ROXIE

I stand frozen on the sidewalk, staring at the car.

Kayden’s voice pulls me back. “Luna Roxie, it’s cold out. Please, get in.” I snap out of it and move toward the back door, pulling it open.

I used to drive myself everywhere—I rarely ride in Ravi’s car anymore. Can barely remember the last time I was inside it. I have this vague memory of the back seat having a classic black starlit ceiling, which had suited his cold personality perfectly.

But when I climb in, everything’s different.

The ceiling isn’t black anymore. The stars have been replaced with a pattern of blue roses. I pause.

Blue roses. Iris’s favorite. I remember the dress she wore to Luna Celine’s birthday party— covered in those exact blue roses.

Then I notice a light blue makeup bag on the seat, filled with high-end cosmetics. I haven’t worn makeup in months. These clearly aren’t for me.

This car has become Iris’s domain.

Every detail screams that Ravi’s already given his heart to someone else. Even though I’m his mate—even though the bond between us is barely hanging on by a thread—all I can do is watch as his car becomes another woman’s territory.

A bitter laugh escapes before I can stop it.

As I move the bag aside, I accidentally glimpse two boxes of condoms inside. One’s been opened.

My hands still.

Then I calmly set the bag down and look away.

Something twists in my chest—sharp and unwelcome—but I force myself to ignore it. Turn my gaze to the window instead.

Kayden starts the car and drives me to the downtown hospital.

“Luna Roxie.” He opens the door when we arrive. I nod and walk into the hospital.

But instead of heading to the gynecology department, I go straight to the inpatient ward to see Mom.

She’s standing by the window, looking outside, an empty dinner tray on the table beside her. The medication seems to be working—she looks more energetic, her color better than it’s been in weeks.

I feel the money’s been well spent. At least it can ease her pain, even if only a little. “Mom,” I call softly.

“Roxie?” She turns, her face lighting up with surprise and a touch of confusion. “What are you doing here so late?”

“I missed you.” I walk over and hug her, playfully pressing our cheeks together. “Have you been following your treatment plan?”

“Don’t worry. I’m not as stubborn as you are.” She pinches my cheek affectionately.

I am stubborn—that much is true. Otherwise, I wouldn’t have spent all these years loving Ravi.

Despite all the unmated Alphas Mom tried to introduce me to, I stubbornly refused every single one, worrying her sick.

And even though I eventually bonded with Ravi, Mom knows I’m not happy. “Roxie...” She’s about to speak when Dr. Harris walks in.

Seeing me, his face breaks into a smile. “Perfect timing! I was just about to call you.” My heart lurches. “What’s wrong?”

I’m terrified Mom’s condition has taken a turn for the worse.

“Don’t worry, it’s good news,” Dr. Harris says with a grin. “A patient underwent surgery with that special medication a few days ago. Complete success, and the post-op results are excellent!”

“Really?” My eyes widen. “Absolutely.” He nods earnestly.

It’s a new medication that, while it passed clinical trials, hasn’t been widely tested yet—there were still potential risks.