Chapter 143

VALENTINA The Ebonn Moon Clan packhouse hummed with a quiet energy as I calmed down. Then I looked up at my father. “Papa,” I started, voice firm though my chest constricted, “You’ve seen it, didn't you? I need—” “Valentina, you’ve asked this before. You know I cannot tell you. Not now, not ever. The truth about your mother—about her origin—is not safe for you.” Papa looked frustrated. “I don’t care!” I spat, frustration clawing at my throat. “Every day, I feel this darkness, this blood coursing through me, and I can’t control it fully because I don’t even know who I come from! How am I supposed to understand myself if you keep hiding it?” His jaw tightened, pain flickering behind his grey eyes. “I loved her more than my life. I lost her once—I will not lose you the same way. Some truths carry weight too heavy for even the strongest heart. I will protect you, Valentina, even from yourself.” “I’m not a child!” I shouted, my wolf surging in response, claws of shadow flickering beneath my