My eyes scanned the crowd, noticing the strong Oak Pack, the stern Mountain Guards, and Hina standing a few feet behind me. Everyone’s eyes were on me, and I felt their attention press down on me like a heavy weight.

Maya, who was big and intimidating, took a step forward. "Hina is a member of the Mountain Pack; she rightfully belongs with us," she stated emphatically.

I said, shaking my head, my medium-brown hair falling down my back, "Hina is not a prisoner here; I willingly gave her ...