SIXtY NINE

RUTH's POV

I stood in the forest, my wolf senses on high alert, as I watched my mother approach. She looked older, worn down by the weight of her own secrets and lies. I could sense the desperation in her eyes, the urgency in her steps.

"Ruth, please forgive me," she said, her voice trembling. "Forgive me and your father for forsaking you, for disowning you as our child."

I snorted, my wolf rising to the surface. "You think a simple apology will make up for everything?" I growled.

My mother took a step closer, her eyes pleading. "I know it won't, but I have to try. Your father is sick, Ruth. He needs your help to heal."

I raised an eyebrow. "My help? What could I possibly do to help him?"

My mother took a deep breath. "You have the power to heal, Ruth. A power that's been passed down through our family for generations."

I laughed, a harsh, mocking sound. "You expect me to believe that? After everything you've done to me?"

My mother nodded. "I know it's hard to believe, but it's true.