Chapter 47

Victoria I stared into Aurora's eyes, determination hardening my resolve. "I need to know the whole truth." Aurora's laugh was hollow. "The truth? You wouldn't even know what to do with it." "Try me," I challenged, leaning forward. "Starting with why you left your mate and son for another Alpha." Something flashed in her eyes—pain, possibly even shame. "You think it was that simple? That I just woke up one day and decided to abandon my family?" "Wasn't it?" I pressed. "You chose wealth and power over love and loyalty." "I chose escape!" Aurora snapped, suddenly animated. "My father was Silver Claw royalty—the Alpha's brother. Did you know that? We should have lived in luxury, commanded respect. Instead, he followed my mother like a lovesick puppy into that pathetic excuse for a pack your father led." I bit back a retort, forcing myself to listen. "Do you have any idea what it's like to grow up knowing you were meant for greatness but forced to live in mediocrity?" she continued bitterl