubts about ruling alone without Father's wisdom threatened to overwhelm me as I hiked down the dim trail, but I forced them roughly aside. Self-pity helped nothing. I needed to be strong now for the pack's sake.

Nearing the estate's sprawling grounds, I hesitated at the crossroads before turning toward the Alpha's private residence on the far grounds rather than the main house.

The lavish space had always felt more mausoleum than home to me, empty and echoing. Now the cold marble walls would only magnify my desolation exponentially.

But stepping through the cozy residence's carved oaken door brought no relief. Jade's cloying floral perfume permeated the front rooms. She had clearly stopped here earlier. Yl

Yet never bothered coming to see me or Father. I slammed my fist against the wall, barely noticing the throbbing pain. Her callous disregard should not still hav