Mira’s POV.

The bond woke me at dawn with Kael’s resolve. Not distress, and no doubt. Just certainty, steady and irreversible. I lay still, feeling it pulse through our connection.

What are you planning? I sent. No answer. Only that unwavering determination. His letter arrived two days later. I’m going to destroy my Alpha pendant, the ceremonial chain passed down through Blackridge leadership for three generations. I know this will anger people. I know it’s a cultural violation. But ...