The moon was high, golden and sharp against the dark sky, casting long silver streaks across the trees. Laughter rang out from the fire-lit clearing as couples danced barefoot on the soft earth, the rhythmic drumbeats echoing deep into the woods.

It was a night of celebration—my sister’s bonding ceremony. Lilah and Kael were to be officially recognized as mates tomorrow, and tonight was for wine, music, and rituals.

I should’ve been happy.

But I couldn’t breathe.

I stood ...