chapter 8: Debby’s story

CARA'S POV

It’s been two days since my mate ran away. The image of his eyes filled with denial and regret still haunts my dreams, replaying over and over in my mind like a cruel loop. He stood there, frozen, his spoils from the hunt dangling in his hands as if they were the only things grounding him. Then, as if things couldn’t get any worse, he fled, rejecting our mate bond.

Every time I remember the disgust in his eyes, my heart shatters all over again. The pain is relentless, like a knife being twisted deeper and deeper with each heartbeat.

I heard footsteps approaching before I saw her. “My lady, it’s Debby,” came the soft voice.

“Go away. I don’t want to see anyone,” I sobbed, curling further into myself.

“My lady, I brought food. You haven’t eaten in two days.” She set down the tray, and the aroma of the meal wafted through the room, teasing my senses.

“It’s fine, my lady. Master was just paranoid and shocked. I’m sure he’ll come around,” she said in a tone meant to c