Chase doesn't flinch. "Alpha Ragon Charles?"
Ragon's jaw flexes. "Yes."
Chase nods once. "Investigator Calder. I'm leading the inquiry into the zoo incident."
My throat tightens.
"And the report Jasper filed regarding Vee's punishment following."
The wordpunishmentmakes my stomach twist hard.
My hands curl into fists at my sides.
Ragon's head turns just slightly, his gaze flicking toward me. Our eyes meet. For a split second, the rigid alpha mask cracks and I see something raw underneath.
Concern.
Not for himself.
For me.
Ragon turns back to Chase, voice controlled. "This can be handled at the registry. Not here."
Chase shakes his head firmly. "We prefer to conduct these investigations in the homes of those involved."
Ragon's nostrils flare. "Why?"
"Because it reduces intimidation. The registry atmosphere tends to frighten omegas and we try to avoid that."
Ragon's posture stiffens. "My omegas are not—"
"Omegas are often intimidated by official surroundings," Chase interrupts smoothly. "Especially when the environment has historically impacted their lives. I've been through Verena's file top to bottom and I'm aware she has a long history with the registry. I'm sure she'd prefer to avoid being forced back there for this."
The words sound like a quiet accusation.
I feel heat creep up my neck.
Ragon's jaw tightens again. But he doesn't snap. He's too aware of what these men represent.
Eli shifts slightly, bracing for conflict while trying to stay calm.
"Then she doesn't have to come," Ragon says tightly. "I'm the one you want to consult with, not her."
Chase's eyes flick to me again.
This time, he holds my gaze.
"Omegas are allowed to be part of their own cases. They're people. Sometimes victims. They deserve a voice."
The room goes very still.
I feel like every breath I take is too loud.
A voice forms in my head—small, familiar, afraid.
Victim.
Is that what I am?
