After returning to the Bloodmoon Pack's manor, I just wanted to head back to my room and rest.
But then Hebert called out to me. "Now that you and Brian have nothing to do with each other, what's your answer to that question from before?" he asked.
I stayed quiet. I knew Hebert cared about me—loved me, even. But diving into the safety he offered? That was the last thing I could afford to do. What I needed wasn't someone to protect me but the power to steer my own life.
"Hebert," I said, my tone serious as I called his name.
He looked up, and those blue eyes of his, like polished sapphires, held a kind, steady glow.
I met his gaze directly, my voice calm but resolute. "Hebert, I'm so thankful for everything you've done for me. I truly mean that. But I've got to be straight
