Modric’s POV
Velvera opened the door before I knocked.
For one second, relief crossed her face.
Then she slapped me.
The sound cracked through the cottage.
My head turned slightly from the force, but I did not react. I had expected anger after leaving her at the lodge and disappearing into Mooncrest for days. Perhaps I had even driven there because I wanted punishment that felt simpler than the guilt waiting for me at the pack house.
Velvera’s eyes filled with tears.
“You left me.”
“I had to return.”
“You walked out after I begged you to stay.”
“Mary Ann was seriously ill.”
Her expression hardened at the name.
“Your wife had healers.”
“The toxin affected the mate bond.”
“And somehow that made you the only person who could save her.”
“Elara needed my presence.”
Velvera laugh
