Jessica's POV The sound of running water and other kitchen activities flooded my mind as I stood next to the sink. I scrubbed at a plate, the soapy water swirling as I worked at a stubborn stain. Rose rinsed another plate beside me, stacking it neatly with the clean dishes. Across the kitchen, an Omega flipped thick steaks on the griddle, the meat sizzling as fat dripped and smoked. Someone else stirred a bubbling pot of stew, the rich aroma of herbs and slow-cooked meat filling the air. Nearby, bread was baked in the oven, its golden crust forming as the scent of warm dough mingled with the rest of the meal. And then they were the whispers. "Who the hell does she think she is going against Rebecca?" "I'm sure she thinks that she is strong because the Alpha announced that she

