Chapter 3: Blood Ties and Old Secrets

Half an hour ago, the bodyguard called and told me a truth Derek had tried to keep from me:

"Aubrey, do you remember five years ago? Second Young Master took you skiing in the Rockies, and you fell into a ravine."

His voice was rough, heavy with old secrets. "The eldest young master led the rescue, searching three days and nights. When they found you, you’d already stopped breathing."

"The eldest told the second that werewolves can split half their lifespan with their partner—if a blood ritual is performed under the full moon."

"That ritual—it’s another way to mark your mate."

"Once it’s done, you’re the only partner they’ll ever have."

It sounded like a myth, but the ache in my chest was real.

"But Second Young Master refused. He couldn’t bear your death, but he wouldn’t make that sacrifice. He just held you and sobbed."

"In the end, it was the eldest who saved you."

"You were lucky—it was a full moon. He performed the ritual, split his life, and marked you. Now, for the rest of his life, you’re his only partner."

"The second begged the eldest not to tell you."

"For five years, every full moon, the eldest has suffered alone, never disturbing you, and made us all swear to silence."

"But tonight, he can’t hold on. He’s badly hurt, it’s the full moon, and without you, he won’t make it. Please, can you come?"

My mind spun. The fridge hummed so loud it hurt. I’d actually died once—and Derek, who claimed to care, couldn’t do what his cold, terrifying brother did for me.

Still, I tried to harden my heart. I told the bodyguard:

"Sorry. Derek needs me more tonight."

I’d rather be ungrateful and help Derek get through it.

But after everything—after being called a puppy, a toy—I was done being cheap. I wouldn’t be anyone’s backup plan again.

I wiped my tears, gripped my phone, and said:

"Is it too late to repay Caleb for saving my life?"

"If he needs me tonight, I’ll go. Whatever it takes."

The bodyguard was so relieved, his voice shook:

"It’s not too late. I’ll send the location right now!"

"If he weren’t this badly hurt, I’d never dare break his orders and tell you. He’s strict, but you’re the only one who can help."

I got it—Caleb probably just wanted to save my life, nothing more. He didn’t want me to get attached.

And I just wanted to pay back my debt—not because Derek hurt me, not because I wanted to run into Caleb’s arms. Just because it was right.