I pulled her tight against me, wrapping my arms around her protectively, shielding her as best I could from the cruel whispers and colder stares. Then I lifted my head and met Kael's eyes with all the fury of my bloodline burning behind my gaze.
"Kael Ashvale." Each word was ice, sharp enough to cut. "Aren't you afraid of what happens when my parents find out about this?"
At the mention of my parents, Kael's composure cracked—just for a second, but I caught the flicker in his amber eyes.
He quickly suppressed the smirk tugging at his lips and lowered his voice. "They claimed they were traveling to distant territories to rest five years ago. Strange how they never returned to the pack."
"You think I haven't pieced it together?"
I didn't understand what he meant. He continued, "I've known for a long time. They weren't seeking peace—they were fleeing."
"Consider it carefully. The Nightbloom Territory is vast, our pack's dominion unmatched. You truly believe your father built that empire of resources and hunting grounds alone?" He scoffed. "Please. There had to be blood-debts and forbidden dealings involved."