The Necklace They Gave Me Last

When I put my phone down, everyone was already gone. I wasn't surprised. I followed the familiar path back to the house.

I'm the only reserve warrior in this family—and the only one without a necklace.

But this wasn't the first time.

In college, it was my fated mate Garrett who drove me to school. He made me my very first wolf-fang weapon.

Until three years ago, when he first met Mia. Bit by bit, his attention went to her. It felt like I was no longer the only one in his eyes.

That night, Mom prepared a huge feast to celebrate the move and Legacy Day.

The long table was covered with beautiful dishes—every single one was Mia's favorite.

In the center sat the berry pudding. And I'm allergic to berries.

I quietly stood up, ready to leave the table.

Mom chased after me, frowning.

"Lena, where are you going? Everyone's eating. Are you still upset about this morning?"

I shook my head.

"I can't eat. I'm allergic to berries."

I looked at her calmly.

Her expression froze. We stood locked in a standoff by the table.

Behind us, my brother Leon overheard and waved his hand impatiently.

"Only one dish has berries. There's grilled fish right there. Lena, why can't you just say what you want ahead of time?"

Garrett gave an awkward smile. He slid up next to me, wrapped an arm around me, and coaxed me in a low, gentle voice.

"Come on, sweetheart. Don't make a scene. After the party, I'll take you out to eat. You want that steak place in the gathering district?"

That restaurant was far—an hour and a half drive.

I shook my head.

"It's fine. I'll just have some sourdough—"

Leon cut me off.

"Garrett, you keep spoiling her like this, you're gonna ruin her. Today is our family gathering. Whatever western steak can wait."

Mia's eyes welled up. She put down her fork.

"I'm sorry, Lena. It's all my fault. I forgot—"

Garrett looked at Mia's tears, his eyes full of ache. He wiped them for her and didn't mention the restaurant again. There was no malice in that scene—but it cut deeper than any accusation.

Because they genuinely believed ignoring me was only natural.

I didn't acknowledge Mia's apology. I turned, pushed open the door, and walked straight into the yard.

My phone rang. It was the Silver Creek pack.

"Miss Lena, based on your outstanding grades and battle record at the werewolf academy, we didn't have much hope when we first sent you the invitation."

"Receiving your confirmation genuinely surprised us. Just to be safe, we'd like to confirm your decision one more time. We'd be honored to have you choose our pack after graduation. We know it's a lot to ask—a wolf as talented as you, surely your family would beg you to stay."

I stood in the bitter wind and glanced back. Through the long narrow hallway, I could see a corner of the living room: Mia surrounded by everyone, all of them happily enjoying dinner.

I smiled.

"There's always an exception."

On my phone screen, the confidentiality agreement's signing countdown was ticking. Three days until I report to the border base of the neighboring pack. In two days, I'll vanish from this family completely.

It'll probably be a long, long time before they even notice I'm gone.