Chapter 51. The Crossroad

MAGNUS

I lay in bed, staring at the ceiling, my thoughts drifting back to my pack. It had been days since I last heard from them, and the longer I stayed here, the more distant I felt from my responsibilities as their Alpha.

I couldn't ignore the nagging feeling, which kept telling me I was needed back home. My pack needed me, yet I was torn between my duty and the pull I felt toward Astrid.

I sighed, running a hand through my hair as I decided. Today, I would tell Astrid that I was returning to my pack. Even if she didn't want to come with me, I couldn't stay here any longer. My people were my responsibility, and I couldn't abandon them.

After a quick bath, I dressed in a simple white shirt and pants as I stepped out of my room. Walking down the corridor toward Astrid's room, I overheard the maids gossiping nearby.

"Did you see Magnus this morning?" one of them whispered excitedly. "He's so handsome, it's hard not to stare."

"I a