“But we have evidence,” I insisted. “My wolf’s dormancy is a direct result of Alpha Foster’s abuse. How can they ignore that?”
“The evidence isn’t sufficient to prove Alpha Foster caused your wolf’s condition,” Evelyn sighed. “There is one thing that could expedite the divorce process. If you found a second chance with another Alpha–someone the Council deems more powerful than Alpha Foster–it would override his standing in the case.”
My thoughts immediately flashed to Alexander–his proposal, his strength, his remarkable restraint.
But I shook my head. “I’m not looking for another Alpha. I just want my freedom–for me and for Felix.”
Evelyn gave a small nod. “Then we proceed as planned. But if circumstances change… claiming by a stronger Alpha could help us push this through faster.”
As I stepped out of her office and into the lobby, a familiar, saccharine scent hit me like a slap–vanilla and artificial flowers.
Susanna.
She was seated like a queen, legs crossed at the ankle, tan coat draped over one shoulder. When she noticed me, she stood with feline grace.
“Summer,” she said, voice as smooth as syrup. “What a pleasant surprise.”
“Susanna,” I replied, keeping my voice flat. “This is no coincidence, is it?”
She smiled wider, all teeth. “Not at all. I’ve been waiting for you.”
I tensed. “I don’t see what we have left to talk about.”
“Oh, I think you’ll want to hear what I have to say… about Felix. “She shot a pointed look at the receptionist, then tilted her head toward the glass doors. “Shall we find somewhere more private?”
I didn’t trust her–I never had–but she’d said Felix’s name.
And if there was even a chance she had something that could affect him… I had to know.
Without a word, I followed her through the glass doors and into a small courtyard just outside the building.
The moment the heavy door clicked shut behind us, her smile vanished.
“Alpha Foster wants you to drop the accusations,” she said bluntly. “The abuse claims, the custody filing, the medical negligence report–all of it.”
I stared at her, heart pounding. “He thinks he can just threaten me into silence?”
“No.” Her voice was cold now. “He simply wants you to return to your place.”
1 scoffed. “That’s rich, coming from you. I would’ve thought you’d be thrilled to see me gone. Less competition, right?”
Susanna didn’t flinch. “That’s the thing, Summer. You leaving wasn’t the plan. You fighting back? That complicates everything.
”
I narrowed my eyes. “You’re not here to negotiate. You’re here to deliver a threat.”
“I’m here to give you a choice,” she said smoothly. “Withdraw everything. Go back to Silver Creek Pack. Resume your duties. In exchange, Alpha Foster will make sure things remain… discreet between us.”
“And if I say no?”
Her eyes turned to ice. “Then Alpha Foster will file for emergency custody. He’ll argue that your dormant wolf renders you unfit.
1/2
Chapter 26
+15 BONUS
He’s already spoken to three Council elders who owe him favors. Once Felix is transferred to Silver Creek Pack’s care, it’ll be nearly impossible for you to see him again.”
My hands balled into fists. “You’re bluffing.”
“I’m warning you,” she replied, stepping closer. “One last time. Walk away before you lose everything.”
“You don’t scare me.”
“Then you’re not thinking clearly.”
I took a step back. “We’re done here.”
She turned, heading back toward the lobby, but tossed one last comment over her shoulder:
“Think about it, Summer. Is your pride worth your son?”
I stood there in the cold silence, trembling with fury.
Then I pulled out my phone with trembling fingers and dialed.
“Alex?” My voice was barely a whisper.
“I’m here,” he answered immediately, voice tense. “What happened?”
“Foster’s making his move,” I said, fighting to stay composed. “He’s trying to take Felix.”
“Where are you?”
“Outside Evelyn’s office. Seattle.”
“Stay where you are. I’m coming.”
As I waited, I stared at my reflection in a nearby window. The woman looking back at me seemed hollow–eyed and frightened. But beneath the fear, I saw something else starting to burn–determination.
Alpha Foster might think he held all the cards, but he’d forgotten one crucial thing: a mother will do anything to protect her child.
And I was done being afraid.
Chapter 27
+15 BONUS
Chapter 27
