Emily’s POV
I stepped through the front doors of the estate, still carrying the faint sweetness of fried dough and the thrill of the roller coaster in my chest.
The echoes of Ralph’s laughter clung to me, mingling with the wind that swirled in from the gardens, I had a grin on my face I hadn’t worn in weeks, and for once, the weight of being Alpha Cortez felt… lighter.
“Emily.” A familiar voice growled from behind me. I turned to find Rudy leaning against the marble banister, arms crossed, his eyes sharp and wary. “You’re back.”
“Yes, I’m back.” I said, brushing past him with a small smile. “Do you have a problem with that?” I asked.
“I do.” He replied bluntly, stepping toward me. “You’re going out with Ralph Othon, you can’t just….”
I cut him off, tilting my chin slightly, letting
