VENESSA POV

The healer’s hands had barely brushed the edge of Aria’s blanket when she jerked away like the woman was holding fire instead of herbs. My eyes widened, but not in pity,no, it was curiosity that pulled at me. What was she hiding that made her so desperate to avoid treatment? Even Elena, who usually tried to keep her face composed, had her brows knit in open confusion.

Aria’s voice had been sharp, almost frantic. “I said I don’t need her. Leave me alone!”

The workers froze. The healer’s palms lifted in surrender, and Alpha Kael’s gaze had burned hot enough to melt stone. He had dismissed everyone with...