**Isabella's POV**

I hide in the shadows of the forest, watching Astrein's retreating figure as he walks away from me toward the Alpha house. This is the last time I'll see him like this—as the object of my obsession, the focus of all my misguided desires.

His shoulders are straight despite everything he's carrying. His stride purposeful even after the confrontation we just had. He's going to face his mother now, and I know that won't be easy for ...