Aurora seemed even more angered now. “He’s my mate.”

“And if the Moonstone latches to you, Aurora. If it feeds off your pain, your sacrifice, and you don't have a strong enough wolf to push back. It will kill you.”

“I’ll handle it.”

“You’re weak.”

Aurora didn’t argue with that logic, but it didn't stop her before. “Not too weak to try.”

Maelis sighed again, like she’d aged a hundred years in one breath. “That’s why I took it.”

Aurora’s brows furrowed. “Tool what?”

Maelis nodded toward her wrists. “Check again.”

Aurora looked down and for the first time today she realised the Moonstone was gone. Her whole body stilled,...