CHAPTER NINE

Michael's POV:

I stormed into Vincent's office, my anger boiling over. "Who do you think you are, attacking my mate?" I demanded, my voice low and threatening.

Vincent's eyes widened, and he took a step back, his fist clenched. "I don't know what you're talking about, Michael."

"Don't play dumb, Vincent. Gabriel told me everything. I want to know why that girl attacked Ruth, and I want her punished. Now."

Vincent's expression changed from anger to fear, and he nodded hastily. "I'll find out, Michael. I promise."

I turned to leave, my mind racing with thoughts of Ruth and the pain she had endured. I couldn't shake off the image of her battered and bruised, her spirit broken. But I knew she was a fighter, and that thought made me smile.

I decided to distract myself with work, but my mind kept wandering back to Ruth. I couldn't concentrate, and finally, I gave up and picked up my phone to call my aunt, Michelle.

As soon as she answered, I knew I was in for a lively conversation. "Hello,