ALPHA XAVIER

The unexpected turn of events at the women's circle left me bewildered. Verin's betrayal came as a shock; I had believed her to be an ally. Confronted in public, I found myself making promises I hadn't anticipated, pledging fairness to their Alpha Female. But when had they earned the right to intervene in the affairs of mates? Only the Moon Goddess held such authority, and even then, I retained the autonomy to heed her guidance or not.

Isabel was my mate first and foremost, predating her status as their Alpha Female. My bond with her conferred that distinction upon her. It shouldn't alter my prerogative to treat my...