Zarek.
When I returned to the palace, tension coiling in my chest like a live wire pulled too tight, I found Zechariah already waiting. I had mind-linked him earlier, telling him I needed to speak with him, and I had no patience for small talk.
“There was an attack while I was out,” I said, my voice a blade held steady. “The shot was not meant for anyone else. It was aimed at me.”
Zechariah’s eyes widened, genuine concern flickering across his features. “Alpha… that is grave. Who would dare strike at you directly?”
“I’ll find out,” I muttered, jaw clenching. “I need to know exactly who is bold—or foolish—enough to make such a move. No one humiliates me twice and survives it.”
He swallowed, his fingers twitching as though he wished to offer something more solid than words. “I’ll go thr
