The implications of that statement hung in the air between us. I thought again of Benjamin Thorne, the werewolf who had hurt her, who had likely used his status as Alpha to control rather than protect. Anger stirred within me, but I kept it carefully contained, aware of how she might interpret any display of aggression.
"Aeson has no desire to dominate Artemis," I said softly. "He respects her strength. We both do."
Emma studied me, her expression difficult to read in the diffused moonlight. "That's... unusual, but appreciated. Most male Alphas expect submission, especially from their mates."
"I am not most male Alphas," I replied simply. "And I've spent nearly two centuries watching what dominance without respect has done to this kingdom."
Her eyes widened slightly at the mention of m
