Their Secret Obsession by Pippa Moon

Chapter 0296

"Kane," he called out. "A word?"

I waited as he closed the distance between us, bracing myself for the lecture I knew was coming. It was always the same-responsibilities, duties, the weight of the pack resting on my shoulders.

"What is it?" I asked, striving to keep my tone neutral. He studied me intently, his piercing gaze searching for something-weakness, perhaps, or defiance.

"I've heard about the incident with Connie."

"I'll handle it," I sighed, rolling my eyes despite myself.

"See that you do. The pack can't afford any internal conflicts right now." He nodded slowly. I paused, a bitter laugh threatening to escape.

"So we are clear... Do you want me to scold my mate or defend her to Adam?"

one day. I trust you to make the right decision." He raised an

of leadership was so different from mine. To him, it was about maintaining control, appearances, and traditions-no matter who got trampled in the process. To

through me. His touch felt more like a shackle than a gesture of support. Part

to say through

smile before turning back toward the house. I watched him go, the weight of his

edge of the woods. The morning sky was overcast, thick clouds blotting out the sun and casting everything in a dreary grey light. I stopped by my usual old oak tree, its gnarled branches stretching upward like skeletal fingers. "Maybe it's time we accept things as they are; leave Lottie

She's our mate." Rolo growled

remember, if she doesn't want us..." My voice broke, the

firmly. "We have to believe

the ground. The damp earth soaked into my skin, but I didn't care. Exhaustion washed over

children. The

even had the chance to be a part of their lives, to feel them grow,

myself back to my feet, so over my pity party. I was about to

now." As I headed back toward the packhouse, a plan began to