Soraya's POV
Ethan's hesitation lasted only a breath.
A faint, fragile pause where his eyes found mine—long enough for hope to flicker… then shatter.
For the briefest heartbeat, I thought I saw conflict in him — that same war I'd witnessed in rare moments like when he tried sacrificing Asha for the curse. The one where his wolf pushed against the chains of duty. But just like every time before… duty won.
Because the moment the elder called his name again, he tore his gaze away and came toward the dais. Toward the elders. Toward his father. Toward the throne.
Of course he did.
Why would I ever expect him to choose me over power? Over Silverfang?
He came closer,
close enough that I could feel the weight of his presence,
close enough that my heart dared to believe—each step a reminder of where his loyalty lay.
A wave of regret crashed through me so violently I nearly staggered.
If only I had accepted Thorne's help. If only I had escaped when I had the chance.
