Their Secret Obsession by Pippa Moon

Chapter 0226

"By showing strength and conformity," I said, pointedly glancing at the empty chair where Knox should have been. "A united front, clear communication, and mutual respect." The room fell silent, the Alphas considering my words. Finally, Alpha Matteo spoke again. "Actions speak louder than words, Kane. You'll need to prove this so-called unity." My father gave me a subtle nod, no doubt, to steady my temper that seemed to be bubbling just beneath the surface.

"Kane is right. We will demonstrate our strength and "unity" My father declared his eyes locked harshly on Alpha Matteo's. "And when Knox arrives I am sure he will put those doubts I understand you are having, to rest. This meeting is just the beginning of our journey, gentleman." I tried to focus on the discussion, but my thoughts kept drifting to Knox. His absence was a glaring issue. I sent out another desperate attempt through the mind link. "Knox, where the hell are you?" I growled, but again it fell on deaf ears.

"Still nothing." Rolo rasped. I forced myself to participate in the conversation, but the nagging worry wouldn't leave me. Knox was more than my brother; he was my partner in leading this pack. We can't afford any missteps now. Not when we were already on thin ice for our 'treatment' of our mate Charlotte and the pups she carried. Our pups.

As the meeting dragged on, I felt the weight of the Alphas' scrutiny. This wasn't just about alliances and borders; it was about proving that Knox and I could lead. And right now, Knox was making it incredibly difficult.

misses Charlotte and the pups." "We both do." I stated harshly, not wanting to have this conversation again. Sensing my mood changing, his brows furrowed, and his lips thinned as he eyed me cautiously. "What I mean.." He corrected himself. "...Is that I know he has taken Charlotte's move badly, but if he wants to ensure those babies are safe when she does return, he needs to.." "I know." I replied, rubbing my temples, the last few weeks catching up with me. "I'll find him. I promise." I sighed

your brother understands what's at stake." My father offered a smile as weak as my own as he placed a

let us down again." I nodded, feeling the weight of his words, although unlike him I knew Charlotte would not be returning anytime soon. As I left the room, I tried

a damn good reason for this." I growled angrily. Silence, but then,

closed with frustration, his tone alone was enough to suggest

I let out a breath b didn't realise I'd been holding. At least he was alive. Which was becoming a daily worry, if

honest with myself.