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.

his chest tightened. He knew in his heart that he should have

mate?” Mark asked, mouth suddenly hanging wide open. “That’s…wow…

of each minute. Her skin even seemed pale compared to the deep browns and purples. She could have internal bleeding, and it made his pulse kick up. His Luna had been hurt, and it rubbed against every protection instinct he had as

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

TELL ME

tone. It was irrational. His wolf’s reaction was completely off base and yet, it didn’t stop from growling, “It’s not your concem! Is

maybe this

her like she’d lost her mind. Stace

canted her head lower in submission. Andres also lowered his head slightly, showing his own acknowledgment, “Of course she’s not

through the space between them like a physical force.

you’re saying she’s your mate. That would make