장 2: Chapter 2

It was obviously Selene.

I turned, my gaze landing on the energy record displayed on the table. The date stamped on it was from five weeks ago.

That day, Damien hadn't come home.

He'd told me he was dealing with a Pack border dispute.

But now I knew. He was with her, completing that "bloodline continuation" ceremony.

I was never part of their plan.

My role wasn't to "consent" or "refuse"—it was simply to be "informed."

I had been so excited about our bonding ceremony, dreaming of walking with Damien under the full moon with the blessings of our Pack.

Now, all that anticipation had crumbled to dust.

Suddenly, my own messaging crystal chimed, pulling me from my thoughts.

My former professor's voice came through.

"Elena, I know your ceremony is soon."

"But I have to ask one last time. Are you sure you won't reconsider the position at the academy?"

"You're the most talented psychic healer I've ever taught, and I've always hoped you would join our research team."

"Given your circumstances, I can approve a more flexible schedule, where you work for two months and then take a half-month break."

"That way, you'll still have time to be with your mate."

My professor had established a new psychic research project in Switzerland. Six months ago, he had invited me to join his paranormal psychology research team.

But taking the position meant being completely cut off from my personal life, unable to contact the outside world for weeks, months, or even a year at a time.

Back then, I couldn't bear the thought of being away from Damien for so long, so I'd declined.

Damien was no longer worth sacrificing my career for.

"Professor, I'll take the job. I don't need any special leave. I'll follow the project's normal schedule."

Surprise colored my professor's voice.

"That's wonderful news!"

"When can you start?"

"How about the week after your ceremony? That will give you some time with your mate."

I replied softly, "No, I can be there on the day of the ceremony."

My gaze fell to the calendar on the table.

The tenth of next month. I had circled it in red.

I'd wanted it as a constant reminder of the countdown to our new life together.

Now, it was a countdown to my departure.