By the time everything was settled, the night had grown deep and bitter. Frost clung to the stone courtyard, and the moon hung pale above the pack territory.
That was when Odette’s voice slipped into the pack mindlink.
Weak. Breathless. Fragile.
Yet unmistakably clear.
No matter what happens, in Cassian’s heart, I will always come first.
For a moment, I said nothing. Then I lowered my eyes and let out a quiet laugh.
My reply slipped back just as softly.
Then I wish the two of you happiness together.
After that, I sealed my mindlink to her.
I thought that would be the end of it.
I was wrong.
Past midnight, the communication stone on my bedside table flared repeatedly, pulsing with Cassian’s summons until pale light filled the room. I had no desire to answer, but he was persistent.
At last, I picked it up.
The moment the connection opened, his anger struck like claws.
“Elara Hale, what are you trying to do now? Why did you shut Odette out? She fainted again because of it. You know how weak she is. How many times have I told you not to upset her? She cannot bear it.”
I did not answer at once.