"She is one human girl, Xanden," Alaric dismissed, his tone calm, almost bored. "We've all had our shares in disobeying Father."
"Don't try to justify yourself." Xanden's voice was low, restrained, and warning.
Alaric only shrugged. Careless, and unbothered. "She is my Luna."
'Ours.' Xanden's eyes glowed golden, as his wolf growled, fighting to come to the surface. A low, possessive growl echoed through his head, sharp enough to make his jaw tighten.
But outwardly, he said nothing.
Xanden stared at Alaric for a moment longer. His gaze was hard, and searching, like he wanted to say more.
He exhaled through his nose, shook his head once, and turned.
Without another word, he walked out. The door closed behind him, and the room quieted again.
Alaric didn't move immediately.
His gaze lingered on the door for a second. Then slowly, he turned back to Aire, and walked toward her.
Aire's breath slowed slightly as he approached.
Alaric stopped beside her bed.
