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RUBY JUNE. “Where do you think you’re going, young lady?” Bruno’s voice rang out, freezing me in my tracks. My heart sank. s**t. I hadn’t expected him back this early. I thought I’d have enough time to sneak out of the packhouse, speak with the elders, and reveal that Bruno isn’t who he claims to be. Slowly, I turned around, forcing a nervous smile. “Just… taking a little walk around the packhouse.” He stepped toward me, his eyes dark and piercing. “Are you sure about that?” His voice held an edge, and I felt my pulse quicken. I fought to keep calm, to hide the tremor building in my chest. I nodded slowly, trying to appear casual. “Yes. That’s all.” “Hmm.” His expression made it clear he wasn’t convinced. “Didn’t you get my message?” His tone sharpened. I swallowed hard to keep my c