“A celebration?” he repeated, an amused smile forming. “You and your love for parties and dancing. When would you like it?”
He didn’t realize the truth. I had never enjoyed those things. I only acted like I did because he loved them. I wanted to be part of his world, to belong there. But even after all that, it was never enough. My chest tightened with that sad realization.
“Tomorrow night,” I told him, stretching my lips into a smile. “And I want you to dance with me.”
His grin faltered briefly, but he gave a small nod. “If that’s what will make you happy, then I’ll be there. We’ll dance, just like old times—a night to remember.”
I wanted to believe him. I really did.
He pressed a kiss to my forehead, lingering a beat longer than usual. “Oh, before I forget,” he added hesitantly, not quite meeting my eyes, “I won’t be staying tonight. Something urgent came up in Werewolf City. But I’ll be back before the celebration, I promise.”
Of course he wouldn’t be staying. The whispers around the pack had already reached my ears—he was taking Carla with him. The two of them were headed to the capital together.