Sensing my words had come off a bit cold, I added, "Come back to the den early."
He visibly relaxed, pressing a light kiss to my cheek. "You're so thoughtful, sweetheart. Next time there's something more formal, I'll definitely bring you. Let everyone meet you properly."
I looked at the sincerity on his face and almost laughed.
Five years. This was the first time in five years he'd ever mentioned making our bond public.
And it happened to be right when I'd already decided to leave.
I turned toward the chamber door, my back to him. "Sure. Next time."
The moment the door clicked shut, I knew.
That "next time" would never come.
And I was right.
Just as I'd predicted, his companion that night was Aurora.
The celebration grounds glittered with moonstone lanterns, honeyed mead flowing freely.
Aurora wore an exquisite white ceremonial gown, her arm linked through his as all eyes followed them. Her cheeks were flushed, and she kept leaning into him, drawing good-natured teasing from the gathered wolves.
"Aurora's gotten so beautiful."
"I know, right? She and Fenris look perfect together."
Everyone tactfully avoided mentioning their former pack-sibling bond.