(Audrey’s POV)
The morning sunlight streamed through my curtains, painting golden patterns across my living room floor. Arthur carefully folded the blanket he’d used on my couch, his movements precise and methodical as always. I watched him from the kitchen doorway, clutching my mug of tea.
“I have to go,” he said, reaching for his jacket. “Alpha Council meeting this morning.”
I nodded, gathering my courage. “Before you leave, can we discuss our mate bond severance? After what happened yesterday-“
“Not now, Audrey,” he cut me off, shrugging into his jacket with practiced ease. “The council is expecting me.”
Before I could press further, he was at the door, his hand already on the knob. “I’ll call you later.”
The door closed behind him with a soft click, leaving me standing alone in my kitchen, words unsaid hanging heavy in the air. His abrupt departure felt calculated-another way to avoid discussing our relationship.
My phone buzzed on the counter. Sarah’s name flashed across the screen.
“Hey,” I answered, pushing thoughts of Arthur aside.
“Good news!” Sarah’s excitement vibrated through the line. “I found an amazing office space for our healing practice! The owner agreed to meet us today at 10. Can you make it?”
I glanced at the clock. Just past eight. “Perfect timing. Text me the address.”
“Already did,” she replied. “It’s at the junction between Moonstone and Shadowcrest territories. Prime location for attracting clients from multiple packs.”
After ending the call, I quickly dressed in my most professional outfit-a simple emerald blouse that matched my eyes and black slacks. I clasped the wolf pendant around my neck, drawing comfort from its weight against my skin.
Sarah picked me up an hour later, practically bouncing with excitement.
“You should see this place,” she gushed as we drove. “High ceilings, modern fixtures, separate rooms for consultations. It’s perfect.”
We arrived at an upscale office building, its glass facade gleaming in the morning sun. The location was indeed ideal-neutral enough for wolves from different packs to feel comfortable visiting.
“I’ll park the car,” Sarah said, dropping me at the entrance. “The owner said to ask for them at reception.”
I nodded, stepping into the sleek lobby. The receptionist directed me to the third floor, where the available office space was located.
As the elevator doors opened, I froze. Standing in the hallway, impeccably dressed in a designer suit, was Mrs. Shadowcrest-Emma’s mother.
Her eyes narrowed when she spotted me, her wolf presence instantly becoming cold and hostile.
“Luna Moonstone,” she said, her voice dripping with false politeness. “What a surprise to find you here.”
My heart sank as realization dawned. This was no coincidence. “You’re the owner of the office space.”
Her lips curved into a smile that didn’t reach her eyes. “One of many properties the Shadowcrest Pack owns in this territory. Please, follow me.”
She led me into a private meeting room, closing the door firmly behind us. The moment we were alone, her facade dropped completely.
“You have quite the nerve,” she said, all pretense of civility evaporating. “Playing the victim yesterday, then meeting with property agents today as if nothing happened.”
I stiffened. “I don’t know what you mean.”
“Don’t play innocent with me,” Mrs. Shadowcrest spat, her wolf eyes flashing dangerously. “One moment you’re claiming to want a mate bond severance, the next you’re manipulating Arthur into canceling important pack business to rescue you from your own indiscretions.”
The accusation made my blood boil. “Is that what Emma told you? That I staged yesterday’s attack?”
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