Cynthia was quiet for a moment. "I hope you're right. I'm coming back tomorrow with something special – we should celebrate your last night here."
"You're the best friend anyone could ask for," I told her, reaching through the bars to squeeze her hand.
After she left, I couldn't sleep. Freedom was so close. I imagined walking out of this cell, standing proud beside Owen as he announced me as his Luna. No more whispers and no more shame. Finally, I would have everything I'd dreamed of.
The next day crawled by. Every footstep made my heart race, wondering if it was Owen coming to release me. Finally, as evening approached I heard multiple sets of footsteps.
Owen appeared at my cell door, looking magnificent in his new Alpha robes. My heart swelled with pride and love.
"You did it?" I asked, though I could feel the power radiating from him. "You're Alpha now?"
"Thanks to you, my love. I couldn't have done this without your sacrifice." He smiled.
"When can I leave?" I tried to hide my eagerness. "Are you going to release me now?"
"Tomorrow," he said. "There's just one more thing I need to show you first."
My heart sank a little but I managed to whisper. "What's that?"