Chapter 83

Selena's POV

In the dimly lit cave, surrounded by the worried faces of the pack, I couldn't shake the lingering unease that had settled in my chest. Hazel's distant demeanor, the revelation of Nightshade's plans, and the monstrous creature they had unleashed—all of it weighed heavily on my mind.

As I stole a glance at Hazel, who stood stoically by the entrance, his gaze distant, I couldn't ignore the ache in my heart. The connection we once shared felt strained, and the unanswered questions lingered in the air.

"Hazel," I whispered, my voice barely audible amidst the hushed conversations in the cave. He turned to look at me, his expression guarded.

"Are you okay?" I asked, my concern evident in my eyes. He nodded, but the distance in his gaze remained.

"Hazel, we need to talk," I insisted, my voice quivering with a mix of frustration and vulnerability.

"Now is not the time, Selena. We have more pressing matters to deal with," he replied, his tone firm.

I took a step closer, unable to