Chapter 0344

"Tell me about it," I wanted to say. I was instantly reminded of the three months I'd spent before my rebirth. That, too, had been a nightmare—the constant fear, the isolation, the feeling of hopelessness.

A pang of loneliness hit me as I realized I couldn't share that experience with anyone. Only Viona knew, thank the Goddess. Lately, I'd been wanting to tell Noah; it was the one thing I still kept from him after our promise to be truthful with each other. But the fear of his reaction held me back. Would he even believe me? Or would he think I'd lost my mind?

Luna Alanna suddenly cleared her throat, bringing the room to order. The chatter died down immediately, all eyes turning to the Luna Queen.

“Let’s get back on track. Luna Hannah, I believe you have a presentation for us?”

Taking a deep breath, I stood and made my way to the front of the room. My folder, containing the documents I had so painstakingly prepared, suddenly seemed to weigh a hundred pounds.

“Thank you, Luna Queen,” I began, my voice steady despite my nerves. “Today, I would like to present my proposal for a pen pal program for children across our packs.”

As I delved into the details of the program, explaining how it would boost literacy, creativity, and provide an outlet for children, I could see the interest growing in the other Lunas' eyes. I outlined the benefits of fostering connections across pack territories and how it could lead to stronger inter-pack relations in the future.

I didn't, however, mention my own personal history with the subject. I couldn't bear to talk about the countless letters I had sent to Noah as teenagers—letters that he had… forgotten. No matter how hard I had fallen for him again, that still stung more than anything.

The meeting was called to an end. My pen pal program had been well-received, but we quickly moved on to other matters. Finally, when the sun had risen high in the sky, Alanna dismissed the Lunas.

All except for me.

“Luna Hannah, might I have a word with you in private?” she asked, her tone neutral.

My heart sank. I remembered one of the Lunas mentioning that being called to Alanna’s private study this early could only mean something bad. But Alanna was already leaving the room, not waiting for me.

Nearly jogging to keep up, I followed Alanna to her study, a beautifully appointed room lined with bookshelves and adorned with elegant furniture. She was already seated behind her desk when I pushed through the doors.

“Luna Alanna, I—”

“Hannah,” she cut me off, “I called you here because I want you to know that I’m here for you.”

I blinked, taken aback by her abrupt and rather confusing words. “I… thank you, Luna Alanna, but I’m not sure I understand…?”

Alanna’s eyes met mine—all business, but not harsh. “I know that the audio was not a deepfake. And I know you’re preparing for a divorce.”

I felt the blood drain from my face. I didn’t confirm or deny her statement, but Alanna didn’t seem to expect me to.

“I’m not asking for information,” she continued. “I just want you to know that in the event of a divorce, I will vouch for you. Your work here has been exemplary, and I believe you have a bright future ahead of you, whatever path you choose.”

Tears pricked at the corners of my eyes. “Oh. Thank you,” I whispered, not trusting myself to say more without breaking down completely.

Alanna nodded, a small, uncharacteristic smile on her face. “You’re welcome, Hannah. Now, go on. I believe your car is waiting for you.”

I nodded stiffly, rising from the chair on weak legs. That was… unexpected. Welcome, but unexpected. Alanna’s voice had been so matter-of-fact, so chilly. But her words had been warm, reassuring.

It was hard not to smile a bit as I made my way back to the car.