Burned the Fake Bond is an emotional werewolf romance short drama filled with rejected mates, betrayal, hidden truths, revenge, and second chances. After devoting everything to the man she believes is her destined mate, a young wolf discovers that the bond binding them was manipulated from the very beginning. Refusing to remain trapped in a fake destiny, she burns the false mate bond, walks away from the Alpha who betrayed her, and begins a powerful journey to reclaim her freedom, her pack, and her heart. As old enemies return and a true fated mate appears, she must choose between revenge and a new future.
I couldn't verify an official synopsis for Burned the Fake Bond under this exact title. The description above is based on the promotional artwork and common themes found in werewolf short dramas rather than a confirmed official plot.
#BurnedTheFakeBond #RejectedMate #WerewolfRomance #AlphaKing #FatedMate #FantasyRomance #ShortDrama #DramaSeries #ENGSUB #WolfShifter #RevengeDrama #FullEpisode #ShortFilm #ShortMovie
I couldn't verify an official synopsis for Burned the Fake Bond under this exact title. The description above is based on the promotional artwork and common themes found in werewolf short dramas rather than a confirmed official plot.
#BurnedTheFakeBond #RejectedMate #WerewolfRomance #AlphaKing #FatedMate #FantasyRomance #ShortDrama #DramaSeries #ENGSUB #WolfShifter #RevengeDrama #FullEpisode #ShortFilm #ShortMovie
Category
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Short filmTranscript
00:00:00Yona wasted seven years caring for Damien's fake paralyzed mother.
00:00:05She discovered At Damien had already mated a pureblood female named At Nova.
00:00:10Damien only used At Yuna as a free caretaker to secure his beta position.
00:00:16Yuna burned their unofficial mate bond and left the town immediately.
00:00:21She accepted the mating mark from a loyal Border Patrol captain named Caleb.
00:00:25Caleb risked his life to secure an official mate recognition decree for her.
00:00:31Damien lost his power and begged At Yuna to come back.
00:00:34Yuna rejected him and built a happy life with Caleb and their twin pups.
00:00:39I spent seven years of my youth making sure Damien Voss had no burdens as he fought for the position
00:00:46of Deputy Alpha of the Blood Fling Pack.
00:00:49I stayed in that forgotten little town of Greywood, hidden in the woods, taking full-time care of his paralyzed
00:00:55mother, Mira.
00:00:56Seven years.
00:00:58Damien only came home once a year, for the Blood Moon, and stayed just two days.
00:01:04He never even shared a bed with me.
00:01:07Half of the Blood Fang Pack want the Deputy Alpha spot.
00:01:10I can barely protect myself right now, let alone you.
00:01:15If you got pregnant, I'd have to drag you into hiding everywhere I go.
00:01:18Just the thought of that makes me lose control.
00:01:21Every time we said goodbye at the edge of town, his eyes would turn blood wet and he'd hold me
00:01:27so tight it hurt.
00:01:29Once I secure the Deputy position, I'll claim you under the full moon, in front of the entire pack.
00:01:35You'll be my mate, openly and honorably.
00:01:38In the seventh winter, a sudden blizzard swept through the hole of Greywood.
00:01:43Damien was stuck on the road, delayed for days.
00:01:47I had just finished making bone broth and was carrying a bowl to Mira's room when I stopped in my
00:01:53tracks.
00:01:53The door was cracked open.
00:01:55She was on a video call with Damien's cousin.
00:01:58Aunt Mira, how long are you going to keep up the wheelchair act?
00:02:03Keep faking and your legs will really be crippled for good.
00:02:10Mira let out a loud, sharp snort, full of energy.
00:02:14Nothing like a sick person.
00:02:16You don't get it.
00:02:18I'm doing this for Damien.
00:02:20Three years ago, he mated with Nova, Magnus Blackwood's daughter.
00:02:26Their pure-blood twins are already running around.
00:02:31If I didn't pretend to be paralyzed and keep Yona trapped here,
00:02:35she would have gone to the city and exposed everything.
00:02:39Once the elders investigate Damien's double mate bond,
00:02:43his deputy alpha position is done for.
00:02:46True.
00:02:47I guess we'll have to keep this secret for now.
00:02:50Damien said once his deputy position is solid,
00:02:53he'll give Yona some money and send her away.
00:02:56The bowl slipped out of my hand.
00:02:59It hit the floor without a sound.
00:03:01The boiling hot bone broth splashed over my feet,
00:03:04burning like ice, but I felt nothing.
00:03:07My blood ran cold.
00:03:09My teeth started chavering uncontrollably.
00:03:13So all his sweet words were,
00:03:15never to protect me.
00:03:17He'd had a real mate in the city the whole time.
00:03:19Seven years, never changed.
00:03:22I didn't scream.
00:03:23I didn't storm in and confront them.
00:03:26I just turned and walked out of that cabin that had been my prison for seven years.
00:03:31I braved the blizzard and took a car straight to the Silver Ridge Border Patrol stace
00:03:36to find the one person who had once looked at me like I was his whole world.
00:03:39Caleb, does your offer still stand?
00:03:42The man in patrol uniform spun around.
00:03:46His eyes, always so wild and proud, were full of disbelief.
00:03:51His hands trembled slightly.
00:03:53He blinked a few times, then spoke in a deep, rough voice.
00:03:57Yona, just say the word, and everything I have is yours.
00:04:01But give me two weeks.
00:04:04My squad leaves tonight.
00:04:06We're wiping out a rogue wolf pack crossing the border.
00:04:08When I come back,
00:04:10I'll give everything I have to petition the elders for a mate bond decree.
00:04:14Under the moonlight,
00:04:16in front of the whole pack,
00:04:18we'll be bound officially.
00:04:20I reached up and smoothed his collar.
00:04:23I don't need a decree.
00:04:25I just need you to come back safe and take me with you.
00:04:28I watched Caleb's koi drive off,
00:04:31then walked back to Greywood through the snow.
00:04:34The house should have been dark,
00:04:35but all the lights were on.
00:04:37The front door was open.
00:04:39A tall figure rose from the sofa and stood there.
00:04:42Yona, I came back early.
00:04:45Seven years had worn away all of Damien's tenderness.
00:04:49Now he was a wolf strong enough to make anyone fear him.
00:04:52He instinctively opened his arms,
00:04:55waiting for me to run to him
00:04:56and brush the snow off his shoulders.
00:04:59I didn't.
00:05:02I just sat down,
00:05:03took off my soaked boots and said in a flat voice,
00:05:07Have you eaten?
00:05:08I'll get you some food.
00:05:09His arms froze in midair.
00:05:11His jaw tightened.
00:05:13He tugged at his collar,
00:05:15trying to hide his embarrassment.
00:05:17What's wrong?
00:05:18Are you mad because I was late?
00:05:19In the past,
00:05:20I would have been crying my eyes out.
00:05:22What female wolf would willingly waste her best years
00:05:25trapped in endless waiting?
00:05:26But once the truth is completely revealed,
00:05:29love dies for good.
00:05:31Making a scene would only make me look pathetic.
00:05:33Leaving with dignity was the only choice.
00:05:35I didn't answer.
00:05:37I just walked into the kitchen.
00:05:39Go see Mira.
00:05:40I'll call you when the food is ready.
00:05:44He followed me and wrapped his arms around my waist from behind.
00:05:49His voice cold.
00:05:51You know what's really going on with you?
00:05:53Did someone in town say something to you?
00:05:56I didn't struggle.
00:05:57I just gently plied his fingers off my waist
00:06:00and turned around with a tired little smile.
00:06:02They're all elderly omegas in this town.
00:06:06Why would I take their gossip seriously?
00:06:09You're being paranoid.
00:06:11The suspicion in his eyes faded
00:06:13and he breathed a sigh of relief.
00:06:16He reached up to stroke my hair,
00:06:18his voice condescendingly gentle.
00:06:22Yuna, this time I'm back.
00:06:24I want to move you and Mother to the city.
00:06:26There's something I need to tell you first.
00:06:27My heart clenched.
00:06:31Finally, here it comes.
00:06:34After seven years,
00:06:36he couldn't even pretend to be affectionate anymore.
00:06:38Damien led me into the living room.
00:06:41The scene before me was like a nightmare.
00:06:44On my sofa sat a woman
00:06:47in an expensive coat and high heels.
00:06:50Two children stood beside her,
00:06:53their features identical to Damien's.
00:06:55Mira sat in her wheelchair.
00:06:57Staring at the floor.
00:06:59And that woman,
00:07:01she was stunning
00:07:02and carried herself with extraordinary grace.
00:07:06She walked over slowly in her red-soled heels,
00:07:09took off her sand glasses,
00:07:10and gave me a fake smile.
00:07:12You must be Yuna.
00:07:14I'm Nova Blackwood.
00:07:16I heard you've been taking care of everything here
00:07:18all these years,
00:07:19looking after Damien.
00:07:21She paused,
00:07:22then nudged the two children forward.
00:07:24Come on,
00:07:25say hello to Auntie Yuna.
00:07:29I couldn't breathe,
00:07:31couldn't speak.
00:07:32When Damien saw how pale I'd gone,
00:07:35he immediately stepped in front of Nova
00:07:36and grabbed my wrist.
00:07:41Yuna,
00:07:43let me explain,
00:07:45please.
00:07:46When I first got to the city,
00:07:49I was ambushed by rogue wolves.
00:07:51I nearly died.
00:07:53Nova and the Blackwood Warriors saved me.
00:07:55The Blackwood Pack never accepts outsiders.
00:07:59The only way I could get into their inner circle
00:08:01was to mate with Nova.
00:08:03I had no choice.
00:08:05But the one I love has always been you.
00:08:08Always.
00:08:09This is just a power play.
00:08:10I never meant to have children with her.
00:08:14He was getting more and more agitated.
00:08:17He raised his hand and swore,
00:08:19Yuna.
00:08:21I did all of this for our future.
00:08:24Come to the city with me.
00:08:26I can give you everything
00:08:27except the title of Deputy Alpha's mate.
00:08:30Everything.
00:08:31No holding back.
00:08:32You never have to see her.
00:08:36I'll protect you, I swear.
00:08:38Watching him pour out his heart
00:08:40with all those lies
00:08:41made me want to throw up.
00:08:43I pulled my wrist back.
00:08:45No tears.
00:08:47Just a faint smile.
00:08:49I'm just glad you've made a place
00:08:50for yourself in the city.
00:08:51No need to explain.
00:08:53The calmness in my own voice surprised me.
00:08:56Mira's leg will never heal here in Greywood.
00:08:58The city has the best healers.
00:09:01She might even walk again.
00:09:04Damien froze.
00:09:05He had expected me to break down,
00:09:07cry,
00:09:08yell,
00:09:09question him.
00:09:10But not this calm.
00:09:12His face lit up instantly.
00:09:14He couldn't wait to speak.
00:09:16Really?
00:09:17Yuna!
00:09:18You actually understand?
00:09:19You're not mad?
00:09:21The tension in the air melted away.
00:09:24He started planning out loud.
00:09:25Pack tomorrow.
00:09:27Leave the day after.
00:09:29We'll make it just in time
00:09:31for the Blood Moon Feast.
00:09:33I'm not going with you.
00:09:35I cut him off directly.
00:09:36The smile vanished from his face.
00:09:41What?
00:09:43Yuna, you just said...
00:09:45I looked him straight in the eye
00:09:46and lied without flinching.
00:09:48The house and my shop are my assets.
00:09:51It'd be a shame to leave them empty.
00:09:53You take Mira to the city and get settled.
00:09:56I'll stay behind to handle the property
00:09:58and organize Mira's medical records.
00:10:01I'll come find you after the Blood Moon.
00:10:03His expression shifted slightly.
00:10:06He knew very well how hard she had worked for that house and that shop.
00:10:10From the day I became an adult,
00:10:12I worked at the healing clinic all day
00:10:15and set up a stall at the night market.
00:10:17Saving every penny.
00:10:20Scraping by.
00:10:21Just to build him a stable home to come back to.
00:10:25A flicker of fake guilt, guilt passed through his eyes.
00:10:30Yuna, I'm about to become the deputy alpha of the blood-flang pack.
00:10:34I could buy half this town without blinking.
00:10:37That house is nothing.
00:10:40Don't worry about it.
00:10:41I shook my head.
00:10:43I built this with my own hands.
00:10:45I'm not giving it up easily.
00:10:48Damien hesitated.
00:10:50Nova sensed something was off.
00:10:52She took his arm and lowered her voice.
00:10:56Honey, let her handle it.
00:10:59All the elders are watching you right now.
00:11:02If you bring your old flame into the city on the eve of your appointment,
00:11:07your deputy alpha position is as good as gone.
00:11:11That hit him right in his weak spot.
00:11:14What he feared most was that I,
00:11:16the one who'd waited for him for seven years without ever being officially claimed,
00:11:20would ruin his future.
00:11:22I watched him weigh his options,
00:11:24swallowing the last bit of pain in my heart.
00:11:27To get rid of him for good,
00:11:29I gave him an offer he couldn't refuse.
00:11:32Damien, Nova's right.
00:11:34You can't afford any trouble right now.
00:11:36To put your mind at ease,
00:11:39let's dissolve our old mate bond.
00:11:44Even Atmira's head shot up.
00:11:46His eyes narrowed.
00:11:47That vow?
00:11:49We never had a formal pack ceremony,
00:11:51but back when we were young,
00:11:53we made a private vow on the old street of Greywood.
00:11:57He had signed a mate contract with his own blood.
00:12:01In the eyes of the old school Greywood wolves,
00:12:04that bond was real and unbreakable.
00:12:08Once that contract burns,
00:12:09we're done for good.
00:12:10When Caleb comes back,
00:12:11I'll be free to accept his claim.
00:12:13Damien stared at me,
00:12:15hesitating,
00:12:16genuinely torn.
00:12:18Yonah,
00:12:19you once said that contract meant more to you than your own life.
00:12:23It was proof of our love.
00:12:25Burning it will cause your bloodline to reject you.
00:12:29He remembered everything.
00:12:32But so what?
00:12:34For seven years,
00:12:36he'd lived side by side
00:12:38with another female,
00:12:40climbing the ranks with the help of her family's elders.
00:12:44And me?
00:12:45I spent every day taking care of his mother,
00:12:48who was faking her paralysis.
00:12:50He made me so many beautiful promises,
00:12:53but he never kept a single one.
00:12:54I forced some wetness into my eyes
00:12:57and played the pitiful Omega once more.
00:12:59If it helps you,
00:13:00I can handle a little pain.
00:13:02Once you're settled in the city,
00:13:03you can throw me a big ceremony.
00:13:05We have plenty of time.
00:13:07Mira immediately chimed in.
00:13:10Yonah's right.
00:13:11This is a critical moment.
00:13:13You can't leave any loose ends.
00:13:16Yonah is being so understanding.
00:13:18The Vos family will make it up to her, I promise.
00:13:22Under the watchful eyes of both his mother and Nova,
00:13:26Damien finally pulled out the yellowed contract paper from his coat.
00:13:30He flicked his lighter.
00:13:34Yonah, wait for me.
00:13:36After the blood moon,
00:13:38I will come back for you.
00:13:40The contract turned to ash
00:13:42and scattered in the wind.
00:13:45Every chain that had bound me for seven years was broken.
00:13:50I laughed softly.
00:13:52Okay.
00:13:53That night after everyone went to sleep,
00:13:56At Nova stopped me in the hallway.
00:14:01Miss Lark,
00:14:02don't go believing that sob story.
00:14:05Nova looked down at me with disdain.
00:14:08That ambush story?
00:14:10Him being forced to mate with me?
00:14:14All of it was a lie, Damien made up.
00:14:16He was just afraid you'd ruin his future.
00:14:19I thought spending seven years of my life being lied to by the whole Vos family was rock bottom.
00:14:25I was wrong.
00:14:29Don't be naive, Miss Lark.
00:14:32She kept talking.
00:14:36There was no rogue ambush.
00:14:38He came to my father's door himself,
00:14:41knelt in the rain all night,
00:14:43and swore his loyalty
00:14:44just to get into the inner circle.
00:14:47Mating with me
00:14:48was his idea.
00:14:50He called it proving his loyalty.
00:14:54He knows you too well.
00:14:56He knows you're soft-hearted,
00:14:58and you keep your promises.
00:15:01This whole tragic forced marriage act
00:15:04was a scam he and his mother cooked up.
00:15:07He just wanted a free caretaker,
00:15:10and he wanted you to feel so guilty
00:15:11that you'd come to the city and quietly be his secret mate.
00:15:17She stepped closer,
00:15:18her strong perfume choking my throat.
00:15:20Damien signed a formal mate pact with me.
00:15:23I am his only legal mate,
00:15:26the mother of his only legal children.
00:15:28Stay in line,
00:15:29and your seven years of free labor
00:15:32might still earn you a little support.
00:15:34The Vos family can't afford to keep you.
00:15:40If you even think about stepping out of line,
00:15:43the Northern Pacts have plenty of ways
00:15:45to make sure you can't survive anywhere.
00:15:48I looked at this proud,
00:15:49pure-blood female wolf standing before me.
00:15:52I felt no anger,
00:15:54just as disgust for Damien.
00:15:55I gave a faint smile.
00:15:57Don't worry, Miss Blackwood,
00:15:59I don't touch trash.
00:16:01Two days later,
00:16:02on the road out of Greywood,
00:16:04I took off the Vos family heirloom
00:16:06moonstone bracelet from my wrist
00:16:08and held it out to Nova.
00:16:10Mira's face changed.
00:16:12She reached out to Kraut to grab it.
00:16:16Yuna,
00:16:17that bracelet is a Vos family symbol
00:16:21meant for the Deputy Alpha's rightful mate.
00:16:24What are you doing?
00:16:27I stepped back and placed the bracelet
00:16:29in Outnova's palm.
00:16:34Aunt Mira,
00:16:36the whole town of Greywood knows what that bracelet means.
00:16:40You're about to move to the main city.
00:16:43Keeping this on me would hurt Damien's reputation.
00:16:47It's right to give it back.
00:16:49Best for everyone.
00:16:51Nova looked at Aunt Mira with a smug expression.
00:16:54She put the bracelet on in front of me,
00:16:57rubbing her fingers over it again and again.
00:17:00That was a wolf's way of marking possession with her scent.
00:17:04Yuna is very sensible, Auntie.
00:17:06I'll hold on to this for Damien for now.
00:17:09Mira was furious,
00:17:10but she couldn't argue.
00:17:12Nova's rank was far above her.
00:17:14She could only force a smile.
00:17:16I turned to Aunt Damien.
00:17:18He was wearing the bone pendant I had carved for him.
00:17:21Close to his skin.
00:17:23Mr. Voss.
00:17:25That bone was carved with my first page from healing.
00:17:28I made it with my own hands.
00:17:31My soul mark is carved on the back.
00:17:33It doesn't suit your status anymore.
00:17:35Give it back.
00:17:36Damien raised his hand to protect his chest.
00:17:39Yuna,
00:17:40you're calling me Mr. Voss now?
00:17:42What is wrong with you?
00:17:46Just say my name.
00:17:48My expression was calm,
00:17:49with a small smile.
00:17:51Better to keep some distance and boundaries.
00:17:53Don't want to start rumors.
00:17:55Damien sighed,
00:17:56but still refused to take off the bone pendant.
00:17:58I'm keeping this.
00:17:59It's proof that you stayed with me through the hard times.
00:18:02I'm keeping it.
00:18:04When you're done with your business in Greywood and come to the city after the blood moon,
00:18:08I'll give it back to you then.
00:18:10Even at this moment, he still believed I would come back.
00:18:14That I would be his secret mate, hidden in the shadows.
00:18:19I watched their car drive away.
00:18:24I didn't look back.
00:18:26I turned and went inside, picked up the bag I had already packed, and left for good.
00:18:31Silver Ridge, where Caleb's patrol base was.
00:18:36Winter in the south wasn't bone-chillingly cold.
00:18:40The sun could always break through the clouds.
00:18:44My savings were small.
00:18:46I rented a little house with a yard, a few miles from the patrol base.
00:18:54The landlord was a retired wolf warrior.
00:18:57When he heard I was waiting for a patrol team member to return,
00:19:00he helped me carry my bags inside.
00:19:03Young lady, which member are you waiting for?
00:19:06That mission of theirs, it's extremely dangerous.
00:19:10I handed him a bottle of water and said softly,
00:19:13Caleb Hunter.
00:19:14Caleb Hunter!
00:19:16The old man froze.
00:19:17Then he slapped his knee and handed me back my entire deposit.
00:19:21You're Hunter's mate?
00:19:23Take your money.
00:19:25Hunter is a stand-up wolf, a good one.
00:19:28The year before last, during that forest fire,
00:19:32he almost died saving a litter of pups.
00:19:35You can stay in this house as long as you want.
00:19:38Consider it a wedding gift from me to you both.
00:19:44I held that money in my hand,
00:19:46and a warm feeling rose in my chest.
00:19:50Caleb usually acted so carefree, cocky, and proud.
00:19:54But here on the border, he had built a solid life for himself.
00:19:59During the days of waiting, I did have doubts.
00:20:02He had begged me with red eyes to give him two weeks.
00:20:05But I had been trapped by Damien for seven years.
00:20:08I was afraid Caleb was just acting on impulse.
00:20:12But I let it go quickly.
00:20:15Even if he changed his mind,
00:20:17I had already escaped the Voss family nightmare.
00:20:20I could start over anywhere.
00:20:22I went to the fabric store and bought red velvet material.
00:20:26I sewed my own ceremonial robe for the mating ceremony.
00:20:29In those seven years with At Damien,
00:20:32I never had a ceremonial robe.
00:20:33I never even had a real anniversary.
00:20:36The old lady Marta back home used to call me foolish.
00:20:40She said I was good-looking,
00:20:42a professional Omega healing apprentice.
00:20:44Yet I was wasting my life as a free maid for a wolf
00:20:47with no status or formal pack.
00:20:50I used to argue with her,
00:20:51telling her Damien had a bright future.
00:20:54Now I understood.
00:20:56Marta had been right all along.
00:20:57She was the one who helped me escape Greywood in secret.
00:21:01She found a real estate agent for me.
00:21:04She deliberately walked past my house every day
00:21:06so the neighbors would think I was still home.
00:21:10She covered for me for almost two weeks.
00:21:15The more you fear something, the more it happens.
00:21:18Caleb still hadn't returned.
00:21:20On the third day,
00:21:21a black SUV with city license plates
00:21:24screeched to a halt in front of my yard.
00:21:26The door flew open.
00:21:27Damien stepped out,
00:21:29covered in dust and the cold of winter.
00:21:34His hair was a mess.
00:21:36His eyes were bloodshot.
00:21:38His tie was gone.
00:21:40He didn't look at all like the next deputy alpha
00:21:42of the blood-flang pack.
00:21:44Yuna Lark,
00:21:45you're getting bolder and bolder.
00:21:47He stormed into the yard and grabbed my wrist,
00:21:50squeezing so hard it felt like he might crush the bone.
00:21:53You said you were staying in Greywood
00:21:55to deal with the property.
00:21:57The agent told me that house was listed for sale two weeks ago.
00:22:00You canceled your phone number?
00:22:02Blocked me on everything?
00:22:03I had the pack search all over Greywood for you.
00:22:06I thought a rogue pack had taken you.
00:22:08You know that?
00:22:09His chest heaved.
00:22:10He was furious.
00:22:11But underneath it all,
00:22:13there was fear.
00:22:14He held my wrist in a death grip.
00:22:16I didn't struggle.
00:22:18I just looked at him calmly.
00:22:20Mr. Voss,
00:22:22you came all this way just to yell at me?
00:22:24Our mate bond is already broken.
00:22:26I don't owe the Voss family anything.
00:22:29Where I go,
00:22:30whether I live or die,
00:22:31is none of your business.
00:22:32Those words cut him deep.
00:22:35None of my business?
00:22:40He yanked me toward him,
00:22:41his eyes turning red.
00:22:44Seven years!
00:22:46We were together for seven years!
00:22:50You think a piece of paper can wipe that all away?
00:22:54Yuna, I know you've been wronged.
00:22:56I know I lied to you.
00:22:58I'm sorry, okay?
00:22:59I was wrong.
00:23:01Come back with me.
00:23:04I'll buy you a mansion,
00:23:05the best part of the city.
00:23:07Everything Nova has,
00:23:08I can give you except the title.
00:23:09Everything.
00:23:10I swear.
00:23:12I'll spend every full moon with you.
00:23:17It's just a house.
00:23:19I couldn't help but laugh.
00:23:23He thought I was negotiating.
00:23:26If a house on the ridge isn't enough,
00:23:30I'll get you an estate with a private courtyard.
00:23:33Yuna,
00:23:34Yuna,
00:23:34the Blackwood Pack saved me.
00:23:36I can't betray them.
00:23:39But the one I love is still you.
00:23:42Shut up, Damien.
00:23:43I pushed him away and stepped back.
00:23:46Stop saying you owe them.
00:23:49It's disgusting.
00:23:50You think you're so clever?
00:23:52Nova told me everything.
00:23:54You're the one who approached the Blackwood Pack.
00:23:59You knelt in the rain all night begging to get into their inner circle.
00:24:04His face turned pale.
00:24:06He opened his mouth,
00:24:07but no words came out.
00:24:09You knew Nova's pack would never share a mate.
00:24:13So you had your mother pretend to be paralyzed to trap me here for seven years,
00:24:18working for free.
00:24:20And now you want to act heartbroken?
00:24:22Are you sad about losing me?
00:24:25Or sad that you'll never again have someone so devoted to wait on your mother for free?
00:24:31Looking at his pale face,
00:24:33I cut the last bit of feeling I had for him.
00:24:36The Yuna you remember died the moment I heard that phone call.
00:24:40Get off my property.
00:24:43My mate is coming back from his mission soon.
00:24:45I don't want him to get the wrong idea.
00:24:47His face twisted.
00:24:50Mate?
00:24:51What mate?
00:24:52Who is it?
00:24:53I brushed the dust off my coat.
00:24:56Just a Border Patrol captain.
00:24:59You wouldn't know him.
00:25:00We're not even from the same world.
00:25:02Leave on your own.
00:25:03He lost it completely.
00:25:05His voice shot up.
00:25:09Yuna, have you lost your mind?
00:25:13You're giving up the next deputy alpha of the blood-flang bank pack for some nobody border patrol grunt with
00:25:19no power or status?
00:25:21With his salary, what kind of life can he give you?
00:25:24You're going back to scraping by and pinching pennies?
00:25:28I looked at him and thought it was absolutely ridiculous.
00:25:32Scraping by?
00:25:35I worked for free for seven years taking care of your fake paralyzed mother and you think I'm afraid of
00:25:40being poor?
00:25:42Damien, don't judge everyone by your own filthy standards.
00:25:47He doesn't have your power or your status, but he has a clean heart.
00:25:52He would never do the disgusting things you did.
00:25:55You!
00:25:56He couldn't get a word out.
00:25:58Then his face changed.
00:26:01He smiled.
00:26:02Dark.
00:26:04He smoothed down his coat.
00:26:08Yuna, I won't argue with you.
00:26:09I can forgive you.
00:26:11But if you insist on staying on this foolish path,
00:26:17don't blame me for what happens next.
00:26:21He pulled out his phone, his face showing a kind of extreme arrogance I had never seen on him before.
00:26:28Southern Border Patrol Commander Renwick just got backing from the Blackwood Pack.
00:26:36One phone call from me.
00:26:38Your little captain will be fired before dawn.
00:26:43Play nice, and I might even let him get a severance package.
00:26:46I had never been a violent wolf.
00:26:51But his words lit a fire in me.
00:26:54He was despicable, and now he wanted to use pureblood family power to destroy Caleb.
00:26:59Caleb who had fought his way up with nothing but his own blood and sweat.
00:27:03I picked up the silver dagger Caleb had left for me from the porch table.
00:27:10The silver blade hissed against my skin, burning a mark into it.
00:27:16The stinging scent of silver triggered Damien's animal instincts.
00:27:20He stepped back, involuntarily.
00:27:23Damien, try it.
00:27:26Touch him, and we both go down.
00:27:31I stared him down.
00:27:35My life may be worthless, but you've just been confirmed by the council as the candidate for Deputy Alpha.
00:27:42If word gets out tomorrow that the Voss family candidate drove his former mate to suicide,
00:27:49do you think the Blackwood Pack will keep you around?
00:27:52He never expected me to be this extreme.
00:27:55In his eyes, I was always the meek, submissive Omega who never fought back.
00:28:01The air was thick with the smell of burning silver.
00:28:05He quickly raised his hands and stepped back.
00:28:08Yuna, put the knife down.
00:28:10You're crazy.
00:28:12Just then, the sound of a vehicle came from the yard entrance.
00:28:19The car door opened.
00:28:21A tall, straight man in uniform walked over, his powerful Alpha presence filling the space.
00:28:26A squad of guards followed behind him.
00:28:29Damien recognized him.
00:28:31His pupils contracted.
00:28:36He forced a smile and walked up to him.
00:28:39Uh, Commander Holt, what brings you here?
00:28:44At the Pack Council meeting last week, I just...
00:28:48Holt ignored him completely.
00:28:50His eyes landed on me.
00:28:52On the dagger in my hand.
00:28:54On the wound on my neck.
00:28:56He frowned.
00:28:58Seeing this, out Damien quickly stepped in front of me.
00:29:02Commander, don't mind her.
00:29:04She's my distant cousin, just having a little emotional fit.
00:29:07It's just a family matter.
00:29:09Why would you be in a place like this?
00:29:11Mr. Voss.
00:29:13I'm here on official business.
00:29:17Holt walked around him and softened his voice.
00:29:20Are you Miss Yuna Lark?
00:29:25I nodded.
00:29:26I still had the dagger in my hand.
00:29:28The burn on my neck still smoking.
00:29:29Holt breathed a sigh of relief.
00:29:31A look of relief in his eyes.
00:29:33Then I'm in the right place.
00:29:34I'm Commander Holt of the Southern Border Patrol, Caleb Hunter's direct superior.
00:29:40Hearing Caleb's name, my heart stopped for a second.
00:29:43Damien looked confused and quickly cut in.
00:29:46Commander, there must be a misunderstanding.
00:29:48My cousin has always been in Greywood.
00:29:50She has nothing to do with your patrol team.
00:29:52That Caleb must have been harassing her.
00:29:54Holt's head snapped toward him, his powerful alpha presence silencing Damien before he could finish.
00:29:59Mr. Voss, watch your words.
00:30:02Warrior Caleb Hunter just completed a 15-hour cross-border battle.
00:30:08He rescued over 20 captive Omikas and pups from rogue wolves.
00:30:12He was severely wounded, lost control of his shifting ability, and had to be airlifted to the main city healer
00:30:20base.
00:30:21The council has decided to award him the highest warrior medal.
00:30:26He asked for no land.
00:30:28No bounty.
00:30:29His only request was a mate-bond decree.
00:30:36Holt took a sealed letter from his briefcase.
00:30:39The seal was red wax stamped with the moon goddess.
00:30:43He handed the letter to me.
00:30:46Miss Yona Lark, before Caleb went into surgery, he specifically asked me to deliver this to you in person.
00:30:55He said, even if he doesn't wake up or if it takes a long time, he won't let anyone hurt
00:31:01you.
00:31:06Holt looked at Aunt Damien, whose face had turned white.
00:31:12The council has completed the bloodline verification.
00:31:16All members voted unanimously for approval.
00:31:20As of today, Miss At-Yuna Lark is the legally recognized mate of a decorated warrior, protected by the council.
00:31:28Mr. Voss, were you just talking about having Commander Rentrick fire one of his men?
00:31:40Shall I call the council right now, in front of you, to confirm the consequences?
00:31:45I covered my mouth, tears streaming down my face.
00:31:50That carey, wild man, gravely wounded, had fought with everything he had to win the pack's highest honor.
00:31:59Just to give me a protection no one could touch.
00:32:02Damien stood frozen, stepping back.
00:32:04All his wealth, all his status, seemed ridiculous and laughable in front of that blood-stained metal and the sealed
00:32:11decree.
00:32:13Impossible. How can this be?
00:32:16His lips trembled uncontrollably.
00:32:20Holt's voice was ice cold.
00:32:23Mr. Voss, if there's nothing else, please leave.
00:32:26Damien moved his feet mechanically.
00:32:28He couldn't even be bothered to keep up appearances.
00:32:31He climbed into his SUV and fled in a panic.
00:32:36Caleb was unconscious for three days.
00:32:40The day he was transferred to a regular room.
00:32:42We signed the mate-bond decree by his hospital bed.
00:32:53He still had bandages on his head.
00:32:56His hand holding the pen trembled slightly.
00:33:00But he couldn't stop smiling, full of joy.
00:33:06Yuna, the council has stamped it.
00:33:08You're stuck with me for life.
00:33:10No take-backs.
00:33:17After Caleb recovered and returned to duty, the patrol base held our mating ceremony for us.
00:33:23No fancy hotel.
00:33:24No fake guests.
00:33:26Just the full moon overhead and the howling blessings of his entire team, loud enough to shake the sky.
00:33:36That simple ceremony was a hundred times better than any grand celebration Damien had ever promised.
00:33:45The next year, I moved into the family quarters at the base.
00:33:50Life wasn't luxurious.
00:33:52I opened a small bakery.
00:33:55Every day, surrounded by the smell of fresh bread, I waited for my love to come home safe.
00:34:02Sometimes I heard news about Damien from old acquaintances in Greywood.
00:34:09Nova used the Blackwood family's power to completely side-side at Damien in the bloodfin pack.
00:34:16He became a puppet deputy alpha with no real authority.
00:34:21She openly flaunted her affairs, doing whatever she wanted.
00:34:30Damien was too afraid to speak up.
00:34:32The slightest resistance would get all his titles stripped.
00:34:36Mira had faked her paralysis for seven years, but not long after moving to the city, Nova crushed her completely.
00:34:44This time, she really fell ill and was bed-tidden for good.
00:34:51Damien was trapped in a nightmare, fighting at home, struggling in the pack.
00:34:57He aged quickly.
00:34:59The proud, confident man who had strutted into the city was gone.
00:35:06Hearing all of this, I felt nothing inside, not even a trace of satisfaction.
00:35:14Every choice has its price.
00:35:17That was their ending, none of my concern.
00:35:22I turned off the oven and started packing orders.
00:35:29Caleb's squad was in training rotation.
00:35:32His appetite had been off lately.
00:35:36I made his favorite food.
00:35:38I was tying ribbons on gift boxes, when suddenly a pair of rough, large hands wrapped around my waist from
00:35:46behind.
00:35:47He was in his training uniform, his chin resting on my shoulder.
00:35:52Boss Lady Lark, the healer said you're carrying twins.
00:35:56No overworking.
00:35:59If I catch you in the kitchen again, I'm throwing the oven out.
00:36:05I laughed, turned around, and pinched his nose.
00:36:10Like I wouldn't take good care of my mate?
00:36:13At 5.30 in the morning, before the bass's morning whistle, I was already awake.
00:36:18Not because of the baby's kicking.
00:36:21They'd been quiet lately.
00:36:23Probably intimidated by their father's nightly lectures to my belly.
00:36:27Every time before Caleb went on a mission, he'd lie down with his head on my belly and lecture the
00:36:32two kids.
00:36:34I'm your father, Caleb Hunter.
00:36:38Here are the rules.
00:36:39One, don't kick your mother.
00:36:41Two, don't be picky eaters.
00:36:44Three, when you grow up, you both join the Border Patrol.
00:36:48I always told him he was being ridiculous.
00:36:51The kids weren't even born yet, and he'd already planned out three generations of Border Warriors.
00:36:57He didn't care at all.
00:36:59The Hunter bloodline is meant to guard the border.
00:37:04Today was the last day of his current training rotation, and also our second anniversary as mates.
00:37:10I got up early and quiet.
00:37:12Six months pregnant but still moving quickly through the kitchen, baking his favorite steak.
00:37:18I'd marinated the meat last night.
00:37:21The whole house smelled of meat.
00:37:25Then I heard a noise from the yard.
00:37:29I peeked out the window and couldn't help but laugh.
00:37:37Caleb was hunched over, sneaking into the yard, carrying a stack of seven or eight boxes, big and small.
00:37:44I was honestly curious how he managed to carry all that back from the base by himself.
00:37:51Captain Hunter, did you empty the base supply warehouse?
00:37:55Hey!
00:37:56He jumped.
00:37:57The boxes almost fell.
00:37:59He quickly turned around.
00:38:02Why are you awake?
00:38:03The healer told you to sleep more.
00:38:05I leaned against the doorframe.
00:38:07You made so much noise, you woke up the birds in the yard.
00:38:10How could I sleep?
00:38:14He set the boxes down and stepped inside in two strides.
00:38:19He looked me over from head to toe, making sure I was fine.
00:38:23Then reached out and gently touched my belly.
00:38:27Hey there, boys.
00:38:29Miss your dad?
00:38:30How do you know they're boys?
00:38:32Maybe they're girls.
00:38:33He grinned.
00:38:35Even better.
00:38:36They'll take after you, beautiful.
00:38:39I'll protect the three of you for life.
00:38:41I pushed him toward the bathroom.
00:38:44Go wash up.
00:38:45Food will be ready soon.
00:38:46He stood still and pulled a small box from his pocket, tucking it into my apron pocket.
00:38:55What's that?
00:38:56Open it.
00:38:58I opened the box.
00:39:01Inside was a ring carved from a wolf's fang.
00:39:05This fang came from the first rogue alpha had hunted alone.
00:39:10The carving wasn't exactly delicate,
00:39:13but every edge had been polished smooth by his own hands.
00:39:18Made it...
00:39:20during training in my spare time?
00:39:25Caleb scratched the back of his head, a little awkward.
00:39:28It's not as nice as your ring, but...
00:39:31I slipped the fang ring onto my finger,
00:39:34right next to the council-certified mate ring.
00:39:38This one is better, I said.
00:39:40You made it with your own hands.
00:39:43It's one of a kind.
00:39:45He stood there quietly for a moment.
00:39:47Then he pulled me into his arms.
00:39:53His chin with timeth.
00:39:55His rested on top of my head.
00:39:58His voice was rough.
00:40:00Yuna,
00:40:01I must have saved up a lifetime of good luck in my past life
00:40:04to meet you in this one.
00:40:06I leaned into his chest and smiled.
00:40:09Then you'd better cherish it.
00:40:11Good luck doesn't strike twice.
00:40:14The food was ready.
00:40:15Caleb ate every last bite,
00:40:17even drinking all the broth.
00:40:21I sat across the table from him.
00:40:24Watching him.
00:40:26My thoughts drifting back to Greywood.
00:40:29I used to cook for Damien, too.
00:40:31I used to sit and watch him eat.
00:40:34But he never said thank you.
00:40:37He never hugged me from behind.
00:40:40He never asked if I was tired.
00:40:43After eating, he'd just wipe his mouth and ask.
00:40:47Where's the bill for this month?
00:40:48I kept careful records of every expense.
00:40:52Groceries.
00:40:54Mira's medicine.
00:40:55Utilities.
00:40:56He'd flip through it quickly, nod, and say,
00:41:01You worked hard.
00:41:03Then he'd leave for the main city the next morning.
00:41:08I used to think that was the price of love.
00:41:10Now I understood completely.
00:41:13That was never love.
00:41:15It was just me giving and giving.
00:41:18Maintaining a transaction that would never be repaid.
00:41:24What are you thinking about?
00:41:28Caleb waved his hand in front of my face.
00:41:31I didn't expect you to be such a smooth talker now.
00:41:33I blinked, coming back to the present.
00:41:36When we first met, you weren't this slick.
00:41:39He pretended to be wronged.
00:41:41I was playing the long game.
00:41:45Fine, fine.
00:41:47Strategic mastermind.
00:41:48I stood up to clear the dishes.
00:41:51He snatched the plates away.
00:41:53Sit.
00:41:54I'll do it.
00:41:56I watched him fumble around at the sink.
00:42:00Those hands could knock out an adult male wolf with one punch.
00:42:04But they couldn't wring out a dishcloth.
00:42:07Water went everywhere.
00:42:10But in that moment, he was the most dazzling sight in my eyes.
00:42:18My bakery business grew.
00:42:22I rented a new shop across from the family quarters and hired two female wolves whose mates were stationed locally.
00:42:32That afternoon, I just took the last batch batch of cookies out of the oven when the shop door's wind
00:42:37chime rang.
00:42:47I froze.
00:42:52It was old Mrs. Marta.
00:42:54She had lived on the same street in Greywood for 30 years.
00:42:59She always said I was too stubborn and naive.
00:43:03She was the one who helped me cover my tracks when I sold the house and left.
00:43:07Yuna!
00:43:09Yuna!
00:43:11She took my hands.
00:43:13Her eyes read.
00:43:16I finally found you.
00:43:20You left without a word.
00:43:23I asked so many people before I got your address.
00:43:27My heart tightened.
00:43:29I pulled her to a seat.
00:43:33Marta?
00:43:35Sit down.
00:43:36Let me get you some water.
00:43:40Marta sat down and looked around the shop, clicking her tongue.
00:43:46Look at you now.
00:43:47Did you build all this yourself?
00:43:49Just a small business.
00:43:51Enough to get by.
00:43:52I handed her the water.
00:43:54Are you down south for a trip, or...?
00:43:57A trip?
00:43:58No, I came all this way to find you.
00:44:01She pulled a brown envelope from her bag and put it on the counter.
00:44:06The final payment for your house.
00:44:08The agent transferred it to my account.
00:44:11I brought it to you.
00:44:14I looked at her.
00:44:16You came all this way just for that?
00:44:19You could have just sent me a transfer.
00:44:21You cancelled your number.
00:44:23How was I supposed to contact you?
00:44:27She pretended to glare at me.
00:44:29Then her voice softened.
00:44:35More importantly, I was worried about you.
00:44:37You left so suddenly.
00:44:40I've been thinking about you.
00:44:42Warmth filled my heart.
00:44:44I squeezed her hand.
00:44:48Marta, I'm doing well.
00:44:50Really well.
00:44:53She looked around and lowered her voice.
00:44:56That boss boy hasn't bothered you again, has he?
00:45:00He came once.
00:45:01I chased him off.
00:45:03Good!
00:45:05She slapped the counter.
00:45:10That ungrateful brat.
00:45:12You don't know how badly he's doing now!
00:45:15I smiled and cut her off.
00:45:18Marta, I don't want to hear about him anymore.
00:45:21His life, good or bad, has nothing to do with me.
00:45:25She paused.
00:45:27Then smiled.
00:45:29Her eyes getting red.
00:45:31Right, right.
00:45:32Don't talk about him.
00:45:35My Yuna only looks forward, never back.
00:45:41The bell rang again.
00:45:46Caleb walked in wearing his training uniform, full of energy.
00:45:50Babe!
00:45:51Training ended early.
00:45:52I'm here to take you home.
00:45:53Oh, we have a guest?
00:45:54I introduced them.
00:45:56This is Mrs. Marta, an old neighbor from Greywood.
00:45:59She helped me a lot back then.
00:46:05Caleb immediately straightened up and gave a serious salute.
00:46:09Hello, ma'am.
00:46:10I'm Yuna's mate, Caleb Hunter.
00:46:12Thank you for taking care of her.
00:46:16Marta laughed so hard, she wiped away tears.
00:46:21This boy has such a good character.
00:46:24And so handsome.
00:46:27Yuna, you finally chose the right one this time.
00:46:33Caleb grinned from ear to ear.
00:46:35He leaned down and whispered to me.
00:46:39Babe.
00:46:41She says I'm better than that other guy.
00:46:44I rolled my eyes.
00:46:48She was just being polite.
00:46:51Don't let it go to your head.
00:46:52He laughed and headed to the back.
00:46:59I'll go cut some fruit.
00:47:03Marta watched him quietly, then gently squeezed my hand.
00:47:08Yuna, you really chose right this time.
00:47:14He looks at you with real care.
00:47:17Real value.
00:47:19That Voss boy never did.
00:47:22When he looked at you, he just saw free labor.
00:47:26I didn't argue.
00:47:28There was no need.
00:47:30Seven years of the past were just a nightmare.
00:47:33After the nightmare, life was new.
00:47:36Sunlight streamed through the window, falling on Caleb.
00:47:40On my belly.
00:47:41On Marta's smiling face.
00:47:45In that moment, I felt richer and happier than any female deputy alpha in the world.
00:47:56I'd been with Caleb for two full years before I found out he had a sister.
00:48:04That day, an SUV drove right up to my door, stopping just two steps away.
00:48:11Yuna!
00:48:13Yuna!
00:48:14She came in loud, her voice even bigger than at Caleb's.
00:48:20I'm Jules Hunter, Caleb's sister.
00:48:22The real deal.
00:48:24I looked at the girl in front of Trunthot, swearing a leather jacket with her hair in a high
00:48:28hinaili full of energy.
00:48:30Then I looked at Caleb, who had a guilty look on his face.
00:48:36Yuna, I was going to tell you, it's just...
00:48:39What kind of work?
00:48:41Jules plopped down on the sofa and crossed her legs casually.
00:48:48Don't listen to him making it sound so mysterious.
00:48:51I'm a bounty hunter.
00:48:53I catch rogue wolves who cross into our territory, that's all.
00:49:00Bounty hunter?
00:49:02She nodded proudly.
00:49:04I have a private contract with the Northern Pack Alliance.
00:49:08Any rogue wolf crosses the border, I catch them and bring them in.
00:49:12Last month, I caught three.
00:49:15All alive, all tied up tight, delivered them to the council myself.
00:49:22I looked at her and couldn't help but smile.
00:49:25She and her brother had the exact same personality.
00:49:29Jules had taken her annual leave specifically to come south and meet me.
00:49:34She stayed for two weeks.
00:49:36She spent every day at my bakery, learning to make pastries for my employees.
00:49:41Unfortunately, she had zero baking talent.
00:49:44The cookies she made were hard enough to break teeth.
00:49:52Yuna, I guess these hands are only good for holding blades.
00:49:56She poked at a tray of burnt cookies and sighed.
00:50:05I held back a smile.
00:50:09Just keep practicing.
00:50:10You'll get better.
00:50:15Forget it.
00:50:16She washed her hands, then leaned close and lowered her voice.
00:50:22My brother said there used to be some asshole who treated you badly.
00:50:26Finally, I was quiet for a moment, then nodded slightly.
00:50:35That was a long time ago.
00:50:39Is that asshole still around?
00:50:42Her eyes glinted, her energy sharp.
00:50:45Want me to go deal with him?
00:50:47I've ripped out a rogue's throat with my bare hands.
00:50:51Jules!
00:50:52Caleb's warning voice came from the doorway.
00:50:56She stuck her tongue out at him and obediently reined in her energy.
00:51:00I shook my head.
00:51:03No need.
00:51:04He can't affect me anymore.
00:51:06She looked at me for a long moment, then gave me a thumbs up.
00:51:12Yuna, you're the coolest wolf I've ever met.
00:51:15My brother is so damn lucky to have married you.
00:51:19When that got back to at Caleb, he was insufferably proud for a whole week.
00:51:28It was the 10th day of Caleb's training.
00:51:31I was five months pregnant.
00:51:36I had just finished the last batch of cookies for the shop.
00:51:40My new employee, Anya, was helping me pack them.
00:51:44She kept glancing at my belly, until she finally couldn't hold back.
00:51:51Boss Lark, Captain Hunter is way too intense.
00:51:54You're already this far along, and he's still away training.
00:51:57What if you go into labor early?
00:52:00I shoved a cookie in her mouth.
00:52:06He's guarding the pack, not out playing around.
00:52:09And my due date is still months away.
00:52:12No need to rush.
00:52:17Anya chewed the cookie and muttered,
00:52:20I mean, that's true.
00:52:22But every other pregnant mate at the base has their partner glued to their side, pampering them.
00:52:29Only you, pregnant and running a whole shop by yourself.
00:52:33I didn't argue.
00:52:39Some happiness doesn't need to be explained to outsiders.
00:52:48The night before he left for training,
00:52:51at Belay's Caleb spent Caleb a full hour massaging my swollen feet.
00:52:56At four in the morning,
00:52:58he got up early and stocked the storage room with enough flour, sugar, and butter to last a month,
00:53:04all neatly arranged.
00:53:07When he left, he turned at the door and looked at me for a long moment.
00:53:14Yuna, wait for me to come back.
00:53:18I waved at him.
00:53:21Go on!
00:53:24The SUV drove off slowly.
00:53:26I stood in the yard and watched until it disappeared over the horizon.
00:53:30In that moment, I felt more grounded and secure than ever before.
00:53:36There are a thousand ways love can look.
00:53:39Damien's love was a thousand sweet words,
00:53:42but he couldn't even make me a hot breakfast.
00:53:47Caleb's love was never spoken out loud,
00:53:49but he knew my schedule and my comfort better than I did.
00:53:55At three in the afternoon, the shop was quiet.
00:53:58I was sitting at the register, sorting through bills.
00:54:02The wind chime rang.
00:54:06I didn't look up.
00:54:08Welcome!
00:54:09Buy two cookies, get one free.
00:54:13Yuna!
00:54:16A hosky, exhausted voice, full of complicated emotions.
00:54:24I looked up.
00:54:25Damien Voss was standing in the doorway.
00:54:28He looked ten years older than when we last fought.
00:54:33His hair was gray at the Tims.
00:54:36His eyes were sunken.
00:54:37The powerful alpha presence that could intimidate lower-ranked wolves
00:54:41was completely gone.
00:54:44I looked back down at my bills.
00:54:48You're lost.
00:54:49This is the south, not the main city.
00:54:52He stood there, staring at me, his throat bobbing.
00:54:58Yuna, I knew you weren't dead.
00:55:00I looked for you for six months.
00:55:07Looking for me for what?
00:55:10I still didn't look up.
00:55:14Aren't we even?
00:55:15Even?
00:55:19His laugh was dry and raspy.
00:55:24You threatened to kill yourself to drive me away,
00:55:27then turned around and married a border captain.
00:55:30Now you're carrying his child.
00:55:33And me?
00:55:37Nova turned me into a puppet.
00:55:40She and her beta lover control the whole blood-flang pack.
00:55:46My mother is sick in bed, saying your name every day.
00:55:51His voice cracked.
00:55:56Yuna, I finally understand.
00:55:59I get it all now.
00:56:02I shouldn't have lied to you.
00:56:05I shouldn't have made Mira fake her paralysis.
00:56:08I shouldn't have groveled to the Blackwood pack for the deputy position.
00:56:12But I had no choice back then.
00:56:15I had nothing.
00:56:17If you stayed with me, you would have suffered.
00:56:21I wanted to get on my feet first, then come back and make it up to you.
00:56:26I finally looked up at the man I had loved for seven years.
00:56:32His face was aged.
00:56:35His body hangered.
00:56:38All the light I used to be obsessed with was gone.
00:56:44I closed the bill book and spoke in a flat, emotionless tone.
00:56:52Damien, you never really understood anything.
00:56:55You don't even know what you did wrong.
00:56:58What you call guilt is just regret that you failed.
00:57:02You're not sorry you hurt me.
00:57:05You're just sorry about how things turned out for you.
00:57:10You don't regret lying to me for seven years.
00:57:14You just regret not using me all the way, letting me get away.
00:57:19You didn't come here because you love me.
00:57:21You came because you saw that without you, I'm happier than you.
00:57:30His face went completely pale.
00:57:32Do you know how I survived those seven years?
00:57:35I stood up and looked at him across the counter.
00:57:38I woke up at five every morning.
00:57:41I turned your mother over, cleaned her, fed her, massaged her.
00:57:49When she was bored, she'd purposely dirty the bed and watch me clean it up again, again.
00:57:58The two days a year, year, you came home.
00:58:01I barely slept, waiting for your every command.
00:58:06I was on call 24-7, happy to be your maid, thinking that was love.
00:58:12And you?
00:58:14You showed up with your pure-blood mate and your two kids and told me you could give me everything
00:58:21except the title.
00:58:24Damien, don't you think that's disgusting?
00:58:27His eyes were bloodshot, his lips trembling violently.
00:58:31He couldn't say a word.
00:58:33I let out a breath.
00:58:36Enough.
00:58:38I don't want to dwell on the past anymore.
00:58:41Leave here.
00:58:42Don't come back.
00:58:46Yuna!
00:58:47He lunged at the counter and slammed his hand down on it.
00:58:52I've already ended things with Nova.
00:58:54I ended it myself.
00:58:55It's all over!
00:58:56She spent my money on her lovers.
00:58:59I caught her in the act.
00:59:00And she still took half my territory.
00:59:04I have nothing left now but my true heart.
00:59:07Come back to me.
00:59:09I'll give you anything you want.
00:59:11I looked at him and almost laughed.
00:59:15Damien, do you know why I chose Caleb?
00:59:18He stiffened.
00:59:19Not because he's a Border Patrol captain.
00:59:22Not because he has the highest warrior medal.
00:59:28Not because of the council-certified mate, Dietrich.
00:59:34I spoke slowly, each word clear.
00:59:38It's because he never makes me wait.
00:59:40He said he'd be back in two weeks.
00:59:43And he came back on time.
00:59:44He said he'd petition the council for a mate decree.
00:59:47And he did everything in his power to make it happen.
00:59:51He almost died in battle.
00:59:52And his last act before dying was to have his commander deliver the certification to protect me.
00:59:59And you?
01:00:00You made me wait seven years.
01:00:03And then you told me I wasn't worthy of a title.
01:00:05He opened his mouth, but in the end, had nothing to say.
01:00:10Just then, the wind chime rang.
01:00:14A tall, straight figure walked into the shop.
01:00:17His coat was covered in dust.
01:00:18His eyes were sharp and cold.
01:00:23It was Caleb.
01:00:25He completely ignored Aunt Damien.
01:00:27He walked straight to me, reached out, and touched my belly, frowning slightly.
01:00:34You've lost weight.
01:00:35Have you been eating properly?
01:00:39I smiled.
01:00:40The doctor said I'm actually a little heavy.
01:00:44I don't care.
01:00:46In my eyes, you're thin.
01:00:49He pulled a crumpled piece of paper from his pocket and slapped it on the counter.
01:00:56The rogue elimination and mission ended early.
01:00:59I took three days' leave.
01:01:04Come on.
01:01:05I'm taking you to the healer for a prenatal checkup.
01:01:08I looked at the paper.
01:01:10The moon goddess wax seal was clear and bright.
01:01:14It was the mate bond decreet.
01:01:17Why do you carry this around with you?
01:01:22He shrugged casually.
01:01:28For the healer's bloodline registration.
01:01:31Proof that we're legal mates.
01:01:33I couldn't help but laugh.
01:01:38Damien stood frozen to the spot.
01:01:40His face as pale as paper.
01:01:48Caleb finally turned to look at him.
01:01:50One eyebrow raised.
01:01:53Mr. Voss?
01:01:55Still here?
01:01:58What?
01:01:59Here to buy cookies?
01:02:03Buy two, get one free.
01:02:05Too bad I'm not selling to you.
01:02:07Damien's throat bobbed.
01:02:09He grinned him teeth.
01:02:14Caleb Hunter.
01:02:16Don't get too cocky.
01:02:18You think you've won?
01:02:20You're just a border patrol captain.
01:02:23With your salary?
01:02:25What kind of good life can you give her?
01:02:30Caleb didn't get angry.
01:02:32Instead, he chuckled softly.
01:02:35He put his arm around my shoulder,
01:02:38leaned down and kissed my forehead,
01:02:40then looked up at at Damien.
01:02:43Mr. Voss,
01:02:45do you know what a good life really means?
01:02:49It's having someone waiting for me at home when I come back from duty.
01:02:52It's someone cooking me a hot meal when I'm exhausted.
01:02:56It's knowing that when I fight to protect the pack,
01:02:59there's always someone behind me who truly cares about me.
01:03:03Did you ever give her even a shred of that?
01:03:09You were just some lowlife who barged into her life
01:03:18and stole her heart and her time.
01:03:22The last trace of color drained from Aunt Damien's face.
01:03:26Caleb stopped looking at him.
01:03:29He looked down at me, his gaze soft.
01:03:32Any cookies left?
01:03:33I'm hungry.
01:03:36I took a box of fresh cookies from under the counter
01:03:39and handed them to him.
01:03:41He took a bite,
01:03:42his eyes curving into a smile,
01:03:45warm and gentle.
01:03:46Yeah, that's the taste.
01:03:49He took my hand and walked out of the shop without looking back.
01:03:53As I reached the door,
01:03:55I glanced back out of habit.
01:03:57Damien was still frozen in place,
01:04:00empty and numb,
01:04:01completely lost.
01:04:02Sunlight streamed through the window,
01:04:05stretching his lonely shadow long.
01:04:08I didn't stop.
01:04:10I walked away.
01:04:15Walking down the street,
01:04:17Caleb held my hand with one hand
01:04:19and his cookie with the other.
01:04:21Oh, by the way,
01:04:23I've decided on the kids' names.
01:04:25Yeah?
01:04:27What names?
01:04:28Sorin for a boy.
01:04:32Sage for a girl.
01:04:35I was puzzled.
01:04:37Why those names?
01:04:39He looked down at me,
01:04:42his eyes soft and tender.
01:04:44Sorin means dawn.
01:04:46You broke free from the darkness of Greywood.
01:04:49You are the dawn.
01:04:51Sage means wisdom.
01:04:54I was clumsy and slow before,
01:04:57stupidly waiting for you in the south.
01:05:01I hope our kids are more clear-headed than we were.
01:05:05Boy or girl,
01:05:06those are the names.
01:05:07I was Caleb Wyatt for a long time,
01:05:10my eyes burning.
01:05:12This man wasn't good with words.
01:05:14He never said sweet things.
01:05:18But every single word came from deep love.
01:05:22I leaned gently against his shoulder
01:05:24and silently agreed.
01:05:26In the distance,
01:05:27the rumble of an SUV engine echoed.
01:05:31Once,
01:05:32that sound of people leaving and coming back terrified me.
01:05:35But now,
01:05:36I was afraid of nothing
01:05:38because I knew,
01:05:39no matter how far the road,
01:05:42he would always come to me,
01:05:44always return to me.
01:05:47The man beside me was like that.
01:05:50And the quiet,
01:05:51steady happiness I had finally found
01:05:53was like that too.
01:05:57The day the twins were born,
01:05:59Caleb was out on a mission.
01:06:01When I was wheeled back to my room after delivery,
01:06:04the first thing I saw
01:06:05was a small with figure A
01:06:06carved from a fang on the bedside table.
01:06:13A note was tucked under it.
01:06:17Babe,
01:06:18I'm sorry I couldn't be there with you.
01:06:20Are the babies okay?
01:06:22I've chosen the names.
01:06:23Sorin for a boy,
01:06:25Sage for a girl.
01:06:26When I come back,
01:06:27I'll take the three of you to see the border.
01:06:29Caleb.
01:06:32I held the note,
01:06:34laughing and crying at the same time.
01:06:37Sorin meant dawn.
01:06:39Sage meant wisdom.
01:06:43Caleb was never one to settle for a quiet life.
01:06:46Some wolves belonged to the wilderness
01:06:48and the horizon.
01:06:51Three months later,
01:06:53he got a long leave.
01:07:00He kept his promise.
01:07:01He took us up to the highest ridge on the border.
01:07:07I sat in the passenger seat holding the two babies,
01:07:11looking down at the sea of clouds
01:07:13and the winding rivers below.
01:07:17I thought back to that blizzard seven years ago.
01:07:21Back then I thought my life was over,
01:07:24trapped in a cage called waiting,
01:07:27waiting for someone who would never truly come home.
01:07:33And now I stood at the top of the mountain,
01:07:36holding my children,
01:07:38with the man who would risk his life to protect me by my side.
01:07:50Yuna?
01:07:51Yeah?
01:07:52Do you know what I thought the first time I saw you?
01:07:56What?
01:07:58He looked out at the horizon.
01:08:01The whole clear sky reflected in his eyes.
01:08:05I thought,
01:08:07you belong in this free wilderness.
01:08:11My heart tightened.
01:08:14Why?
01:08:17There's a light in your eyes that longs for freedom.
01:08:20Only a wolf who yearns to run wild has that look.
01:08:26I smiled,
01:08:27my eyes stinging a little.
01:08:33And you?
01:08:35Where do you belong?
01:08:37He thought for a moment,
01:08:39then answered simply and firmly.
01:08:41My home is you.
01:08:43Wherever you are,
01:08:45I'll be.
01:08:48The twins in the back seat babbled and fussed,
01:08:51probably annoyed at being ignored.
01:08:54Caleb chuckled.
01:08:56Okay, okay.
01:08:58Daddy's sorry.
01:08:59Come on, let me show you something pretty.
01:09:02He rolled down the window.
01:09:04The mountain breeze rushed in,
01:09:06fresh and clean.
01:09:09The warm sun covered our family of four,
01:09:12gentle and steady.
01:09:14I remembered what Marta once said.
01:09:18Some wolves belong to the wild.
01:09:21Some wolves belong only to you.
01:09:27I leaned gently against Caleb's shoulder,
01:09:30looked at the kids in the back seat,
01:09:31and smiled with my eyes.
01:09:37The best mate isn't the one you wait for.
01:09:39It's the one willing to run beside you.
01:09:43The truest happiness is finally meeting someone
01:09:47who is willing to walk into the future with you.
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