Mommy, are you and Uncle Elliot forming a mate bond?" Jared asked suddenly, his voice bright with innocent curiosity that cut through the warm hum of the restaurant's pack energy.
I nearly choked on my breath. The question landed too directly, too instinctively aware for a child who shouldn't yet understand the weight of bonds, mates, or Alpha claims. I quickly steadied myself, forcing my tone to remain calm as I replied, "Uncle Nigel is joking. Don't take it seriously."
Nigel leaned back in his seat, clearly entertained. His gaze drifted toward Elliot with that familiar teasing edge, as though silently questioning why an Alpha as decisive as him was still circling instead of claiming what he clearly wanted.
