Caroline’s POV
"I can’t believe you’re really going through with this," Kyle said, sitting cross-legged on Eleanor’s couch Friday night. Her eyes were full of concern as she reached for my hand. "Draven is completely devastated. Ryan says he hasn’t slept or eaten properly since you broke up with him."
"That’s true," Ava added, coming from the kitchen with a fresh bottle of wine. "I was doing inventory, and everyone was talking about how their Alpha looks like a walking ghost."
I sighed, hugging a pillow to my chest. My friends were doing everything they could to cheer me up and convince me not to leave Draven, but my mind was made up.
"I can’t stand between him and his child," I whispered. "And you know Ella would make my life absolute hell. I wouldn’t be able to bear it."
Ruby flopped down beside me, nudging my shoulder playfully. "Well, if you’re really done with the brooding Alpha, my brother Jax is still interested in you. Maybe give him a chance? He’s a total sweetheart and great with kids..."
"Ruby!" Kyle exclaimed, throwing a cushion at her. "Don’t make things worse!"
"What?" Ruby shrugged innocently. "I’m just saying there are other wolves in the forest."
Eleanor, who had been quiet until now, set down her wine glass. "Actually, if you’re looking for options, Nate could introduce you to some of the single guys in his pack. There’s this one warrior with really striking blue eyes......"
"Eleanor!" Ava and Kyle shouted in unison.
"Not you too!" Kyle groaned. "We’re trying to help them get back together, not set her up with someone new!"
Eleanor slid over and wrapped her arms around me. "I’m just teasing. But unlike these two matchmakers, I’m firmly on Team Caroline. Whatever you decide, I support you one hundred percent."
I leaned into her embrace, grateful for the unconditional support. "Thank you," I whispered, feeling tears well up again. "I just don’t see any other way. How can I compete with the mother of his child?"
"You don’t have to compete," Kyle said gently. "Draven has made it clear who he wants."
"But at what cost?" I asked. "His reputation in the pack? His relationship with his child? I can’t be responsible for that."
The conversation continued late into the night, with my friends offering comfort, advice, and the occasional inappropriate suggestion that made me laugh despite my heartache. When morning came, I felt drained but determined to face the week ahead.
Monday arrived all too quickly. Eleanor drove me to work, giving my hand a final squeeze before I stepped out of her car.
"Remember what I said," she told me through the window. "One call away if you need anything."
I nodded, straightening my shoulders as I approached the Thorne Enterprises building. Before I could reach the entrance, Howard stepped directly into my path, his face contorted with rage.
"What the hell are you still doing here, you worthless home-wrecker?" he yelled, blocking my way. I tried to sidestep him, but he moved with me, grabbing my arm roughly. "I asked you a question, you little tramp."
I felt Rory growl inside me.
"Let go of me," I demanded, yanking my arm from his grasp. "I work here!"
"No, you don’t!" His eyes flashed with anger. "I’m going to demand that Draven fire you immediately!"
"Go ahead," I said coldly, turning my back on him.
When Howard reached for me again, a large hand intercepted his arm. Daniel, one of the security guards, stepped between us.

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