Chapter 43 - Zoe's Shame

Warning. Portions of this chapter may be difficult for some readers.

Zoe, Ryder, Ariel, and the wolves returned to the pack house to the sounds of excitement. Ryder had mindlinked ahead so everyone would know Cressida was dead and they were on their way home. Nick and Darina were waiting for them with clothes. Once dressed, Zoe ran to her parents, crying. She had been scared she would never see them again.

"We're so glad you made it out of there safely. Did she hurt you?" Darina asked, kissing Zoe's cheek.

"Not much physically. I don't want to talk about what else she did. It's too humiliating," Zoe said as Ryder walked over to them. She let go of her parents and hugged him.

"She was evil and loved to mess with people's lives. What she did and forced you to do is not your fault. You shouldn't feel any guilt or shame. I love you," Ryder stroked her head as he held her tightly. He could feel Zoe's shame through the mate bond. She looked up at him with tears