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?"

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

maintaining control, appearances,

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

to say

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

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 in the safety of her brothers." I whispered into the

She's our mate."

doesn't want us..." My voice broke, the thought too

will," he insisted firmly. "We have to

my skin, but I didn't care. Exhaustion washed over me, both physical and emotional. "One day at a time," Rolo soothed. "For her. For our

children. The words

chance to be a part of their lives, to feel them

so over my pity party.

inside me. "I can't give up now." As I headed back toward the packhouse, a