Then his gaze softened slightly as it fell on Aria.
“And you,” he continued quietly, “will return to me. Come back to your Alpha… and to your mate.”
For a moment Aria simply stared at him.
Then she laughed.
It was hollow. Bitter.
“Not happening.”
Her voice carried no hesitation.
“Neither my brother nor I will accept your disgusting offer. Marcus would never bind himself to a manipulative viper like your sister.”
Caleb’s temper flared instantly.
But Aria raised her hand sharply before he could speak.
“Don’t bother,” she cut him off.
“And as for me?” she added with icy calm. “I would rather walk this earth mate-less for the rest of my life than return to a man like you.”
Her voice dropped into a deadly whisper.
“Now walk out of this apartment before I throw you out myself.”
She pointed toward the door again.
“Tomorrow the council will receive my petition.”
Caleb’s eyes darkened dangerously.
“You’ll regret this,” he said coldly. “Both you and your brother will regret challenging your Alpha.”
Aria didn’t flinch.
“Do your worst, Mr. Lutherford.”
The two of them stared at each other in silence for several long seconds.
Then Caleb clenched his teeth and turned sharply toward the door.