Her gaze fell to their intertwined hands—Fenris's palm wrapped possessively around Selene's, their bodies pressed together in a way that spoke of far more than casual comfort. She had steeled herself for this moment. She knew their bond had withered long ago, that whatever thread once connected them had frayed beyond repair. Yet her heart still felt as though countless tiny fangs were piercing it, the pain so acute it robbed her of breath.
She lowered her eyes, concealing the burning sensation behind them. After steadying the tremor in her chest, she lifted her chin and met their gazes, her tone flat, as though discussing something of no consequence whatsoever. "A packmate asked me to help her locate a temporary den. Why—do you have territory available?"
Fenris's treatment of her had grown colder with each passing moon, even vicious. Even if she did return to Wolfridge Territory someday, she would never allow herself to become entangled with him again. So there was no purpose in revealing her plans to study beyond the borders. Any explanation would be wasted breath on deaf ears.