The sight of Mara’s lifeless body twisted my stomach, not because of the brutality of it, but because I knew who had really wielded the knife that ended her life. My gaze dropped, fixing at a distant point on the wall behind the elders.
Alpha Marcus's voice was heavy with finality. "This is the result of your actions, Ariana."
Before he could continue, a voice suddenly cut through the tension.
"YOU!"
Lucas, Mara’s brother, shoved his way through the crowd. Before anyone could stop him, he lunged at me, his hands locking around my throat.
"You worthless omega! You took my sister from me!" he snarled, his fingers tightening until I struggled for breath. "You cursed, good-for-nothing creature!"
Spots danced before my vision, the lack of air making my head spin. Just as darkness started creeping in, strong hands pulled Lucas off me. He fought against the warriors holding him back, his furious eyes never leaving mine.
"Your family is cursed," he spat, his voice shaking with rage. "You bring nothing but ruin to this pack!"
"Enough!" Alpha Marcus's voice rang with authority. He raised his hands, and silence fell once more.