He stood still, his eyes ruthlessly cold, showing absolutely no emotion. "Zain is right, we can't afford any mistakes now. We can't risk my future and the future of everyone else in the pack." He looked them in the eyes. "I have to put an end to this." He had to reject her. Without saying much, Astride left the office, roving to the west wing of the castle, to Penelope quarters.

Without much of a courtesy knock on the door, Penelope barged into her chamber.

His eyes fell on Mara and Nina, who he had stationed by her side.

They lowered their heads instantly, but Astride eyes were on the...