I could feel it through the bond even though I wasn't there.
That familiar tightening in my chest, the low pull of instinct that told me Elliot was irritated controlled, but irritated all the same. An Alpha never lost control in public, but the bond never lied. It carried emotions the way a wolf carried scent.
Hayley forced tears the moment they reached the mansion. I knew her type well. Even without seeing her, I could imagine the way she dabbed at her eyes, pretending to be fragile, pretending to be alone. Wolves like her survived by appearing harmless.
She invited Elliot in, offering tea the way an unmated wolf offered shelter soft words hiding sharp intent. I felt his refusal immediately, clean and firm through the bond. He had a meeting. An excuse, but also the truth. Alphas didn't linger where they didn't belong.
