#Chapter 52: Regret

DEREK The car ride back to Silverclaw was silent. No music. No chatter from Joe. Just the low hum of the tires on pavement and the occasional crackle of the radio scanning for a signal we never let it settle on. I stared out the window, watching the trees blur into shadowed green. Every turn of the tires felt heavier than the last. I’d done it. Really done it. Pushed Elena away—maybe for good this time. And for what? A stupid map. A moment of doubt. A question I should have never asked. I leaned back against the headrest, shutting my eyes. The treaty had been signed. Moonstone and Silverclaw were allied now, at least in name. Which meant I’d still have to deal with her pack. But instead of Elena, I’d be dealing with Mason. Or worse, their father. Neither of them could stand me. And I didn’t blame them. I exhaled sharply and opened my eyes again. Aiden’s face flashed through my mind—his grin as he challenged me to a game of HORSE, his casual, easy confidence. The way