Chapter 247

DEREK'S POV “What do you mean?” I asked, my frown deepening. Kael shifted, his eyes narrowing as though the weight of his thoughts was clawing at him. “Think about it,” he pressed, his voice low but sharp. “Didn’t you hear what she said? Asking for her price?” His jaw tightened, his lips curling back slightly as a growl rumbled in his chest. “As if she’s some—” He cut himself off abruptly, snapping his mouth shut, but the word he didn’t say hung heavy in the air. I didn’t need him to finish. I knew exactly what he meant, and the very thought made fury course hot through my veins. My fists clenched at my sides, nails digging into my palms. I wouldn’t tolerate it. Not whispered rumors, not veiled insults—nothing. I wouldn’t even allow someone to speak that word about her in my presence. Aurelia was many things—fragile, reckless, stubborn at times—but she was not that. “Why would anyone do that to their Alpha’s daughter?” Kael demanded, his voice roughened with disbelief. “Aurelia doesn’t