At the Trial Grounds, my brother Cade and my sister stood on either side of me, worry plain on their faces.
"Calla, stop." My sister grabbed my hand around the bow, her voice tight. "Your injuries haven't healed. One more fall could kill you."
Cade stood on the other side, his face dark.
"There are a hundred better men out there. I'll find you one myself. We don't have to follow this trial."
I kept my head down and said nothing.
I knew they were hurting for me.
Six falls from a horse — every single one had put me in bed for two weeks.
New scars over old ones. The Pack Healer's sighs had grown heavier each time.
I kept telling myself: one more try, and Rowan would be waiting for me on the other side.
I never once thought those accidents weren't accidents.
Rowan Thorne walked over from the other side of the crowd. He had caught Cade's words, and a flicker of displeasure crossed his face.
"Cade, Calla and I want this. You can't tear us apart over a few accidents."
Cade's temper flared. He clenched his fist.
"Rowan, my biggest regret is ever bringing you into our Pack."
Three years ago, Cade had brought his friend Rowan Thorne to Sterling Manor.
I was chasing butterflies in the garden in the spring sunshine. He stood at the corridor and watched me for a long time, and then he was in love with me.
Rowan was polished and attentive. I was fourteen. I fell hard.
When I learned about the Thorne Pack's Mate Trial requirement, I dragged myself to the training grounds every day for three years — me, who had never cared for riding or archery.
My thighs were raw and scarred. My palms were layered with calluses. I cried in private more times than I could count.
But thinking I'd get to be with him made it feel worth it.
I never imagined that every single fall had something to do with him.
I lowered my eyes and slowly curled my fingers into my palm.
Rowan glanced at Cade, his tone easy.
"You don't get a say. Calla wants to try again."
Cade and my sister both looked at me. Pleading.
I looked up and gave them a small smile — the same one I'd given them every time I climbed up before.
"It's fine. Trust me."
Rowan laughed, pleased with himself.
Cade stepped back and cleared the way, his eyes full of disappointment.
I walked toward Rowan, my nails pressing into my palm.
This time, I would make him understand — some debts have to be paid.
Rowan reached out to take my hand. I shifted slightly and avoided it.
He blinked. I kept my expression neutral and offered a reason: "I put ointment on my hands. They're dirty."