(21
I stared at my reflection in the mirror, my hands brushing over the slight curve of my belly. My baby bump had become more noticeable now, though I was careful to hide it under my uniform. The loose fabric did most of the work, but it wouldn’t be long before people started asking questions.
A part of me wanted to stop hiding, to let the world know that this little life was mine and mine alone. But the
other part–the one that knew how cruel wolves could be–kept me silent.
Something else was bothering me, though. Ever since the hunting event and that strange ritual with Bianca, I’d
felt… different. Stronger, sharper, more aware of everything around me. My wolf, usually calm and steady, now felt like
a force barely contained under my skin.
I glanced at the birthmark on my wrist. It hadn’t changed since the day I was born, but now, every time I looked at it, something deep inside me stirred. It didn’t make sense. Bianca had completed the ritual. She was the true princess. I had no right to feel this way, no right to entertain the wild thoughts creeping into my mind.
Shaking off the unease, I pulled on my boo
for a meeting, and I didn’t want to be late.
and headed for the training grounds. The knights were gathering
Laurent stood at the front of the room, his tall frame commanding attention. His eyes scanned the crowd, lingering on me for a moment before he began to speak.
“This year, the annual competition for she–wolves will be held in the royal arena,” he announced, his voice calm but firm. “This isn’t just an event; it’s a tradition. A showcase of strength, skill, and resilience among our finest she–wolves. Royals, high–ranking wolves, and leaders from across the kingdom will participate.”
Murmurs spread through the group, excitement bubbling in the air. For most she–wolves, this competition was a chance to prove themselves, to stand out in a society that often underestimated us.
“The grand prize,” Laurent continued, “is significant a sum of gold large enough to start a new life and
ownership of a house on the edge of the royal lands.”
My ears perked up at that. A house. Enough money to leave this place behind. It was too good to be true.
After the meeting. Laurent called me into his office. I could already tell from his expression that he wasn’t happy.
“Remi,” he said, his tone softer than usual, “we need to talk”
I folded my arms. “What is it?”
“You’re not entering the competition,” he said bluntly.
I blinked “Excuse me?”
“It’s too dangerous,” he said, stepping closer. “You’re… in no condition to compete
My wolf bristled at his words. “Laurent, I’m fine. I’m stronger than I’ve ever been.”
“That’s not the point,” he argued, running a hand through his hair. “What if you get hurt? What if something happens to “He stopped himself, his eyes flicking briefly to my stomach
I narrowed my eyes. “Laurent, I need that prize money. Do you understand what that could mean for me? For my baby’s future?”
He sighed heavily. “Remi, I get it. But there has to be another way. You don’t have to risk yourself like this. You know I can help you”
I shook my head, my resolve hardening. “Laurent, this is my decision. If I win, I can leave this place. I can give my baby a real chance at life. Don’t try to stop me.”
For a moment, he just stared at me, his jaw tight. “You’re the most stubborn wolf I’ve ever met,” he muttered.
“And you’re not going to change my mind,” I shot back, though a small smile tugged at my lips.
He pinched the bridge of his nose. “Fine. But I’m going to keep an eye on you during the competition. If anything
seems off, I’m pulling you out. No arguments.
“Deal,” I said quickly, knowing it was the best I was going to get
As I turned to leave, Laurent’s voice stopped me.
“Remi,” he said softly, “be careful. Please.”
I glanced back at him, my heart squeezing at the worry in his eyes. “I will,” I promised.
