Chapter Eighteen

Emily's heart raced as she watched Alpha Ryder regain consciousness. She had been preparing for this moment, steeling herself for the difficult task ahead. The sight of him, confused and disoriented, stirred different emotions within her. She had once loved him, but circumstances had changed, and now she had to protect those she held dear.

As Ryder's gaze fell upon her, Emily could see the flicker of recognition in his eyes. His voice, weak and uncertain, reached her ears. "Emily? Where... where are we going?"

Taking a deep breath, Emily met his gaze, her resolve firm. She couldn't afford to hesitate. "Ryder, we're going on a vacation," she replied, her voice tinged with both determination and sorrow. "A break from everything."

Confusion clouded Ryder's features, and Emily knew she had to tread carefully. She couldn't reveal the truth, not yet. He had to be kept in the dark for her selfish desires and for the sake of Charia, whom he loved. And so, she chose her words carefully, trying