The early shifting celebration ended in chaos.
Just as I faced down Michael, our parents finally returned.
They smoothly dismissed the gathered pack members with diplomatic grace.
Sarah tried her usual victim act with Mother, but was cut off by a steel–edged smile:
“Excuse me, but pack matters stay within the pack. You may leave now.”
Sarah choked back tears, casting one last pleading look at Michael before slipping away.
Once only family remained, Father’s Alpha power filled the room:
“Now, explain what happened here.”
Before Michael could speak, I jumped in:
“A new wolf transferred to our territory. She tried to steal my research on silver poisoning prevention.”
“When she failed, she started cutting herself with silver, claiming I was bullying her.”
“Later I found out that this girl was the Michael that my brother loved and had supported for several years.”
Michael’s head snapped up, shock radiating through our pack bond.
Surprised, brother?
Did you think I wouldn’t discover your secret connection with her?
I pressed a hand to my eyes, letting my voice crack:
“I wouldn’t have minded sharing the research if she’d just asked. A celebration of my early shifting isn’t worth all this.”
