---- be completely public yet. I'll take care of the ceremony stuff. Just think of it as a cover, a show. Don't overthink it, my little beta." His hot breath fanned over the sensitive skin of my neck. "Aria, don't worry, my Alpha instincts only stir for you. Stop being difficult, okay? I got you a gift, it'll be here tomorrow. You're going to love it, hmm?" His hand started to roam. I fought back the nausea and shame churning inside me, forced a compliant smile, and nodded. He didn't seem to notice anything was wrong. He hummed, satisfied, and pulled me tighter, his chin resting on top of my head. After a moment, he spoke with a hint of hesitation, but his voice still carried an Alpha's undeniable authority: "It's just... the pack's Marking ceremony is a big deal, can't be rushed. As... the closest person to me, maybe you..." ---- "Okay, I'll go," I cut him off softly. I knew what he wanted to say. Better to play along with his "performance" than wait for him to vaguely grant me some unclear status. At least I could keep a tiny shred of dignity. He seemed a little surprised by my change in attitude, but he'd gotten what he wanted, so he didn't bother digging into why. That night, he slept in my room again, wrapped me tight in his powerful Alpha scent, like I was his most precious treasure. And I was like a soulless puppet, letting him do whatever he wanted. Early the next morning, before most of the pack was awake, Connor slipped out of my room, just like always. ---- He was barely out the door before I left too. I went to take care of all the paperwork needed to disappear completely from the werewolf world and submitted an application to permanently erase my scent markings. I never expected to run into Elena there.