Nicole’s POV
“I didn’t do this,” I stammered, my voice trembling as I stared at Jake. His piercing gaze locked onto mine, a storm of accusation swirling in his eyes. My heart pounded erratically, my hands trembling as I looked down at Alexandra’s blood staining my fingers.
“Then who did?” he demanded, his voice cold, his tone edged with a dangerous calm.
“Jake,” I whispered, shaking my head, “you have to believe me. I did not touch her. She was like this when I found her.”
Jake scoffed, stepping closer, his boots echoing ominously against the wooden floor of the cabin. “You? Expect me to believe that? You threatened to kill her in front of the council, Nicole. Everyone heard you.”
I cursed under my breath, biting back a wave of panic. Damn it. Why did I not just wait until morning to
