“Victoria isn’t like your mother. She’s practically pack – more than pack. In my heart, she’s always been family.”
I felt my claws threatening to emerge. “Then why am I the one who has to travel alone? Those convoy spots were secured months ago.”
“The convoy’s full. I had to cancel your spot to make room for Victoria. You are strong. You can go through Shadow Pack territory on your own.”
I checked the permit again. Of all the routes, he’d chosen the deadliest one.
“So Victoria gets the protected convoy while I risk my life crossing hostile territory alone?”
“You’re always saying you want to explore other territories. Now’s your chance.”
I looked to James and Sarah, Alexander’s parents whom I’d supported for years.
James turned away.
Sarah came over with a placating smile. “Scarlett, dear, Victoria and Alexander grew up running the same hunting grounds. They have so many shared memories. Of course they should travel together. Just take the longer route and meet us there.”
Emma chimed in: “Sister Scarlett, Victoria is delicate. She can’t handle crossing Shadow Pack territory alone. You’re strong and capable – you’ll manage.”
I laughed bitterly. “Who’s really pack here? An outsider gets treated better than your pack therapist, your provider. Anyone would think Victoria was your true mate!”
Alexander’s eyes flashed gold with anger. “It’s just a different travel route. Stop making such a fuss. Victoria’s family – she ran with us since we were pups. We can’t make her cross hostile territory alone. Make this small sacrifice – show what it means to be a proper mate!”
The front door of our villa opened then.
Emma rushed to greet Victoria, who swept in wearing designer clothes that cost more than Alexander’s monthly salary.
“Victoria! I’ve been waiting forever! Come in, come in!”
Emma helped Victoria with her massive Louis Vuitton travel bags.
“I’ve missed you so much! If only you hadn’t left our territory back then – you could have been my real sister when you mated with Alexander!”
Sarah grabbed Victoria’s manicured hands. “Exactly! I always saw you as my future daughter-in-law. In my heart, no one compares to you!”
They said this right in front of me, without a shred of shame.
In that moment, my heart froze toward them all.
