Chapter 27
Broken Bonds
Adam’s eyes were bloodshot; his fists clenched.
His shadow wolf’s frustration boiled over. He lashed out at Zoe Jackson, a desperate, impulsive act born of his despair and his lingering affection for
Lanie.
“Why him? I won’t accept this, Lanie. If you don’t want to marry him, I’ll help you escape! We can go to another pack territory, back to the Blood Moon pack, anywhere you wish!” he roared.
Zoe Jackson could have easily evaded the blow, but he merely shifted his head, allowing Adam’s hand to graze his cheek, leaving a red mark.
“Oof–Zoe lightly touched his cheek, a grimace briefly twisting his handsome features. Even injured, his alpha presence remained formidable.
His warrior wolf’s strength was barely challenged by Adam’s outburst.
Seeing the injury, Lanie was distressed. She reached out to tend the wound.
“It’s fine. I’m not hurt,” Zoe said, forcing a smile. His control was remarkable, even in this moment of conflict.
Lanie’s concern only intensified, but her resentment quickly turned
towards
Adam.
“Adam! Why did you strike him? When did you become so impulsive?” she reprimanded him, her tone sharp. His anger was barely contained, but it was poorly directed. He hadn’t realized she was completely focused on Zoe, ignoring his earlier plea.
His shadow wolf felt unjustly accused.
“I didn’t strike him! He’s not injured! Lanie, come with me! He’s not a good alpha!” Adam insisted, reaching for her hand.
Lanie instantly recoiled.
This is my family’s territory, my home. I’m not going anywhere with you. You assaulted someone and won’t admit it,” she said, her tone icily cold. Her perceptive wolf picked up on his desperation and saw through his outburst.“Benjamin, Adam, we are no longer friends. You are not welcome at the blood bond ceremony; your actions weren’t genuine.”
Taking Zoe Jackson’s hand, Lanie walked toward the main longhouse. Pack guards barred Benjamin and Adam’s entry. They remained outside, until late into the night, when Lanie’s parents emerged to dismiss them.
this
“Benjamin, Adam, leave. Our family does not welcome you,” Lanie’s father stated, his expression stern. His wolf sensed the danger of allowing situation to escalate further.
“We don’t want Lanie with individuals like you. Who knows if another Qiana might appear?” Lanie’s mother pleaded, her voice laced with You’re both wonderful; don’t waste your time on Lanie.”
worry.
Her father stood silently, his expression grave.
Benjamin’s eyes were bloodshot; his usually composed features were etched with exhaustion.
Adam was equally worn down. Seeing their persistence, Lanie’s parents finally instructed the guards to escort them away,
They had tried to prove their devotion, but Qiana’s betrayal had made it impossible to trust them fully. Benjamin and Adam exchanged a look of utter defeat; their guardian wolf and shadow wolf both felt the sting of rejection.
< Chapter 28
