When I left the infirmary I found a mirror first. I fixed my face with steady hands, layering concealment over the wreckage until not a single trace showed. Only then did I return to the Nightfang ancestral Keep.
This time I did not do what I had always done. I did not lock myself in our room, clutching his photograph, weeping into the dark. Instead I walked straight to the study, and I knelt before the old Alpha patriarch.
"Grandfather Magnus. I've made my decision."
"I am letting go of Sylvia Nightfang. I am leaving the Nightfang Pack."
Ever since Sylvia Nightfang had "died," I had been the one suffering the most. Even Old Master Magnus, who was equally submerged in grief, had thought of me first. He came to persuade me. He said I was still young, that life was still long, and that I shouldn't remain trapped in this bond. He hoped I would leave the Nightfang Pack and start over, find someone who truly cherished me.
I knew he meant well, but back then I refused without a second thought. I couldn't bear to let go of Sylvia Nightfang, couldn't bear to leave this den still saturated with his scent. I had already resolved to守 keep vigil for him for the rest of my life.
But now I realized that from the very beginning, his closeness had been a lie. These five years, seemingly warm and tender, had held not a shred of sincerity. Every moment had been a carefully constructed deception.
I had no reason to stay any longer.
Old Master Magnus knew nothing of the truth behind it all. When he saw me finally relent, relief washed over his aged face. He hurried to help me to my feet, his eyes glistening with unshed tears.
"Hazel, you've finally come around. You're a good pup. Grandfather has always cared for you. He's gone, but those of us still living have to carry on."
He paused, then let out a long sigh. "I'll have half the Nightfang Pack's holdings transferred to your name. It will be more than enough for you to live comfortably. Child, leave this place. Don't come back. Forget Sylvia, and live well."
My eyes burned. I held it in for a long time before I managed to keep the tears from falling.
My parents never loved me. In their eyes, there was only Hazel Ashford. My intended mate never loved me either, his heart belonging only to her. Even Sylvia Nightfang, the one I believed cared for me most, had kept her in his heart all along.