“So you never intended to marry her?” another Alpha asked.
“Why would I?” Xavier replied casually, arrogance thick in his tone. “She’s useful leverage. Her pack is wealthy, and I needed funding for Stormvale’s expansion.”
More laughter erupted.
My heart shattered.
Through the slight gap in the partially open door, I caught sight of the room. Victoria sat comfortably on Xavier’s lap, her hands sliding across his chest as she pressed kisses along his collarbone. None of the other Alphas seemed surprised.
I bit my lip until I tasted blood.
Victoria’s voice purred softly. “So what happens now, darling? I heard Brielle told her parents to stop sending money.”
Xavier smirked. “If she still wants to eat and live comfortably here, she’ll change her mind soon enough. I’m not spending a single coin to support her stay in my pack.”
Cruel laughter followed.
Something inside me broke.
I pressed my trembling hand against my chest as tears slipped down my cheeks. My wolf howled in anguish—hurt, humiliation, rage all tangled together. Every word I heard felt like another blade carving into me. The love I had clung to, the loyalty I had protected despite everything, suddenly felt painfully foolish.