Chapter 50

The realization seemed to break something in Blackthorn. His attacks became more desperate, more violent, as if sheer brutality could force the submission that Arianna refused to give. But with each exchange, each time she got back up despite her injuries, his advantage diminished.

Not because Arianna was winning—she wasn't. But because the watching wolves were seeing exactly what kind of Alpha each of them was.

Blackthorn, powerful and skilled, trying to force compliance through overwhelming strength.

Arianna, battered and bleeding, refusing to surrender despite knowing she was outmatched.

Through the bond, Duncan's presence was a constant anchor. She could feel his fear for her, his desperate wish...