Everyone froze.
"I said, she's not a murderer," Kayden repeated each word, turning to face the elders. "The case seven years ago was riddled with holes. But no one investigated."
"Now, I will reopen it."
"Kayden, you..." Drake stammered. "Do you know what you're saying?"
"Perfectly clear." Kayden shrugged. When he deliberately played the rogue, it somehow eased my tension. "Ella Ross is indeed Layla Gray. But she's not a murderer. I'll stake my position as Alpha on it."
"What?!"
All the elders cried out. Victoria froze, too.
I...
I couldn't believe my ears.
What did he say?
He'd stake his position as Alpha?
For me?
"Kayden Blackwood." Drake's voice trembled. He struck his cane hard against the ground. "Do you know what this means?"
"If she really is the killer..."
"Then I'll resign as Alpha," Kayden said calmly, as if the Alpha position were some cheap clearance item. "My word is my bond."
"I believe she's innocent." He turned to me, smiled reassuringly, and extended his hand before everyone. "I believe the truth isn't what we saw."
I stood frozen, my mind replaying how Kayden had just casually tossed aside the Alpha position he once took such pride in.
I looked at that hand—broad, strong. I knew its warmth.
I had no reason to refuse. No matter who others thought I was.
I placed my hand in his without shame. Kayden gripped it tight and pulled me to his side.
"Also." He took Kai from my arms with his other hand and cradled him. Kai was fully awake now, staring wide-eyed at all these people, and clutched Kayden's shirt nervously.
"This is my son, Kai," Kayden announced. "Heir to Silver Moon Pack."
Kai blushed under so many stares and burrowed into Kayden's chest. But those eyes... silver eyes identical to Kayden's, undeniable in the sunlight.
"Moon Goddess..." an elder gasped. "Truly the Alpha's bloodline..."
"When did the Alpha have a child?"
"This..." another elder stuttered, looking ready to faint from the shock.
"So, Victoria." Kayden's smile was faint as he looked at her. "Understand now? Layla is my fated mate. We've restored our bond. My Luna will only be her. My heir is already six years old."
"You..." His voice went cold. "Can give up your delusions."
Victoria's face went white. She shook her head in disbelief.
"You're insane..." Her voice trembled as she pointed at Kayden. "Kayden, you've truly lost your mind. What about your father's dying wish? He made you promise to marry me, to stay away from your fated mate... You promised! You swore it!"
