Damon froze, his anger shifting to confusion as he stared at me. After a moment, he sighed and ran a hand through his hair, his tone softening.
“Elara, are you okay? I know I overreacted just now, but seriously, why would you burn everything? Those were memories. Weren’t we saving all of that for our mating ceremony? Why didn’t you wait for me to come back or at least message me? I could’ve handled it.”
I didn’t even look at him. This wasn’t the same Damon I used to trust, the one who swore he’d protect me no matter what.
“You’re always so busy,” I said casually. “Figured you wouldn’t want me bothering you over something so small.”
He stepped closer, his eyes flicking between the dying flames and me. “Small? Elara, that box held everything—our memories, our bond. Why are you acting like none of it matters?”
Bond? Pff. I shrugged, my face unreadable. “Because it doesn’t anymore.”
His shoulders slumped as he stood beside me, watching the ashes scatter in the night breeze. The scene was painfully ironic—he was the one who’d wrecked our bond, yet here he was, acting like he still cared.
I turned to head back toward the packhouse, but Damon reached out and pulled me into his arms. His familiar cologne overwhelmed me, making me sneeze. He didn’t let go, though, holding me tighter like he was desperate to fix everything with a single hug.
“Are you sick?” he asked softly, his voice filled with concern. “I’m sorry, Elara. I know I’ve been distant lately. Let me make it up to you. We can start over—build new memories, even better ones.”
If this had been months ago, I might’ve melted at his words. But after everything—after watching him prioritize Serena and her needs over me—I couldn’t pretend anymore.
When he finally let go, I stepped back, putting space between us. My voice was calm, but firm.
“No need to apologize, Damon. If you want to make it up to me, throw me a proper anniversary party. You’ve missed every single one since we’ve been together, so I’d like at least one before I leave.”
Surprise flashed across his face, but he quickly nodded. “Of course. Whatever you want.”
Before he could say more, his phone buzzed. Glancing at the screen, his expression shifted, guilt flickering in his eyes.
“It’s urgent,” he muttered. “Pack business. Don’t wait up—I’ll take care of everything tomorrow, I promise.”