---- Chapter 5 When Gary returned to the den, Jane was still ina coma. He stayed by her side all night, worried, until dawn broke and the storm finally subsided. After Jane had fully rested, she opened her eyes, blinking in surprise. "Gary, when did you come back?" "I got back last night," Gary replied with a gentle smile. "The clan's healer checked on you and said your feel uncomfortable-too much emotional distress. He told me not to wake you." " Howare you feeling now?" Jane smiled sweetly. "Much better after the nap." She looked around, feigning concern. "Where's my sister? Didn't she come with you?" Only then did Gary remember how he had abandoned Nadia on the roadside the night before. Thinking of the storm, the wind, the hail... a twinge of ---- regret pierced his heart. But then again, Nadia had always been tough and independent-surely, she could call a cab. Why should he worry? What he didn't know was that Nadia had left her phone downstairs in the basement. "She's having surgery in a week," Gary said calmly. " She needs proper rest, so I asked her to head back on her own." Jane nodded obediently, then couldn't help asking with eager anticipation, "Gary... when are we going to claim?" Gary frowned slightly, ready to dodge the question- but her wide, glistening eyes made him impossible to say no. "Once you're feeling better," he said, "we'll go." "T feel fine already," Jane pouted. "Can we go now, please?" Gary pressed his lips together, clearly hesitant. ---- Jane shoulders shook, her voice quivering. "I'm sorry .. [didn't mean to push you." "T'm just... so scared. Werewolf Social Media are saying such awful things. I'm terrified they think I'm some filthy homewrecker..." In the past, Gary would've only felt heartache hearing that. But today, something felt... off. After all, it was true-he had betrayed Nadia. The internet wasn't wrong this time. With a rare seriousness, he said, "Jane, what happened between us was just an accident. I hope you're not getting the wrong thought." Jane froze for a moment, bitterness flashing in her eyes. An accident? Who has accidents over and over again? Still, she wore her most fragile expression. "I know you love my sister more. Once this storm passes, I'll give you back to her."