FOURTY SEVEN

Sandra's POV

I trudged back to the pack, my heart heavy with disappointment. We had lost all hope of finding Ruth, and I desperately needed her back. She was the only one who could help me convince my brother to approve my relationship with Edison.

As I walked to my apartment, I noticed some omegas staring at my scars. I tried to ignore them, but their whispers followed me. I saw Michael approaching and attempted to avoid him, but he caught up to me.

"Ruth!" he called out, his voice loud and urgent. I walked towards him, trying to cover my scars with a veil. "What are you hiding?" he asked, his eyes filled with curiosity.

I hesitated, unsure of how much to reveal. "It's nothing, Michael," I said slowly. But he wouldn't let it go. "Let me see for myself," he said, pulling off the veil.

I stood in shock, unprepared for his reaction. "Oh my goodness, what happened to you, Sandra? Who did this to you?" he asked, his face etched with shock and concern.

I stammered, trying to explain. "I we