Kaelen's POV
The tension in the room was suffocating as my father, Lord Alaric Nightwing, stepped through the doorway. His normally commanding presence seemed heavier, burdened with news I already knew I didn't want to hear.
"What did he say?" I demanded, not bothering with pleasantries. My wolf paced restlessly beneath my skin, hungry for action—for blood.
Father's weathered face remained impassive, but I could see the concern in his eyes. "Damien is serious about his intentions toward Seraphina."
The confirmation hit me like a physical blow. "He can't have her," I growled, my voice dropping to a dangerous octave. "She's ours. Our mate. Our wife."
"A wife you and your brothers systematically abused and humiliated for years," Father reminded me harshly. "A mate you rejected until fate forced your hand."
His words cut deep, but I couldn't argue. The truth of our cruelty toward Seraphina haunted me with every breath.
"That doesn't give Damien the right to—" I started.
