Chapter 26. Meet Friends

Caliana’s POV

We reached the corner, and as soon as the car slowed, I told the driver I would walk the rest of the way. He glanced at me through the rearview mirror, concern flickering briefly across his face, but he said nothing. The moment my feet touched the pavement, I straightened my shoulders and inhaled deeply. The air here smelled of dust, wet paint, and irritation. I masked my scent instinctively, letting my aura dim until I was just another passerby in the street. No Luna. No Alpha’s mate. Just a woman with unfinished business.

Ahead of me, Candace and June were working—or at least pretending to. Their orange uniforms were already splattered with streaks of paint, their movements lazy and careless as they complained loudly to each other. I slowed my steps, approaching from behind, listening.

“They will make us do it again if you do