Elena’s POV

The butler stood beside Elder Hayes, his posture respectful yet uneasy.

“Didn’t we already withdraw the people watching her?” he asked cautiously. “She didn’t try to get pregnant, nor did she deliberately approach Alpha Damien.”

Elder Hayes gave a cold snort, fingers tightening slightly around his teacup.

“Damien is my son,” he said flatly. “I know him. He lied.”

The butler immediately lowered his head. After a brief pause, he hesitated, then spoke ...