Chapter 48: Betrayal and Confrontation

It was a long journey home. Nalani, Ralfi, and I barely spoke on the way, which only made it seem longer.

Upon our arrival back at the pack house, I feign illness, forcing myself to look as pathetic as possible.

It isn't that hard. All I have to do is remember Aurora's anger. The pain ensures I don't have to do much acting at all.

"Sir," Ralfi asks, showing uncharacteristic concern. "Would you like me to get you anytime? Medicine of some sort?"

"No, Ralfi, I'm fine. You're dismissed for the evening."

Ralfi nods, then walks away, leaving Nalani and I alone in the foyer.

"But Evander," Nalani pouts. "You're not fine. Look at you! Sick and trembling. You need help."

"I don't want you to get sick too," I say. "I'd feel even more awful if you caught whatever this is. Really, I can take care of myself."

"I'm sure you can," she now purrs. "But I want to be the one who takes care of you."

"I know," I say. I also know there are many ways to interrupt what she just said. "Honestly, I just want