Elin’s POV

The afternoon sun slanted lazily into the villa’s tea room, where Fiona and I sat across from each other, a delicate tea set and fresh scones laid out on the table. The aroma of Wendsor’s brewed black tea filled the air, weaving a rare thread of peace. Mom stirred her spoon, smiling. “Elin, this tea’s divine. Aaron’s villa—truly an Alpha’s taste.”

I smiled back, taking a sip. Last night’s long talk with her had loosened the knot in my chest a bit. Voicing the ...