I have to know. This is the worst possible time, but if there’s a risk toward my mate and our pack, it’s important I’m aware. I’d rather be angry now than regretful later.
The silence ticks on as seconds pass, and I realize the answer with growing dread.
“Who did you tell, Knox?” I command, voice dark and low as I resist the temptation to give into my blinding anger.
His head hangs low, body starting to shake slightly.
“Knox,” I snap when he refuses to answer, taking no pleasure in the uncharacteristic whimper that emerges from him.
“I’m sorry, Alpha,” he murmurs. “I told Beta Isaiah.”
“You seem stressed, darling.”
Despite everything in me that compels my existence to flee back to Shadow Creek, I push on. It’s killing me.
I try to hide it, but, unfortunately, a mother always knows.
“It’s nothing,” I tell her, offering a smile. “We’re just glad to be here with you.”
I look over at Beau, noticing that he hasn’t touched the food she’s placed in front of us. That’s a telling sign.
He gives me a puzzled look, clearly picking up on my vibe as well.
I haven’t relayed the information to anyone yet. I’m not sure how, to be honest.
It took my entire strength not to tear Knox apart limb from limb, a thought I never imagined I would feel toward my Beta. He’s supposed to be one of the few I trust with my life. This feels like the ultimate betrayal, even though he tried to assure me he didn’t know about the Seventh Circle’s involvement in this whole situation.
Like Alphas, it’s no secret that Betas often communicate. Networking is a huge part of our roles, ensuring we know everything about everyone at all times. Unfortunately, while Betas have much better control than most other wolves, they aren’t as skilled as we are. It can be easy to lose yourself in a moment of frustration, venting about concerns like any regular person would about their job.
But this isn’t just a job. This is everything.
You should never give up information about your pack to another. Even if you believe it’s something minor, you never know what they might do with it. This is the perfect example of that.
None of us could have prepared for the truth about Nyx and how she ties into the Great War. Yet, one minor comment fueled by annoyance and suddenly it’s clear why Orson and his pack were not surprised by our admission that Nyx was mated to all of us.
Alphas have somewhat turned a blind eye about the Betas speaking because frankly, it can be beneficial. For example, Orson was probably thrilled with Isaiah’s information. Any of us would have been too.
Except we’re on the other foot here.
Knox fucked up. Big time.
We thought by declaring Nyx as our joint mate it would show unity toward our packs, hoping it would scare them into backing off. But they already knew—and clearly, that’s why they had started attacking us in secret.
No longer are we a united front. We're a target.
Orson viewed us as a package deal—knowing that if he can somehow take out Nyx, it’s a three for one victory. Four, if Daxton involves himself which is a given.
“It’s a terrible situation,” Mom sighs, picking up her coffee mug. “But all of us have your back, Lex. Your father would be proud of the Alpha you are.”
I smile tightly at her. “I miss him every day.”
“Me too,” she says gently. “But you were born for this.” Turning to Beau, she softens her gaze. “Both of you.”
Beau nods. He’s never been fazed about his position. I remember him laughing when he told me Nyx had called himthe spareduring our early days in Shadow Creek.
He likes being in his position. High up enough to be in the know and assist with decisions, but able to have a somewhat normal existence. It’s the perfect mix for him.
“I can’t wait for you to meet our mates,” Beau mutters, a touch of happiness returning as he thinks about Lena. “They are both wonderful wolves.”
