---- fang pack. From today, the Moonridge pack withdraws all support and protection." Kaelen looked like he'd been punched. "You can't do this! The pack needs this alliance!" "You should have thought of that sooner." I threw the letter on the ground. "Now, step aside. My people are waiting for me." He didn't move, desperation and anger warring in his eyes. "I won't let you take my child." "Then try me," I responded calmly, activating the amulet on my chest. Instantly, five warriors from the Moonridge pack emerged from the trees, fully armed, their expressions grim. "anything else to say, Alpha?" I asked, my voice devoid of any emotion. Kaelen looked at the surrounding warriors and knew he couldn't stop me by force. His shoulders ---- slumped, the fire in his eyes dying out. "Sera... please don't do this." His voice was almost a plea. "Give me time to prove..." "Too late," I cut him off. 'Your time ran out long ago." I walked around him, towards my waiting pack members. As I passed him, he suddenly grabbed my wrist. "T will find you," he said in a low voice. ''No matter where you go, no matter how long it takes. I will prove myself and win back your trust." I pulled my hand away without answering and kept walking. Behind me, Kaelen's roar tore through the night, filled with pain and despair. But I didn't look back.