ADELE’S POV

I pushed myself to my feet slowly, my body still humming from pain, anger, and something far more confusing.

When I looked at Lucien, his eyes were no longer just angry.

They were murderous.

Dark. Sharp. Locked on Alpha Derek like he was an enemy standing on his land instead of a respected Alpha inside the King’s pal. The air around him felt heavier, thick with restrained violence, and my wolf curled uneasily inside my chest.

Alpha Derek noticed it too.

He straightened immediately and dipped his head in a respectful bow.

“Beta Lucien,” he greeted calmly.

Lucien didn’t blink.

Didn’t move.

Didn’t return the greeting.

The silence...