Chapter 140

The council chamber was silent as I stood before them with my heart heavy but resolute. Members of Derek’s pack sat in a semicircle with their eyes filled with worry and confusion. Tobias was beside me and his brow furrowed as he glanced my way. He didn’t know what I was about to say, but I had no doubt he suspected it wasn’t good. I took a deep breath, letting the weight of my decision settle over me. “Thank you all for coming,” I began with my voice steady despite the turmoil inside me. The wolves murmured quietly, their unease was palpable. “I’ve come to a decision,” I continued, looking out over the gathered wolves. “The witches are targeting this pack because of me. Every attack, every loss—it's all because I’m here. They won’t stop until they get what they want.” Tobias shifted uncomfortably, but I pressed on before he could interrupt. “I can’t allow more innocent lives to be lost because of me,” I said with my voice growing firmer. “That’s why I’ve decided to leave. Tobias will