Rivals and Retribution
"Look at her, playing mate." The whispers followed Aria through the compound's corridors. "As if someone like Viktor Volkov would truly bind himself to such damaged goods."
Elena Blackwood, daughter of the Southern Pack's Alpha, didn't bother to whisper. She stood with her circle of admirers, deliberately blocking Aria's path to Viktor's office.
"I heard he hasn't even claimed her properly," Elena said loudly. "Just keeping her around for political alliance with her father. I mean, look at her – so plain, so... broken." Her perfect lips curved cruelly. "My sources say he still entertains other wolves in his private quarters. More suitable companions."
Aria's wolf bristled, but years of abuse had taught her to mask pain. Through their bond, she felt Viktor's sudde
