CADEN
The estate was quiet when I returned.
I made my way through the halls with purpose, my footsteps echoing against the marble floors.
Servants scattered as I passed, their eyes averted. They knew better than to get in the way of an Alpha's son on a mission.
Zane's quarters were in the east wing, far removed from the rest of the family. He had always preferred isolation, claiming the distance helped him think.
I suspected it was something else entirely. A tactical advantage, perhaps, or simply a desire to keep his secrets hidden from prying eyes.
His door was locked when I reached it. I knocked once, twice, three times, but there was no response.
“Zane.” I kept my voice level despite the frustration clawing at my chest. “Open the door.”
Silence.
I tried the handle again, ratt
