It's been a couple of weeks since Willow and I made our silent exit from Blackthorne land. Hunter might've expected us to remain in the luxury of the villa, but pride and determination wouldn’t allow it. We aren’t someone's discarded toys, left to gather dust.

With each dawn, I wonder if Hunter will come for us. His reach is vast, after all. Yet, the days pass without an incident. His silence is both a relief and an unnerving mystery.

The money I had on hand secured us a modest apartment in Havenfall. To keep our heads above water, I've embraced single motherhood wholly. Every decision, every sacrifice, is for Willow's well-being.

I've also gotten a new job here. One of my father’s werewolf cronies, Alpha Harvey, leader of the Ironclaws, owns a consulting firm and has been kind enough to bring me on as a consultant.

I haven’t had much of a chance to use my degree since I graduated law school--I’ve basically been a stay-at-home mom and wife this entire time.

Bridget, a seasoned herbalist, looks after Willow during my work hours. Her treatments give hope for awakening Willow’s dormant wolf spirit. It’s a financial strain, but I'll do anything for her future.

Life without Hunter's resources is daunting, but I’ll manage.

**********

The Lupine Council's networking event was something I'd normally avoid. But isolation isn't an option when rebuilding life. Plus, Alpha Harvey insisted I come.

I didn't know if Hunter would attend, but I had to take the risk.

The gathering's murmuring crowd parts as I enter. Their whispers reach my ears.

"That's Raven Mercer..."

"Can you believe she dared show up?"

I lift my chin, steadying my nerves. Their prying eyes follow my every move.

I'm the daughter of Whitewood's Alpha Mercer, and now the discarded mate of Alpha Hunter Blackthorne. No wonder they're shocked to see me.

The fallen Luna - once revered, now a subject of fascination. Judged. Pitied. Scorned.

Hunter's absence is glaring. Still, I refuse to shrink under their gaze.

I overhear talks of Hunter cozying up with Lisha Crawford, the she-wolf he claimed was just a trusted advisor. Was that yet another lie to placate his ignorant, isolated wife?

Bastard.

Part of me wants to shut out the gossip. But another part needs to know what he's up to, even if through unverified rumors.

The idea of him moving on so swiftly, replacing me with her, makes my stomach twist. It feels like reopening a raw wound.

Only for him to abandon me now for whatever stupid reason he won't explain. Leaving me totally cut off after years hidden away. No allies, no pack, no one who really knows me besides Hunter.

In the end, it doesn't matter anymore. He made his choice, and I've made mine.

And i’m here, just to take my mind off of things.

Amidst the hum of conversation, Alpha Harvey approaches, his expression a blend of business and mild concern.

"Raven, there you are. I'm glad you made it," he greets me, scanning the crowd with a practiced eye. "Nights like these can be pivotal for networking. There are potential clients I'd like you to meet."

His words carry the weight of an unspoken order, reminding me of the delicate balance between my personal turmoil and professional responsibilities.

"Thank you, Alpha Harvey. I'm ready to make the most of the evening," I respond, my tone as steady as I can manage.

"Excellent," he says with an approving nod. "There's someone I'd especially like you to talk to. He's influential and could be beneficial for our firm...and for you, considering your recent...change in circumstances."

The hint of personal sympathy in his voice doesn't go unnoticed, but it's swiftly overshadowed by the sharp edge of opportunity in his gaze.

I understand the subtext clearly—this is a chance to reestablish myself, to prove my worth beyond the Blackthorne name.

After a few more kind words, he disappears into the crowd, seemingly to find this person I must meet.

I turn to get a drink, trying to gather myself amidst the intrusive stares.

As I sip my wine, I feel a presence behind me. My breath catches. I turn slowly and my gaze locks onto a familiar face.

A rush of emotions floods in: Hunter. Of course he’s here.

Fantastic.