Father paused, studying Malcolm’s resolute expression. “I agree with your proposal. Moving the wedding forward might be exactly what we need.”

Relief flooded through me, but Father wasn’t finished.

“However,” he continued, his voice taking on a protective edge, “I need your word that Rebecca Hayes will not target my daughter again. What happened today—Angie coming home injured because of that woman’s jealousy—cannot happen again.”

Malcolm’s jaw tightened, his alpha instincts flaring. “You have my word, sir. Rebecca won’t lay another finger on Angie. I should have handled this situation long ago.”

“Good,” Father nodded firmly. “Because if she continues to bully my daughter, wedding or no wedding, I will...