Chapter 25: Power Games
(Elara's POV)
Melanie's gaze is like fire, burning into me with raw hatred. Her perfectly styled appearance contrasts painfully with my simple healer's robes. I can feel her claws itching to strike.
"Name your price," she says again, her voice cold and sharp. "Everyone knows why you're here. Just say it already."
My chest tightens at her words. I hate how everyone assumes they know my reasons, my story. Like they’re entitled to judge me. Ethan’s cruel words echo in my mind, fueling the sting.
Still, I will never let her see my pain. My wolf rises within me, its presence pushing me to fight back. We have been called weak for too long.
"A desperate wolf begs for scraps of affection," I say, meeting her hostile gaze. My voice is steady, cold. "A wise one ma
