“What do you mean?” I repeated.
Brianna glanced around, making sure no one was listening.
“Cat, you really don’t know?” she whispered, using my old nickname. “Damon has been asking about you since college.”
My heart began to pound.
“Every time we had a class reunion, he’d ask how you were doing, if you’d found your Mate,” she continued. “We had dinner just last month, and he was still asking about you.”
“Then suddenly, the news breaks that you two are having a marriage alliance.”
I put down my teacup, my fingers trembling slightly.
“Are you saying… this alliance wasn’t just political?”
“Caterina, do you really think the Blackwood Pack, with their status, actually needs an alliance with the Silver Moon Pack?” Brianna’s eyes were filled with shock. “They’re the most powerful pack in North America!”
“Then why…”
“Because he wanted you,” she said bluntly. “My guess? He heard your bond with Rocco was broken and immediately made your father an offer he couldn’t refuse.”
“Using his business empire as leverage to offer the Silver Moon Pack development opportunities.
My head was spinning.
What did this mean?
Damon… had been waiting for me?
“Caterina, you look pale,” Brianna said, looking at me with concern.
“I just need to rest,” I managed a small smile. “The ceremony is tomorrow.”
After seeing Brianna off, I went back to my room.
My mind was in turmoil for the rest of the afternoon.
Her words replayed over and over again.
Damon had been waiting for me.
Since college.
That was… ten years ago?
For ten years, he had remained single.
Waiting for a she–wolf who already had a Mate.
Waiting until I finally broke free from that toxic relationship.
Night fell, and I tossed and turned in bed, unable to sleep.
At two in the morning, a gentle mind–link reached out to me.
[Caterina, are you still awake?)
It was Damon’s voice
1/3
【Can’t sleep,] I replied.
[Nervous?]
【A little. Damon, can I ask you a question?)
[Of course.]
【Why… why did you choose this alliance with me?]
There was a long silence on the mind–link.
【Caterina, do you remember the first time we
met?]
