Jade
I turned my gaze to Darius, waiting, hoping he’d respond with the same fire burning in his eyes. He stood there, fists clenched so tightly that blood trailed from where his nails dug into his palms. His face held no trace of Rowon’s smug arrogance; instead, it was a mix of anger, disbelief, and something deeper—something that hurt to see. His eyes met mine, pleading silently, as though he couldn’t believe I’d demand something so brutal of him.
My wolf stirred, growling deep within me. How dare you risk our mate’s life like this? Her voice was laced with fury and fear. But I ignored her, pushing her voice aside, and forced myself to keep my expression cold and unreadable. I had to do this—to know who would truly be willing to fight for me, to stand by my side.
"Did you hear yourself
