I woke with a weight pressing down on my chest, suffocating. Needing air, I stepped outside, the cool breeze doing little to lift the heaviness in my heart.
I did what I had to. I embraced myself, brushing my hand against both of my arms.
I closed my eyes, the memory of last night flooding back.
"Are you sure about this, Lady Freya?" The healer had asked, her eyes soft with sympathy.
I bit my lip to keep from breaking. "I’ve thought it through. My decision is final."
She nodded and took my hand, her warmth only making my tears spill. I looked up at the full moon, its cold light illuminating my sorrow.
I’m sorry, my son, I thought, I can’t bring you into a world where your father won’t care. Where this pack will reject us both.
"If that’s your decision, I respect it," the healer whispered.
"Thank you," I barely managed to say, my voice was raw.
"Take a deep breath. I’ll call my apprentice. We’ll start when the clock strikes midnight."
I nodded, watching her retreat into the den. The moon stared down, indifferent, as I braced for what was to come.
There was no turning back.
Word spread quickly before I could stop it—I, Freya, the Alpha’s mate, had aborted the next heir of Wolfshade.