Mara
Martha broke down again, sobbing openly now, but her voice cut through the tears.
“So yes, I brought Lacy here to catch Lucian’s eye. That’s how we survive in Goldenpeak. We either prostitute ourselves or find wealthy mates. It’s our way of life.”
She looked at Darian with wild eyes, as if daring him to judge her.
“Your father gave everything to Lucian. What about us? What about me and you? Did we deserve nothing?”
She laughed again, bitter and unhinged.
“Goldenpeak is a wasteland. No land, no resources, no future. Women leave to survive. I was lucky. Alaric was an Alpha’s son. He had a mark, but he was broke, violent, and cruel. I stayed with him because I had no choice.”
Her breathing slowed, like she was sinking.
“Vander saved me once. Just once. That’s all it took. I fell
