Eleana
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Breakfast had barely ended when Elena looked across the table at Ryker, her voice steady despite the tension lingering in the room.
“Ryker, can I talk to you alone after breakfast?”
Kai immediately perked up, grinning. “Oooh, you’re in trouble!”
A sharp kick from Lira cut him off.
“Ow—Lira! What was that for?”
“Shut up,” she muttered, dragging him toward the door.
Jax and Rowan slipped out quickly, clearly wanting to avoid another Alpha outburst. Kai left rubbing his shin, Lira pushing him ahead. The room finally emptied, leaving only Elena and Ryker.
Ryker let out a slow breath, shoulders tight. “I know. I’m sorry. I need better control.”
Elena stepped closer, keeping her tone calm. “It’s okay. But they’re going to be my guard. It’s important that I have a close relat
