As the initial shock faded, I turned to Ryan. His worried expression contrasted with the chaos inside me after the truth emerged.
“That doesn’t make sense,” I murmured, confusion thick in my voice. “How does he even know I exist? What does he want with me?” The weight of my insignificance was suffocating.
Ryan stepped closer, cradling my face in his warm hands. “I know it doesn’t make sense. Dad said the Alpha wanted you and I had to keep you away from the battle. You’d be too vulnerable.” His words hung heavy with fear.
I nodded, understanding why I had been shielded from the conflict, yet still lost. Why did I warrant such protection? I had never met this man, the Alpha, so why was he searching for me?
Ryan’s hands moved to my waist, pulling me into his embrace. I wrapped my arms ar
