---- I lose control." She laughed, a brittle sound. "And what? You'll bite me?" I leaned closer, voice low and deadly. "Say one more word, and I'll do more than that." Before I could move, she gasped and stumbled backward, collapsing to the ground with a dramatic cry. I stared, confused. "What the hell-" She clutched her hand, pretending to sob as if the scrape across her palm was a mortal wound. "T didn't mean to upset you, Becky. It's not my fault Alpha David bonded with me instead of you!" A sharp voice cracked through the air like thunder. ---- "Becky!" Alpha David stormed out of the council house, fury burning in his eyes. "What the hell did you do to her?" I blinked, stunned by the accusation. "Excuse me?" He rushed to Kiera's side and helped her up as she curled into him like a broken doll. "She's pregnant, Becky! Are you seriously threatening her right now?" I froze. Kiera let out a pitiful sob, hiding her face in his chest. I could smell the deceit all over her. I exhaled, exasperated. "J don't have time for this circus." ---- I spun on my heel and walked off, ignoring the sting in my chest. My driver was already waiting at the end of the path, the engine humming softly. "Take me back to the estate." The ride was silent. I leaned against the window, eyes half-closed. It wasn't pain. Just exhaustion- deep, soul-weary exhaustion. The estate gates opened as we arrived, and the butler greeted me with a bow. Inside, Alpha Michael was already waiting. The moment he saw me, his expression softened. "You're back." I gave a small nod. "Yeah." He studied me quietly.