Chapter 49

Shannon

Owen obeyed, though his shoulders tensed. “Yes, Alpha,” he said quietly.

Evan’s eyes narrowed. “I appreciate what you did,” he said after a pause. “But don’t ever touch her again. Do you understand?”

Owen blinked, confused. “I was only trying to protect her.”

“I know,” Evan said, his tone icy, “but I decide who protects her. Not you.”

The words hit hard. Owen bowed his head, his jaw tight. “Yes, Alpha.”

Then Evan turned to me. His gaze softened for just a heartbeat, and my breath caught. “Are you hurt?” he asked.

I shook my head quickly. “No… I’m fine.”

His eyes searched mine, as if trying...