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?"

you to make the right decision."

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

shoulder. A surge of irritation shot through me. His touch felt more like a shackle than a gesture of support. Part of me wanted to shrug him

Alpha," I managed to

me a tight-lipped smile before turning back toward the house. I watched him go, the weight of his

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

She's our mate." Rolo

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

insisted firmly. "We have to

can take," I confessed, sinking to the ground. The damp earth soaked into my skin, but I didn't care. Exhaustion washed over me, both physical and emotional. "One day at a time," Rolo soothed. "For

children. The words

hope and despair. I hadn't even had the chance to be a part of their lives, to feel them

my pity party.

of determination igniting inside me. "I can't give up now." As I headed back toward the packhouse, a plan began to form. I needed to