XERXES The sun bore down on the sprawling green golf course, but I barely felt its warmth. My hands gripped the golf club tightly as I prepared to take my swing. Around me, the other alphas laughed and joked, their carefree attitudes grating on my nerves. I forced myself to stay composed, but something gnawed at me—a nagging feeling I couldn’t shake. Something was wrong. Last night, sleep had evaded me entirely. Every time I closed my eyes, I saw her—Trinity. Alone, vulnerable, surrounded by threats I couldn’t protect her from. Even with the guards stationed around her, I felt restless, helpless. So, I did what I had to: I sent two of my best men back to the palace to get word from her. I needed to know she was safe. But now, standing here amidst laughter and meaningless chatter, the s

