Damien’s jaw tightens as he speaks, his gaze fixed on the path ahead. “Ryan was supposed to return with me,” he mutters, his voice edged with frustration. “The pack won’t expect this betrayal.”
Raven watches him carefully, sensing the weight of his thoughts. “Will they blame you?” she asks, her tone gentle but firm.
His eyes flick to hers, a storm brewing in their depths. “As their Alpha, I bear some responsibility,” he admits. “But Ryan’s shame is his own.” His voice hardens, as if reinforcing the statement for himself as much as for her. Then, with a quiet sigh, he reaches out, his fingers pressing lightly against her shoulder—a grounding touch. “Just let me handle it, Raven. It’s not something I can explain easily.”
She nods without hesitation. “Of course. I’m here if you need me,” s
