Chapter 42

• Aurora's POV
• The Nightshade Pack's main house loomed before me, its windows glowing warmly in the twilight. Yet, as I approached, my steps faltered. The place that had once been my sanctuary now felt more like a gilded cage. Taking a deep breath, I steeled myself for the conversation ahead. It was time to confront Ethan about his overbearing behavior.
• I found him in his study, hunched over a stack of papers. He looked up as I entered, his face brightening. "Aurora," he smiled, rising to greet me. "I was just thinking about you."