It was the first time Leo had addressed Kane as Alpha instead of just using his name, and the significance wasn’t lost on anyone in the room. It was acknowledgment of hierarchy, yes, but also of genuine loyalty reestablished through the opportunity for redemption.

After everyone dispersed to their assigned tasks, Kane and I finally had a moment alone in his private quarters.

“You handled that well,” I said, settling onto the couch and pulling him down beside me. “The thing with Leo. The ...