The halls felt too quiet when Ronan and I returned from the perimeter. Warriors moved like shadows through the corridors, checking corners and reinforcing guard rotations. Everyone was on edge. Everyone knew something was happening to me, even if they pretended not to stare.
My wolf stayed alert beneath my skin, pacing in slow circles. Every breath felt heavier. The bond pulsed through me in steady waves, warming my chest whenever Ronan stepped too close. It was too much. Too constant. I needed a moment to think, but every time I tried, another ripple of dominance escaped me and warriors flinched.
Great. More people scared of me.
We reached the second floor landing. Ronan slowed, sensing something. His hand brushed my arm.
“You should rest,” he said softly.
“I am fine.”
“You are not.
