In the Alpha’s Arms

expected-”

“And now, look at her!” Stace’s voice broke a little. “I would think you, of all people, Alpha, would understand what it’s like to be abused. You would leave your mate to that fate?”

Cole huffed, wiping his bleeding no

nose as he leaned against the far wall What could he say back to that? Subordinate or not, Stacey was right. He’d been selfish and cruel for absolutely no reason. Because she was human? God, he sounded like his father. Because she wanted to be a ring bunny? It wasn’t because she purposely wanted to hurt him. Cole knew that. And still he’d ignored what he’d seen because… he had no excuse.

Stace stared a hole in head, calmed at least by the fact that Cole looked as miserable as Stace thought he should

“I didn’t plan on claiming her. I still don’t. We all know Alpha’s don’t claim a human mate. It weakens the bloodline… Cole cringed at his own words. His father’s words. “But you’re right, I should have helped her if I suspected she was in trouble. Claiming her shouldn’t have had anything to do with stopping violence against women.” He knew he was doing something most Alphas didn’t, admitting to a lapse in judgement in front of his whole pack. And yet, the remorse he felt demanded he do it. He’d disappointed himself and set a terrible example for the others.

chest tightened. He knew in

hanging wide open. “That’s…wow…

asked again, still staring at the girl. Her injuries were darkening with the passing of each minute. Her skin even seemed pale compared to the deep browns and purples. She could have internal

addressed Alex but looked back at Lita’s unconscious body, “She was fine, I mean flustered and bruised, but fine, ya know. And then, boom, she was passing out,

ME

tone. It was irrational. His wolf’s reaction was completely

if she’d had THAT man protecting her, maybe this wouldn’t have happened, Stace yelled, tossing her arms into the

at her like she’d lost her mind. Stace could

brother even as she canted her head lower in submission. Andres also lowered his

Delta?!” Cole spat the name through the space between them like a physical force. Andres straightened his back and forced himself to

rejected her, and you’re saying she’s your mate. That would make