Sonya’s grin was a mix of smug satisfaction and silent challenge. She turned to my mate, speaking softly and sweetly. “It’s fine, Alpha. Kristen didn’t mean what she said.”
Craig’s eyes filled with pity as he looked back at her. “You’re too kind. Even though you’ve always been nice to her, she’s never accepted you as her sister.”
Then his gaze chilled as it locked on me. “Anyone who harms Sonya will pay dearly.”
His meaning was clear—he wanted me to suffer. He motioned to the guards, who stepped forward and forced me down onto my knees. As I bowed my head in submission, Craig’s lips curled into a satisfied, almost cruel smile. One of the guards raised his hand, ready to strike.
But Sonya intervened just then. “Alpha, she’s still my sister. I’m worried the guards might hurt her too badly. If anyone should punish her, it should be me.”
Craig nodded approvingly at that. Sonya lifted her hand and slapped me twice across the cheek, her nails digging into my skin, leaving sharp, burning lines.
She glanced at Craig, conflicted. “Alpha, I hurt Kristen. What should I do now?”
Craig’s reply was icy and dismissive. “She had it coming. You’re too soft, worrying about her after she hurt you first.”