CELESTE
“We know little about you, Luna Celeste. We only know what the world has whispered.” Elder Alaric’s voice rumbled through the silence.
I opened my mouth, but Ingrid continued. “We don’t care about your past. But know this, our Alpha has bled for this pack. He has buried his kin to build it. We will not allow anyone, not even you, to hurt him.”
“Even as his mate,” Fen added bluntly.
The rest of them nodded in unison. The unity was impressive.
I let the silence settle before meeting Ingrid’s eyes squarely. “That’s fair,” I said softly, then louder, clearer. “But allow me to return the favor.”
Knox straightened beside me.
“I’ve been hurt enough to know what betrayal feels like. So I’ll say this once—don’t get in my way, don’t try to hurt me, and don’t even think about hurting
