Chapter 24

Author’s POV Lyra gingerly touched the livid bruise blooming across her cheekbone. Fury warred with humiliation. "Mother," she hissed, her voice tight with pain and indignation, "what now?" Selene’s mind raced. Darius’s frantic warning pulsed in her ears: Lucian McAllister backs Dorothy. The name alone was a thunderclap. Lucian wasn't just wealthy; he was an Alpha Prime. His favor was law. But doubt gnawed at Selene. "Would an Alpha truly risk a challenge over a discarded mate?" Selene murmured, more to herself than Lyra. "Dorothy… she’s nothing. A fleeting distraction. A convenience." The thought solidified her resolve. Alphas collected mates like trophies; their interest was fierce but often fleeting. Lyra clung to her mother’s arm, claws unconsciously pricking the fabric. "I won’t crawl to her, Mother. Never." The image of Dorothy – meek, submissive Dorothy – holding such power was an abomination. "Nor will I demand it," Selene stated. She met Lyra’s furious gaze. "Bowing to Dorothy